CIGWELD TRANSarc 170i User manual

PFC
A-11876
170i
Service Manual
Revision: AA Issue Date: February 27, 2013 Manual No.: 0-5280
Operating Features:
TRANSARC
WELDING INVERTER

WE APPRECIATE YOUR BUSINESS!
Congratulations on your new Cigweld product. We are proud
to have you as our customer and will strive to provide you with
the best service and reliability in the industry. This product
is backed by our extensive warranty and world-wide service
network. To locate your nearest distributor or service provider call
[phone], or visit us on the web at www.cigweld.com.au
This Service Manual has been designed to instruct you on the correct
use and operation of your CIGWELD product. Your satisfaction with
this product and its safe operation is our ultimate concern. Therefore
please take the time to read the entire manual, especially the Safety
Precautions. They will help you to avoid potential hazards that may
exist when working with this product.
YOU ARE IN GOOD COMPANY!
The Brand of Choice for Contractors and Fabricators Worldwide.
CIGWELD is the Market Leading Brand of Arc Welding Products for
Victor Technologies International. We are a mainline supplier to major
welding industry sectors in the Asia Pacific and emerging global
markets including; Manufacturing, Construction, Mining, Automotive,
Engineering, Rural and DIY.
We distinguish ourselves from our competition through market-
leading, dependable products that have stood the test of time. We
pride ourselves on technical innovation, competitive prices, excellent
delivery, superior customer service and technical support, together
with excellence in sales and marketing expertise.
Above all, we are committed to develop technologically advanced
products to achieve a safer working environment for industry
operators.

!
WARNINGS
Read and understand this entire Manual and your employer’s safety practices before installing,
operating, or servicing the equipment.
While the information contained in this Manual represents the Manufacturer’s best judgement,
the Manufacturer assumes no liability for its use.
Operating Manual Number 0-5281 for:
Cigweld Transarc 170i Inverter Plant Part Number W1007170
Cigweld Transarc 170i Mine Spec Inverter Plant Part Number W1007171
Cigweld Transarc 170i Mine Spec Power Source (packed) Part Number W1007169
Published by:
CIGWELD Pty Ltd
71 Gower Street
Preston, Victoria, Australia, 3072
[phone] [phone]
www.cigweld.com.au
Copyright 2013 by
CIGWELD Pty Ltd.
All rights reserved.
Reproduction of this work, in whole or in part, without written permission of the
publisher is prohibited.
The publisher does not assume and hereby disclaims any liability to any party for any
loss or damage caused by any error or omission in this Manual, whether such error
results from negligence, accident, or any other cause.
Publication Date: February 27, 2013
Record the following information for Warranty purposes:
Where Purchased: ____________________________________
Purchase Date: ____________________________________
Equipment Serial #: ____________________________________

TABLE OF CONTENTS
SECTION 1:
ARC WELDING SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS AND WARNINGS..................................... 1-1
1.01 Arc Welding Hazards....................................................................................... 1-1
1.02 Principal Safety Standards.............................................................................. 1-5
1.03 Declaration of Conformity............................................................................... 1-6
1.04 Symbol Chart.................................................................................................. 1-7
1.05 Servicing Hazards ........................................................................................... 1-8
1.06 EMF Information........................................................................................... 1-10
SECTION 2:
INTRODUCTION ...................................................................................... 2-1
2.01 How to Use This Manual................................................................................. 2-1
2.02 Equipment Identification ................................................................................. 2-1
2.03 Receipt of Equipment...................................................................................... 2-1
2.04 Description ..................................................................................................... 2-1
2.05 Transportation Methods.................................................................................. 2-1
SECTION 3:
SAFETY AND INSTALLATION ....................................................................... 3-1
3.01 Duty Cycle....................................................................................................... 3-1
3.02 Specifications ................................................................................................. 3-2
3.03 Environment ................................................................................................... 3-3
3.04 Location.......................................................................................................... 3-3
3.05 High Frequency Introduction .......................................................................... 3-4
3.06 High Frequency Interference........................................................................... 3-4
3.07 Electromagnetic Compatibility ........................................................................ 3-4
SECTION 4:
INSTALLATION, OPERATION AND SETUP ........................................................ 4-1
4.01 Transarc 170i Power Source Controls, Indicators and Features...................... 4-1
3.07 Shielding Gas Regulator Operating Instructions (where supplied)................ 4-11
3.08 Setup for TIG (GTAW) Welding ..................................................................... 4-13
3.09 Foot Control Part No. W4015800 (Optional Accessory)................................ 4-14
3.10 Setup for Manual Arc (MMAW) Welding ..................................................... 4-16
SECTION 5:
THEORY OF OPERATION ............................................................................ 5-1
5.01 Inverter Design ............................................................................................... 5-1
SECTION 6:
TROUBLESHOOTING ................................................................................ 6-1
6.01 Basic Troubleshooting-Power Source Faults................................................... 6-1
6.02 Factory Reset Information .............................................................................. 6-2
6.03 Advanced Troubleshooting.............................................................................. 6-3
6.04 Test Equipment and Tools .............................................................................. 6-3
6.05 Visually Inspect............................................................................................... 6-3
6.06 Preliminary DC Bus measurement of the main inverter board ........................ 6-4
6.07 Preliminary check of the main inverter board ................................................. 6-5
6.08 Check main input rectifier ............................................................................... 6-6
6.09 DC Bus voltage measurement......................................................................... 6-7
6.10 PCB Connectors.............................................................................................. 6-8

