Lincoln Electric 11776 User manual

Operator’s Manual
FLEXTEC TM 450 CE
Register your machine:
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Authorized Service and Distributor Locator:
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IM10091-A | Issue Date Jun-15
© Lincoln Global, Inc. All Rights Reserved.
For use with machines having Code Numbers:
11776, 11942
Save for future reference
Date Purchased
Code: (ex: 10859)
Serial: (ex: U1060512345)

THANK YOU FOR SELECTING
A QUALITY PRODUCT BY
LINCOLN ELECTRIC.
PLEASE EXAMINE CARTON AND EQUIPMENT FOR
DAMAGE IMMEDIATELY
When this equipment is shipped, title passes to the purchaser
upon receipt by the carrier. Consequently, claims for material
damaged in shipment must be made by the purchaser against the
transportation company at the time the shipment is received.
SAFETY DEPENDS ON YOU
Lincoln arc welding and cutting equipment is designed and built
with safety in mind. However, your overall safety can be increased
by proper installation ... and thoughtful operation on your part.
DO NOT INSTALL, OPERATE OR REPAIR THIS EQUIPMENT
WITHOUT READING THIS MANUAL AND THE SAFETY
PRECAUTIONS CONTAINED THROUGHOUT. And, most importantly,
think before you act and be careful.
This statement appears where the information must be followed
exactly to avoid serious personal injury or loss of life.
This statement appears where the information must be followed
to avoid minor personal injury or damage to this equipment.
KEEP YOUR HEAD OUT OF THE FUMES.
DON’T get too close to the arc.
Use corrective lenses if necessary
to stay a reasonable distance
away from the arc.
READ and obey the Safety Data
Sheet (SDS) and the warning label
that appears on all containers of
welding materials.
USE ENOUGH VENTILATION or
exhaust at the arc, or both, to
keep the fumes and gases from
your breathing zone and the general area.
IN A LARGE ROOM OR OUTDOORS, natural ventilation may be
adequate if you keep your head out of the fumes (See below).
USE NATURAL DRAFTS or fans to keep the fumes away
from your face.
If you develop unusual symptoms, see your supervisor.
Perhaps the welding atmosphere and ventilation system
should be checked.
WEAR CORRECT EYE, EAR &
BODY PROTECTION
PROTECT your eyes and face with welding helmet
properly fitted and with proper grade of filter plate
(See ANSI Z49.1).
PROTECT your body from welding spatter and arc
flash with protective clothing including woolen
clothing, flame-proof apron and gloves, leather
leggings, and high boots.
PROTECT others from splatter, flash, and glare
with protective screens or barriers.
IN SOME AREAS, protection from noise may be appropriate.
BE SURE protective equipment is in good condition.
Also, wear safety glasses in work area
AT ALL TIMES.
SPECIAL SITUATIONS
DO NOT WELD OR CUT containers or materials which previously
had been in contact with hazardous substances unless they are
properly cleaned. This is extremely dangerous.
DO NOT WELD OR CUT painted or plated parts unless special
precautions with ventilation have been taken. They can release
highly toxic fumes or gases.
Additional precautionary measures
PROTECT compressed gas cylinders from excessive heat,
mechanical shocks, and arcs; fasten cylinders so they cannot fall.
BE SURE cylinders are never grounded or part of an
electrical circuit.
REMOVE all potential fire hazards from welding area.
ALWAYS HAVE FIRE FIGHTING EQUIPMENT READY FOR
IMMEDIATE USE AND KNOW HOW TO USE IT.
WARNING
CAUTION
Safety 01 of 04 - 5/16/2018

