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General overview: The PowerTIG 315LX is an in-
dustrial class 315 Amp AC/DC TIG and DC Stick
welder. This unit features excellent duty cycle and
excellent arc performance due to its new Digital IGBT
inverter design.
A. Digital design takes advantage of reduced com-
ponents, and surface mounting of components
to improve service life and repairability.
B. Plug and Play design of many internal circuits
reduce unit down time in the event of failure and
improves diagnosis.
C. Employment of copper components in areas
where some manufacturers choose to use alu-
minum improves arc quality and stability.
D. HF point gap maintenance has been reduced
with the introduction of a new HF point design.
E. The digitally controlled square wave design cre-
ates a stable arc in AC, with a fast melting pud-
dle and good wet-in arc characteristics.
F. 240 single phase operation is rated for under 50
amps input.
General Use and Care: With proper care, the Power-
TIG 315LX’s digitally controlled inverter components
are designed to withstand years of use in many dif-
ferent welding environments. However, remember
to keep the unit out of direct contact with water
spray and corrosive areas. The unit has an ingress
rating of IP21S, for light dripping water
(condensation). It is a good idea to remove the
welder from the vicinity of any water or moisture
source to reduce the possibility of electrocution or
shock. Never operate in standing water or where
water spray is an issue. Every 1-2 months, depend-
ing upon use, the welder should be unplugged,
opened up and carefully cleaned with compressed
air. Regular maintenance will extend the life of the
unit. Metallic dust build up may lead to premature
board and component failure.
CAUTION: Before opening the unit for any reason,
make sure the unit has been unplugged for at least
10 minutes to allow time for the capacitors to fully
discharge. Severe shock and/or death can occur.
Free, unobstructed air flow is critical to cooling and
duty cycle. Do not restrict air flow or movement of
air around the welder. Allow a buffer distance of 2 ft
from all sides, with a minimum distance of 18” clear-
ance. Do not operate the welder in the immediate
vicinity of the weld area or the discharge of air from
the fan will cause turbulence and will destabilize the
arc and cause weld porosity. This welder generates a
huge volume of air to maintain its industrial level
duty cycle. Mounting on the same level as where
you are working can create problems with arc and
shielding gas disturbance.
Do not mount in areas that are prone to severe shock
or vibration. Do not drop the unit. Lift and carry the
welder by the handle. Strap the welder down for
maximum stability during use. Do not direct metallic
dust or any dirt toward the machine, particularly in
grinding and welding operations. Flip down the clear
front cover after completing adjustments and while in
operation to protect the control panel.
Duty Cycle. For the 315EX, the duty cycle is rated for
60% at 315 amps. The duty cycle is based off a 10
minute duty cycle rating at 40°C. This means that the
unit is capable of being operated at the stated amps
for 6 out of every 10 minutes without a break to cool
down the unit. This does NOT mean that the unit can
work 60% of any greater length of time. A full 4 mi-
nute rest should be given to the welder for maximum
life. The temperature light will come on and the weld-
er will automatically stop welding when an overheat
condition has occurred. The fan and display will re-
main on. Do not turn the unit off, or attempt to reset
the unit for at least 15 minutes after an overheat con-
dition has occurred since heat will continue to be
generated by and transferred to the electronics after
welding has ceased. Welding in humid or hot condi-
tions greater than 40°C can negatively affect duty cy-
cle. Once the overheated condition has cleared, weld-
ing can resume. Do not operate the welder with the
covers removed.
HF Start. The welder uses High Frequency to start
the arc. The heavy duty design of the point gap
mechanism features a new, improved design that re-
duces point gap adjustment issues and the related
maintenance needs. A bright blue light as may be
seen emanating from the front panel during starts.
This not a cause for concern. For best starts, con-
nect the work clamp directly to the work (part to be
welded). Unstable or inconsistent starts and low
power are often a result of poor work clamp connec-
tion. See the last page of this manual for point gap
adjustment information.
IMPORTANT:
This manual has been compiled to give an overview
of operation and is centered around safe, practical
operation of the welder. Any type of welding has in-
herent dangers. Do not operate this machine until you
have thoroughly read the manual, including the safety
section. If you do not have the skill or knowledge to
safely operate this welder, do not use this welder until
formal training or tutelage is received.
Section 1 Introduction and Specications