TABLE OF CONTENTS
6.11 DIP switch settings, Control PCB.................................................................. 6-13
6.12 Calibration .................................................................................................... 6-14
6.13 Main Circuit Description ............................................................................... 6-16
6.14 Circuit Diagram............................................................................................. 6-17
SECTION 7:
DISASSEMBLY PROCEDURE ....................................................................... 7-1
7.01 Safety Precautions for Disassembly ............................................................... 7-1
7.02 Case Removal ................................................................................................. 7-1
7.03 Control PCB Removal ..................................................................................... 7-2
7.04 Solenoid Valve and Current Transformer Output Removal .............................. 7-3
7.05 Display PCB Removal ..................................................................................... 7-4
7.06 Front Panel assembly Removal ...................................................................... 7-5
7.07 Rear Panel Removal........................................................................................ 7-6
7.08 Base Panel Removal ....................................................................................... 7-7
SECTION 8:
ASSEMBLY PROCEDURES .......................................................................... 8-1
8.01 Installing Base Panel ...................................................................................... 8-1
8.02 Installing Rear Panel....................................................................................... 8-2
8.03 Installing Front Panel assembly ...................................................................... 8-3
8.04 Installing Display PCB..................................................................................... 8-4
8.05 Installing Solenoid Valve and Current Transformer Output ............................. 8-5
8.06 Installing Control PCB..................................................................................... 8-6
8.07 Installing Case ................................................................................................ 8-7
SECTION 9:
KEY SPARE PARTS................................................................................... 9-1
9.01 Power Source ................................................................................................. 9-1
9.02 TIG Torch W4014604 (where supplied) .......................................................... 9-2
9.03 Stick Electrode Holder with Trigger Switch 646761(where supplied).............. 9-3
CIGWELD - LIMITED WARRANTY TERMS
TERMS OF WARRANTY – January 2013
WARRANTY SCHEDULE – January 2013
GLOBAL CUSTOMER SERVICE CONTACT INFORMATION