SECTION A:
WARNINGS
CALIFORNIA PROPOSITION 65 WARNINGS
WARNING: Breathing diesel engine exhaust
exposes you to chemicals known to the State
of California to cause cancer and birth defects,
or other reproductive harm.
• Always start and operate the engine in a
well-ventilated area.
• If in an exposed area, vent the exhaust to the outside.
• Do not modify or tamper with the exhaust system.
• Do not idle the engine except as necessary.
For more information go to
www.P65 warnings.ca.gov/diesel
WARNING: This product, when used for welding or
cutting, produces fumes or gases which contain
chemicals known to the State of California to cause
birth defects and, in some cases, cancer. (California
Health & Safety Code § 25249.5 et seq.)
WARNING: Cancer and Reproductive Harm
www.P65warnings.ca.gov
ARC WELDING CAN BE HAZARDOUS. PROTECT
YOURSELF AND OTHERS FROM POSSIBLE SERIOUS
INJURY OR DEATH. KEEP CHILDREN AWAY.
PACEMAKER WEARERS SHOULD CONSULT WITH
THEIR DOCTOR BEFORE OPERATING.
Read and understand the following safety highlights. For
additional safety information, it is strongly recommended
that you purchase a copy of “Safety in Welding & Cutting -
ANSI Standard Z49.1” from the American Welding Society,
P.O. Box 351040, Miami, Florida 33135 or CSA Standard
W117.2-1974. A Free copy of “Arc Welding Safety” booklet
E205 is available from the Lincoln Electric Company,
22801 St. Clair Avenue, Cleveland, Ohio 44117-1199.
BE SURE THAT ALL INSTALLATION, OPERATION,
MAINTENANCE AND REPAIR PROCEDURES ARE
PERFORMED ONLY BY QUALIFIED INDIVIDUALS.
FOR ENGINE POWERED
EQUIPMENT.
1.a. Turn the engine off before troubleshooting
and maintenance work unless the
maintenance work requires it to be running.
1.b. Operate engines in open, well-ventilated areas or vent the engine
exhaust fumes outdoors.
1.c. Do not add the fuel near an open flame welding
arc or when the engine is running. Stop the
engine and allow it to cool before refueling to
prevent spilled fuel from vaporizing on contact
with hot engine parts and igniting. Do not spill fuel when filling
tank. If fuel is spilled, wipe it up and do not start engine until
fumes have been eliminated.
1.d. Keep all equipment safety guards, covers
and devices in position and in good repair.
Keep hands, hair, clothing and tools away
from V-belts, gears, fans and all other
moving parts when starting, operating or
repairing equipment.
1.e. In some cases it may be necessary to remove safety guards to
perform required maintenance. Remove guards only when
necessary and replace them when the maintenance requiring
their removal is complete. Always use the greatest care when
working near moving parts.
1.f. Do not put your hands near the engine fan. Do not attempt to
override the governor or idler by pushing on the throttle control
rods while the engine is running.
1.g. To prevent accidentally starting gasoline engines while turning
the engine or welding generator during maintenance work,
disconnect the spark plug wires, distributor cap or magneto wire
as appropriate.
1.h. To avoid scalding, do not remove the radiator
pressure cap when the engine is hot.
ELECTRIC AND
MAGNETIC FIELDS MAY
BE DANGEROUS
2.a. Electric current flowing through any conductor
causes localized Electric and Magnetic Fields (EMF).
Welding current creates EMF fields around welding cables
and welding machines
2.b. EMF fields may interfere with some pacemakers, and
welders having a pacemaker should consult their physician
before welding.
2.c. Exposure to EMF fields in welding may have other health effects
which are now not known.
2.d. All welders should use the following procedures in order to
minimize exposure to EMF fields from the welding circuit:
2.d.1. Route the electrode and work cables together - Secure
them with tape when possible.
2.d.2. Never coil the electrode lead around your body.
2.d.3. Do not place your body between the electrode and work
cables. If the electrode cable is on your right side, the
work cable should also be on your right side.
2.d.4. Connect the work cable to the workpiece as close as pos-
sible to the area being welded.
2.d.5. Do not work next to welding power source.
SAFETY
Safety 02 of 04 - 5/16/2018

ELECTRIC SHOCK
CAN KILL.
3.a. The electrode and work (or ground) circuits are
electrically “hot” when the welder is on. Do
not touch these “hot” parts with your bare skin or wet clothing.
Wear dry, hole-free gloves to insulate hands.
3.b. Insulate yourself from work and ground using dry insulation.
Make certain the insulation is large enough to cover your full area
of physical contact with work and ground.
In addition to the normal safety precautions, if
welding must be performed under electrically
hazardous conditions (in damp locations or while
wearing wet clothing; on metal structures such as
floors, gratings or scaffolds; when in cramped
positions such as sitting, kneeling or lying, if there
is a high risk of unavoidable or accidental contact
with the workpiece or ground) use the following
equipment:
• Semiautomatic DC Constant Voltage (Wire) Welder.
• DC Manual (Stick) Welder.
• AC Welder with Reduced Voltage Control.
3.c. In semiautomatic or automatic wire welding, the electrode,
electrode reel, welding head, nozzle or semiautomatic welding
gun are also electrically “hot”.
3.d. Always be sure the work cable makes a good electrical
connection with the metal being welded. The connection should
be as close as possible to the area being welded.
3.e. Ground the work or metal to be welded to a good electrical (earth)
ground.
3.f. Maintain the electrode holder, work clamp, welding cable and
welding machine in good, safe operating condition. Replace
damaged insulation.
3.g. Never dip the electrode in water for cooling.
3.h. Never simultaneously touch electrically “hot” parts of electrode
holders connected to two welders because voltage
between the
two can be the total of the open circuit voltage of both
welders.
3.i. When working above floor level, use a safety belt to protect
yourself from a fall should you get a shock.
3.j. Also see Items 6.c. and 8.
ARC RAYS CAN BURN.
4.a. Use a shield with the proper filter and cover plates to protect your
eyes from sparks and the rays of the arc when welding or
observing open arc welding. Headshield and filter lens should
conform to ANSI Z87. I standards.
4.b. Use suitable clothing made from durable flame-resistant material
to protect your skin and that of your helpers from the arc rays.
4.c. Protect other nearby personnel with suitable, non-flammable
screening and/or warn them not to watch the arc nor expose
themselves to the arc rays or to hot spatter or metal.
FUMES AND GASES
CAN BE DANGEROUS.
5.a. Welding may produce fumes and gases
hazardous to health. Avoid breathing these
fumes and gases. When welding, keep your head out of the fume.
Use enough ventilation and/or exhaust at the arc to keep fumes
and gases away from the breathing zone. When welding
hardfacing (see instructions on container or SDS)
or on lead or cadmium plated steel and other
metals or coatings which produce highly toxic
fumes, keep exposure as low as possible and
within applicable OSHA PEL and ACGIH TLV limits
using local exhaust or mechanical ventilation
unless exposure assessments indicate otherwise.
In confined spaces or in some circumstances,
outdoors, a respirator may also be required.
Additional precautions are also required when
welding
on galvanized steel.
5. b. The operation of welding fume control equipment is affected by
various factors including proper use and positioning of the
equipment, maintenance of the equipment and the specific
welding procedure and application involved. Worker exposure
level should be checked upon installation and periodically
thereafter to be certain it is within applicable OSHA PEL and
ACGIH TLV limits.
5.c. Do not weld in locations near chlorinated hydrocarbon vapors
coming from degreasing, cleaning or spraying operations. The
heat and rays of the arc can react with solvent vapors to form
phosgene, a highly toxic gas, and other irritating products.
5.d. Shielding gases used for arc welding can displace air and
cause
injury or death. Always use enough ventilation, especially in
confined areas, to insure breathing air is safe.
5.e. Read and understand the manufacturer’s instructions for this
equipment and the consumables to be used, including the
Safety Data Sheet (SDS) and follow your employer’s safety
practices. SDS forms are available from your welding
distributor or from the manufacturer.
5.f. Also see item 1.b.
SAFETY
Safety 03 of 04 - 5/16/2018