TRANSARC 170i
Manual 0-5280 1-1 GENERAL INFORMATION
1.01 Arc Welding Hazards
WARNING
ELECTRIC SHOCK can kill.
Touching live electrical parts can cause
fatal shocks or severe burns. The electrode
and work circuit is electrically live when-
ever the output is on. The input power cir-
cuit and machine internal circuits are also
live when power is on. In semiautomatic
or automatic wire welding, the wire, wire
reel, drive roll housing, and all metal parts
touching the welding wire are electrically
live. Incorrectly installed or improperly
grounded equipment is a hazard.
1. Do not touch live electrical parts.
2. Wear dry, hole-free insulating gloves and body
protection.
3. Insulate yourself from work and ground using dry
insulating mats or covers.
4. Disconnect input power or stop engine before
installing or servicing this equipment. Lock input
power disconnect switch open, or remove line
fuses so power cannot be turned on acciden-
tally.
5. Properly install and ground this equipment accord-
ing to its Owner’s Manual and national, state, and
local codes.
6. Turn off all equipment when not in use. Disconnect
power to equipment if it will be left unattended or
out of service.
7. Use fully insulated electrode holders. Never dip
holder in water to cool it or lay it down on the
ground or the work surface. Do not touch holders
connected to two welding machines at the same
time or touch other people with the holder or
electrode.
8. Do not use worn, damaged, undersized, or poorly
spliced cables.
9. Do not wrap cables around your body.
10.Ground the workpiece to a good electrical (earth)
ground.
11.Do not touch electrode while in contact with the
work (ground) circuit.
12.Use only well-maintained equipment. Repair or
replace damaged parts at once.
13. In confined spaces or damp locations, do not use a
welder with AC output unless it is equipped with a
voltage reducer. Use equipment with DC output.
14.Wear a safety harness to prevent falling if working
above floor level.
15.Keep all panels and covers securely in place.
SECTION 1:
ARC WELDING SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS AND WARNINGS
!
WARNING
PROTECT YOURSELF AND OTHERS FROM POSSIBLE SERIOUS INJURY OR DEATH. KEEP CHILDREN
AWAY. PACEMAKER WEARERS KEEP AWAY UNTIL CONSULTING YOUR DOCTOR. DO NOT LOSE THESE
INSTRUCTIONS. READ OPERATING/INSTRUCTION MANUAL BEFORE INSTALLING, OPERATING OR
SERVICING THIS EQUIPMENT.
Welding products and welding processes can cause serious injury or death, or damage to other equipment or
property, if the operator does not strictly observe all safety rules and take precautionary actions.
Safe practices have developed from past experience in the use of welding and cutting. These practices must be
learned through study and training before using this equipment. Some of these practices apply to equipment
connected to power lines; other practices apply to engine driven equipment. Anyone not having extensive
training in welding and cutting practices should not attempt to weld.
Safe practices are outlined in the Australian Standard AS1674.2-2007 entitled: Safety in welding and allied
processes Part 2: Electrical. This publication and other guides to what you should learn before operating
this equipment are listed at the end of these safety precautions. HAVE ALL INSTALLATION, OPERATION,
MAINTENANCE, AND REPAIR WORK PERFORMED ONLY BY QUALIFIED PEOPLE.

TRANSARC 170i
GENERAL INFORMATION 1-2 Manual 0-5280
WARNING
ARC RAYS can burn eyes and skin; NOISE
can damage hearing.
Arc rays from the welding process produce
intense heat and strong ultraviolet rays
that can burn eyes and skin. Noise from
some processes can damage hearing.
1. Use a Welding Helmet or Welding Faceshield fitted
with a proper shade of filter (see ANSI Z49.1 and
AS 1674 listed in Safety Standards) to protect your
face and eyes when welding or watching.
2. Wear approved safety glasses. Side shields recom-
mended.
3. Use protective screens or barriers to protect others
from flash and glare; warn others not to watch the
arc.
4. Wear protective clothing made from durable,
flame-resistant material (wool and leather) and
foot protection.
5. Use approved ear plugs or ear muffs if noise level
is high.
6. Never wear contact lenses while welding.
Recommended Protective Filters for Electric Welding
Description of Process Approximate Range of
Welding Current in Amps
Minimum Shade Number of
Filter(s)
Manual Metal Arc Welding - covered
electrodes (MMAW)
Less than or equal to 100 8
100 to 200 10
200 to 300 11
300 to 400 12
Greater than 400 13
Gas Metal Arc Welding (GWAW)
(MIG) other than Aluminium and
Stainless Steel
Less than or equal to 150 10
150 to 250 11
250 to 300 12
300 to 400 13
Greater than 400 14
Gas Metal Arc Welding (GMAW)
(MIG) Aluminium and Stainless Steel
Less than or equal to 250 12
250 to 350 13
Gas Tungsten Arc Welding (GTAW)
(TIG)
Less than or equal to 100 10
100 to 200 11
200 to 250 12
250 to 350 13
Greater than 350 14
Flux-cored Arc Welding (FCAW) -with
or without shielding gas.
Less than or equal to 300 11
300 to 400 12
400 to 500 13
Greater than 500 14
Air - Arc Gouging Less than or equal to 400 12
Plasma - Arc Cutting
50 to 100 10
100 to 400 12
400 to 800 14
Plasma - Arc Spraying —15
Plasma - Arc Welding
Less than or equal to 20 8
20 to 100 10
100 to 400 12
400 to 800 14
Submerged - Arc Welding —2(5)
Resistance Welding —Safety Spectacles or eye
shield
Refer to standard AS/NZS 1338.1:1992 for comprehensive information regarding the above table.

TRANSARC 170i
Manual 0-5280 1-3 GENERAL INFORMATION
WARNING
FUMES AND GASES can be hazardous to
your health.
Welding produces fumes and gases.
Breathing these fumes and gases can be
hazardous to your health.
1. Keep your head out of the fumes. Do not breath
the fumes.
2. If inside, ventilate the area and/or use exhaust at
the arc to remove welding fumes and gases.
3. If ventilation is poor, use an approved air-supplied
respirator.
4. Read the Material Safety Data Sheets (MSDSs)
and the manufacturer’s instruction for metals,
consumables, coatings, and cleaners.
5. Work in a confined space only if it is well venti-
lated, or while wearing an air-supplied respirator.
Shielding gases used for welding can displace air
causing injury or death. Be sure the breathing air
is safe.
6. Do not weld in locations near degreasing, cleaning,
or spraying operations. The heat and rays of the
arc can react with vapours to form highly toxic
and irritating gases.
7. Do not weld on coated metals, such as galvanized,
lead, or cadmium plated steel, unless the coating
is removed from the weld area, the area is well
ventilated, and if necessary, while wearing an air-
supplied respirator. The coatings and any metals
containing these elements can give off toxic fumes
if welded.
WARNING
WELDING can cause fire or explosion.
Sparks and spatter fly off from the welding
arc. The flying sparks and hot metal, weld
spatter, hot workpiece, and hot equipment
can cause fires and burns. Accidental con-
tact of electrode or welding wire to metal
objects can cause sparks, overheating,
or fire.
1. Protect yourself and others from flying sparks and
hot metal.
2. Do not weld where flying sparks can strike flam-
mable material.
3. Remove all flammables within 35 ft (10.7 m) of the
welding arc. If this is not possible, tightly cover
them with approved covers.
4. Be alert that welding sparks and hot materials from
welding can easily go through small cracks and
openings to adjacent areas.
5. Watch for fire, and keep a fire extinguisher
nearby.
6. Be aware that welding on a ceiling, floor, bulkhead,
or partition can cause fire on the hidden side.
7. Do not weld on closed containers such as tanks
or drums.
8. Connect work cable to the work as close to the
welding area as practical to prevent welding cur-
rent from travelling long, possibly unknown paths
and causing electric shock and fire hazards.
9. Do not use welder to thaw frozen pipes.
10.Remove stick electrode from holder or cut off
welding wire at contact tip when not in use.
WARNING
FLYING SPARKS AND HOT METAL can
cause injury.
Chipping and grinding cause flying metal.
As welds cool, they can throw off slag.
1. Wear approved face shield or safety goggles. Side
shields recommended.
2. Wear proper body protection to protect skin.
WARNING
CYLINDERS can explode if damaged.
Shielding gas cylinders contain gas under
high pressure. If damaged, a cylinder can
explode. Since gas cylinders are normally
part of the welding process, be sure to
treat them carefully.
1. Protect compressed gas cylinders from excessive
heat, mechanical shocks, and arcs.
2. Install and secure cylinders in an upright position
by chaining them to a stationary support or equip-
ment cylinder rack to prevent falling or tipping.
3. Keep cylinders away from any welding or other
electrical circuits.
4. Never allow a welding electrode to touch any
cylinder.

TRANSARC 170i
GENERAL INFORMATION 1-4 Manual 0-5280
5. Use only correct shielding gas cylinders,
regulators, hoses, and fittings designed for the
specific application; maintain them and associated
parts in good condition.
6. Turn face away from valve outlet when opening
cylinder valve.
7. Keep protective cap in place over valve except
when cylinder is in use or connected for use.
8. Read and follow instructions on compressed
gas cylinders, associated equipment, and CGA
publication P-1 listed in Safety Standards.
WARNING
MOVING PARTS can cause injury.
Moving parts, such as fans, rotors, and belts can cut
fingers and hands and catch loose clothing.
1. Keep all doors, panels, covers, and guards closed
and securely in place.
2. Stop engine before installing or connecting unit.
3. Have only qualified people remove guards or
covers for maintenance and troubleshooting as
necessary.
4. To prevent accidental starting during servicing,
disconnect negative (-) battery cable from bat-
tery.
5. Keep hands, hair, loose clothing, and tools away
from moving parts.
6. Reinstall panels or guards and close doors when
servicing is finished and before starting engine.
!
WARNING
This product, when used for welding or
cutting, produces fumes or gases which
contain chemicals know to the State of
California to cause birth defects and, in
some cases, cancer. (California Health &
Safety code Sec. 25249.5 et seq.)
NOTE
Considerations About Welding And The
Effects of Low Frequency Electric and
Magnetic Fields
The following is a quotation from the General Con-
clusions Section of the U.S. Congress, Office of
Technology Assessment, Biological Effects of Power
Frequency Electric & Magnetic Fields - Background
Paper, OTA-BP-E-63 (Washington, DC: U.S. Govern-
ment Printing Office, May 1989): “...there is now
a very large volume of scientific findings based on
experiments at the cellular level and from studies
with animals and people which clearly establish that
low frequency magnetic fields and interact with, and
produce changes in, biological systems. While most
of this work is of very high quality, the results are
complex. Current scientific understanding does not
yet allow us to interpret the evidence in a single coher-
ent framework. Even more frustrating, it does not yet
allow us to draw definite conclusions about questions
of possible risk or to offer clear science-based advice
on strategies to minimize or avoid potential risks.”
To reduce magnetic fields in the workplace, use the
following procedures.
1. Keep cables close together by twisting or taping
them.
2. Arrange cables to one side and away from the
operator.
3. Do not coil or drape cable around the body.
4. Keep welding power source and cables as far away
from body as practical.
ABOUT PACEMAKERS:
The above procedures are among those
also normally recommended for pace-
maker wearers. Consult your doctor for
complete information.

TRANSARC 170i
Manual 0-5280 1-5 GENERAL INFORMATION
1.02 Principal Safety Standards
Safety in Welding and Cutting, ANSI Standard Z49.1, from American Welding Society, 550 N.W. LeJeune Rd.,
Miami, FL 33126.
Safety and Health Standards, OSHA 29 CFR 1910, from Superintendent of Documents, U.S. Government
Printing Office, Washington, D.C. 20402.
Recommended Safe Practices for the Preparation for Welding and Cutting of Containers That Have Held
Hazardous Substances, American Welding Society Standard AWS F4.1, from American Welding Society, 550
N.W. LeJeune Rd., Miami, FL 33126.
National Electrical Code, NFPA Standard 70, from National Fire Protection Association, Batterymarch Park,
Quincy, MA 02269.
Safe Handling of Compressed Gases in Cylinders, CGA Pamphlet P-1, from Compressed Gas Association,
1235 Jefferson Davis Highway, Suite 501, Arlington, VA 22202.
Code for Safety in Welding and Cutting, CSA Standard W117.2, from Canadian Standards Association, Stan-
dards Sales, 178 Rexdale Boulevard, Rexdale, Ontario, Canada M9W 1R3.
Safe Practices for Occupation and Educational Eye and Face Protection, ANSI Standard Z87.1, from American
National Standards Institute, 1430 Broadway, New York, NY 10018.
Cutting and Welding Processes, NFPA Standard 51B, from National Fire Protection Association, Batterymarch
Park, Quincy, MA 02269.
Safety in welding and allied processes Part 1: Fire Precautions, AS 1674.1-1997 from SAI Global Limited,
www.saiglobal.com.
Safety in welding and allied processes Part 2: Electrical, AS 1674.2-2007 from SAI Global Limited, www.
saiglobal.com.
Filters for eye protectors - Filters for protection against radiation generated in welding and allied operations
AS/NZS 1338.1:1992 from SAI Global Limited, www.saiglobal.com.

TRANSARC 170i
GENERAL INFORMATION 1-6 Manual 0-5280
1.03 Declaration of Conformity
Manufacturer: CIGWELD
Address: 71 Gower St, Preston
Victoria 3072
Australia
Description of equipment: Welding Equipment (GTAW, MMAW) including, but not limited to CIGWELD Transarc
130i Welding Inverter and associated accessories.
Serial numbers are unique with each individual piece of equipment and details description, parts used to
manufacture a unit and date of manufacture.
The equipment conforms to all applicable aspects and regulations of the ‘Low Voltage Directive’ (2006/95 EC)
and to the National legislation for the enforcement of the Directive.
National Standard and Technical Specifications
The product is designed and manufactured to a number of standards and technical requirements among them
are:
• IEC60974-10applicabletoIndustrialEquipment-genericemissionsandregulations.
• AS1674Safetyinweldingandalliedprocesses.
• AS60974.1/IEC60974-1applicabletoweldingequipmentandassociatedaccessories.
Extensive product design verification is conducted at the manufacturing facility as part of the routine design
and manufacturing process, to ensure the product is safe and performs as specified. Rigorous testing is in-
corporated into the manufacturing process to ensure the manufactured product meets or exceeds all design
specifications.
CIGWELD has been manufacturing and merchandising an extensive equipment range with superior performance,
ultra safe operation and world class quality for more than 30 years and will continue to achieve excellence.

TRANSARC 170i
Manual 0-5280 1-7 GENERAL INFORMATION
1.04 Symbol Chart
Note that only some of these symbols will appear on your model.
Gas Tungsten Arc
Welding (GTAW)
Air Carbon Arc
Cutting (CAC-A)
Constant Current
Constant Voltage
Or Constant Potential
High Temperature
Fault Indication
Arc Force
Touch Start (GTAW)
Variable Inductance
Voltage Input
Single Phase
Three Phase
Three Phase Static
Frequency Converter-
Transformer-Rectifier
Dangerous Voltage
Off
On
Panel/Local
Shielded Metal
Arc Welding (SMAW)
Gas Metal Arc
Welding (GMAW)
Increase/Decrease
Circuit Breaker
AC Auxiliary Power
Remote
Duty Cycle
Percentage
Amperage
Voltage
Hertz (cycles/sec)
Frequency
Negative
Positive
Direct Current (DC)
Protective Earth
(Ground)
Line
Line Connection
Auxiliary Power
Receptacle Rating-
Auxiliary Power
Art # A-04130_AB
115V 15A
t
t1
t2
%
X
IPM
MPM
t
V
Fuse
Wire Feed Function
Wire Feed Towards
Workpiece With
Output Voltage Off.
Preflow Time
Postflow Time
Spot Time
Spot Weld Mode
Continuous Weld
Mode
Press to initiate wirefeed and
welding, release to stop.
Purging Of Gas
Inches Per Minute
Meters Per Minute
Welding Gun
Burnback Time
Press and hold for preflow, release
to start arc. Press to stop arc, and
hold for preflow.
4 Step Trigger
Operation
2 Step Trigger
Operation
SSee Note
See Note
S
Note: For environments with increased hazard of electrical shock, Power Supplier bearing the mark conform to EN50192
when used in conjunction with hand torches with exposed tips, if equipped with properly installed standoff guides.
Cannot be disposed with household garbage.

TRANSARC 170i
GENERAL INFORMATION 1-8 Manual 0-5280
1.05 Servicing Hazards
!
WARNING
The symbols shown below are used
throughout this manual to call attention to
and identify possible hazards. When you
see the symbol, watch out, and follow the
related instructions to avoid the hazard.
Only qualified persons should test, main-
tain, and repair this unit.
Only qualified persons should test, main-
tain, and repair this unit.
WARNING
ELECTRIC SHOCK can kill.
• Donottouchliveelectricalparts.
• TurnOffweldingpowersourceandwirefeeder
and disconnect and lockout input power using
line disconnect switch, circuit breakers, or by
removing plug from receptacle, or stop engine
before servicing unless the procedure specifi-
cally requires an energized unit.
• Insulateyourselffromgroundbystandingor
working on dry insulating mats big enough to
prevent contact with the ground.
• Donotleaveliveunitunattended.
• Ifthisprocedurerequiresandenergizedunit,
have only personnel familiar with and following
standard safety practices do the job.
• When testing a live unit, use the one-hand
method. Do not put both hands inside unit. Keep
one hand free.
• Disconnect input power conductors from de-
energized supply line BEFORE moving a welding
power source.
SIGNIFICANT DC VOLTAGE exists after removal
of input power on inverters.
• TurnOffinverters,disconnectinputpower,and
discharge input capacitors according to instruc-
tions in Troubleshooting Section before touching
any parts.
WARNING
STATIC (ESD) can damage PC boards.
• PutongroundedwriststrapBEFOREhandling
boards or parts.
• Useproperstatic-proofbagsandboxestostore,
move, or ship PC boards.
WARNING
FIRE OR EXPLOSION hazard.
• Donotplaceuniton,over,ornearcombustible
surfaces.
• Donotserviceunitnearammables.
WARNING
FLYING METAL or DIRT can injure eyes.
• Wearsafety glasseswith sideshields orface
shield during servicing.
• Be careful not to short metal tools, parts, or
wires together during testing and servicing.
WARNING
HOT PARTS can cause sever burns.
• Donottouchhotpartsbarehanded.
• Allowcoolingperiodbeforeworkingonequip-
ment.
• To handle not parts, use proper tools and/or
wear heavy, insulated welding gloves and cloth-
ing to prevent burns.
WARNING
EXPLODING PARTS can cause injury.
• Failedpartscanexplodeorcauseotherpartsto
explode when power is applied to inverters.
• Alwayswearafaceshieldandlongsleeveswhen
servicing inverters.
WARNING
SHOCK HAZARD from testing.
• TurnOffweldingpowersourceandwirefeeder
or stop engine before making or changing meter
lead connections.
• Use at least one meter lead that has a self-
retaining spring clip such as an alligator clip.
• Readinstructionsfortestequipment.

TRANSARC 170i
Manual 0-5280 1-9 GENERAL INFORMATION
WARNING
FALLING UNIT can cause injury.
• Useliftingeyetoliftunitonly,NOTrunninggear,
gas cylinders, or any other accessories.
• Useequipmentofadequatecapacitytoliftand
support unit.
• Ifusingliftforkstomoveunit,besureforksare
long enough to extend beyond opposite side of
unit.
WARNING
MOVING PARTS can cause injury,
• Keepawayfrommovingpartssuchasfans.
• Keepawayfrompinchpointssuchasdriverolls.
• Have only qualified persons remove doors,
panels, covers, or guards for maintenance as
necessary.
• Keephands,hair,looseclothing,andtoolsaway
from moving parts.
• Reinstalldoors,panels,covers,orguardswhen
maintenance is finished and before reconnecting
input power.
WARNING
MAGNETIC FIELDS can affect Implanted
Medical Devices.
• Wearers of Pacemakers and other Implanted
Medical Devices should keep away from servic-
ing areas until consulting their doctor and the
device manufacturer.
WARNING
OVERUSE can cause OVERHEATING.
• Allowcoolingperiod;followrateddutycycle.
• Reduce current or reduce duty cycle before
starting to weld again.
• Donotblockorlterairowtounit.
WARNING
H.F. RADIATION can cause interference.
• High-frequency(H.F.)caninterferewithradio
navigation, safety services, computers, and
communications equipment.
• Haveonlyqualiedpersonsfamiliarwithelec-
tronic equipment install, test, and service H.F.
producing units.
• Theuserisresponsibleforhavingaqualied
electrician promptly correct any interference
problem resulting from the installation.
• IfnotiedbytheFCCaboutinterference,stop
using the equipment at once.
• Have the installation regularly checked and
maintained.
• Keephigh-frequencysourcedoorsandpanels
tightly shut, keep spark gaps at correct setting,
and use grounding and shielding to minimize
the possibility of interference.
!
WARNING
READ INSTRUCTIONS.
• UseTestingBooklet(PartNo.150853)when
servicing this unit.
• ConsulttheOwner’sManualforweldingsafety
precautions.
• Useonlygenuinereplacementpartsfromthe
manufacturer.

TRANSARC 170i
GENERAL INFORMATION 1-10 Manual 0-5280
1.06 EMF Information
Considerations About Welding And The Effects Of Low
Frequency Electric And Magnetic Fields
Welding current, as it flows through welding cables,
will cause electromagnetic fields. There has been
and still is some concern about such fields. However,
after examining more than 500 studies spanning 17
years of research, a special blue ribbon committee of
the National Research Council concluded that: “The
body of evidence, in the committee’s judgment, has
not demonstrated that exposure to power-frequency
electric and magnetic fields is a human-health hazard.”
However, studies are still going forth and evidence
continues to be examined. Until the final conclusions
of the research are reached, you may wish to minimize
your exposure to electromagnetic fields when welding
or cutting.
To reduce magnetic fields in the workplace, use the
following procedures:
1. Keep cables close together by twisting or taping
them, or using a cable cover.
2. Arrange cables to one side and away from the
operator.
3. Do not coil or drape cables around your body.
4. Keep welding power source and cables as far away
from operator as practical.
5. Connect work clamp to workpiece as close to the
weld as possible.
About Implanted Medical Devices:
Implanted Medical Device wearers should consult
their doctor and the device manufacturer before
performing or going near arc welding, spot welding,
gouging, plasma arc cutting, or induction heating
operations. If cleared by your doctor, then following
the above procedures is recommended.

MANUAL 0-5280 2-1 INTRODUCTION
TRANSARC 170i
SECTION 2:
INTRODUCTION
2.01 How to Use This Manual
To ensure safe operation, read the entire manual, includ-
ing the chapter on safety instructions and warnings.
Throughout this manual, the word WARNING, CAU-
TION and NOTE may appear. Pay particular attention to
the information provided under these headings. These
special annotations are easily recognized as follows:
!
WARNING
Gives information regarding possible per-
sonal injury. Warnings will be enclosed in a
box such as this.
CAUTION
Refers to possible equipment damage. Cau-
tions will be shown in bold type.
NOTE
Offers helpful information concerning certain
operating procedures. Notes will be shown
in italics
You will also notice icons from the safety section ap-
pearing throughout the manual. These are to advise you
of specific types of hazards or cautions related to the
portion of information that follows. Some may have
multiple hazards that apply and would look something
like this:
2.02 Equipment Identification
The unit’s identification number (specification or part
number), model, and serial number usually appear
on a nameplate attached to the machine. Equipment
which does not have a nameplate attached to the
machine is identified only by the specification or part
number printed on the shipping container. Record these
numbers for future reference.
2.03 Receipt of Equipment
When you receive the equipment, check it against the
invoice to make sure it is complete and inspect the
equipment for possible damage due to shipping. If there
is any damage, notify the carrier immediately to file a
claim. Furnish complete information concerning damage
claims or shipping errors to the location in your area
listed in the inside back cover of this manual. Include
all equipment identification numbers as described above
along with a full description of the parts in error.
Move the equipment to the installation site before
un-crating the unit. Use care to avoid damaging the
equipment when using bars, hammers, etc., to un-crate
the unit.
2.04 Description
The Cigweld Transarc 170i is a self contained single
phase multi process welding inverter that is capable of
performing MMAW (Stick) and GTAW (Lift TIG) weld-
ing processes. The unit is equipped with an integrated
voltage reduction device (VRD applicable in stick mode
only), digital amperage/voltage meter, and a host of
other features in order to fully satisfy the broad oper-
ating needs of the modern welding professional. The
unit is also fully compliant to Australian Standard AS
60974.1 and IEC 60974.1.
The Transarc 170i provides excellent welding perfor-
mance across a broad range of applications when used
with the correct welding consumables and procedures.
The following instructions detail how to correctly and
safely set up the machine and give guidelines on gaining
the best efficiency and quality from the Power Source.
Please read these instructions thoroughly before using
the unit.
2.05 Transportation Methods
!
Disconnect input power
conductors from de-energized supply line before
moving the welding power source.
Lift unit with handle on top of case. Use handcart or
similar device of adequate capacity. If using a fork
lift vehicle, secure the unit on a proper skid before
transporting.

INTRODUCTION 2- 2 Manual 0-5280
TRANSARC 170i
Notes

Manual 0-5280 3-1 Safety and Installation
TRANSARC 170i
SECTION 3:
SAFETY AND INSTALLATION
3.01 Duty Cycle
The rated duty cycle of a Welding Power Source, is a statement of the time it may be operated at its rated welding
current output without exceeding the temperature limits of the insulation of the component parts. To explain the 10
minute duty cycle period the following example is used. Suppose a Welding Power Source is designed to operate
at a 30% duty cycle, 170 amperes at 26.8 volts. This means that it has been designed and built to provide the
rated amperage (170A) for 3.0 minutes, i.e. arc welding time, out of every 10 minute period (30% of 10 minutes
is 3.0 minutes). During the other 7.0 minutes of the 10 minute period the Welding Power Source must idle and
be allowed to cool.
A-11712
Figure 2-1: Transarc 170i Duty Cycle

Safety and Installation 3-2 Manual 0-5280
TRANSARC 170i
3.02 Specifications
Description Transarc 170i
Plant Part No
Plant Part No(Mine Spec)
Power Source Part No(Mine Spec)
W1007170
W1007171
W1007169
Power Source Dimensions H324mmxW122mmxD458mm
Power Source Mass 11 KG
Cooling Fan Cooled
Welder Type Multi Process Inverter Power
Source
Australian Standard AS 60974.1-2006 / IEC 60974.1
Number of Phases Single Phase
Nominal Supply Voltage 240V ± 15%
Nominal Supply Frequency 50/60Hz
Welding Current Range 5-170A
Nominal DC Open Circuit Voltage (VRD
ON)
8V
Nominal DC Open Circuit Voltage (VRD
OFF)
66V
Factory Fitted Supply Plug Rating 15 Amps
Effective Input Current (I1eff ) refer Note
2
13 Amps
Maximum Input Current (I1max) 23.5 Amps
Minimum Single Phase Generator
Recommendation (refer Note 4)
6.6k W (8.5k VA at 0.8 PF)
STICK (MMAW) Welding Output, 40ºC,
10 min.
170A @ 30%, 26.8V
130A @ 60%, 25.2V
100A @ 100%, 24.0V
TIG (GTAW) Welding Output, 40ºC, 10
min.
170A @ 30%, 16.8V
130A @ 60%, 15.2V
100A @ 100%, 14.0V
Protection Class IP23S
Table 2-1: Transarc 170i Specifications
NOTE 1
Due to variations that can occur in manufactured products, claimed performance, voltages, ratings, all
capacities, measurements, dimensions and weights quoted are approximate only. Achievable capacities
and ratings in use and operation will depend upon correct installation, use, applications, maintenance
and service.
NOTE 2
The Effective Input Current should be used for the determination of cable size & supply requirements.