WELDING AND CUTTING
SPARKS CAN CAUSE
FIRE OR EXPLOSION.
6.a. Remove fire hazards from the welding area. If
this is not possible, cover them to prevent the welding sparks
from starting a fire. Remember that welding sparks and hot
materials from welding can easily go through small cracks and
openings to adjacent areas. Avoid welding near hydraulic lines.
Have a fire extinguisher readily available.
6.b. Where compressed gases are to be used at the job site, special
precautions should be used to prevent hazardous situations.
Refer to “Safety in Welding and Cutting” (ANSI Standard Z49.1)
and the operating information for the equipment being used.
6.c. When not welding, make certain no part of the electrode circuit is
touching the work or ground. Accidental contact can cause
overheating and create a fire hazard.
6.d. Do not heat, cut or weld tanks, drums or containers until the
proper steps have been taken to insure that such procedures
will not cause flammable or toxic vapors from substances inside.
They can cause an explosion even though they have been
“cleaned”. For information, purchase “Recommended Safe
Practices for the Preparation for Welding and Cutting of
Containers and Piping That Have Held Hazardous Substances”,
AWS F4.1 from the American Welding Society
(see address above).
6.e. Vent hollow castings or containers before heating, cutting or
welding. They may explode.
6.f. Sparks and spatter are thrown from the welding arc. Wear oil free
protective garments such as leather gloves, heavy shirt, cuffless
trousers, high shoes and a cap over your hair. Wear ear plugs
when welding out of position or in confined places. Always wear
safety glasses with side shields when in a welding area.
6.g. Connect the work cable to the work as close to the welding area
as practical. Work cables connected to the building framework or
other locations away from the welding area increase the
possibility of the welding current passing through lifting chains,
crane cables or other alternate circuits. This can create fire
hazards or overheat lifting chains or cables until they fail.
6.h. Also see item 1.c.
6.I. Read and follow NFPA 51B “Standard for Fire Prevention During
Welding, Cutting and Other Hot Work”, available from NFPA, 1
Batterymarch Park, PO box 9101, Quincy, MA 022690-9101.
6.j. Do not use a welding power source for pipe thawing.
CYLINDER MAY EXPLODE IF
DAMAGED.
7.a. Use only compressed gas cylinders containing
the correct shielding gas for the process used
and properly operating regulators designed for
the gas and pressure used. All hoses, fittings,
etc. should be suitable for the application and
maintained in good condition.
7.b. Always keep cylinders in an upright position securely chained to
an undercarriage or fixed support.
7.c. Cylinders should be located:
• Away from areas where they may be struck or subjected
to physical damage.
• A safe distance from arc welding or cutting operations
and any other source of heat, sparks, or flame.
7.d. Never allow the electrode, electrode holder or any other
electrically “hot” parts to touch a cylinder.
7.e. Keep your head and face away from the cylinder valve outlet
when opening the cylinder valve.
7.f. Valve protection caps should always be in place and hand tight
except when the cylinder is in use or connected for use.
7.g. Read and follow the instructions on compressed gas cylinders,
associated equipment, and CGA publication P-l, “Precautions for
Safe Handling of Compressed Gases in Cylinders,” available from
the Compressed Gas Association, 14501 George Carter Way
Chantilly, VA 20151.
FOR ELECTRICALLY
POWERED EQUIPMENT.
8.a. Turn off input power using the disconnect
switch at the fuse box before working on
the equipment.
8.b. Install equipment in accordance with the U.S. National Electrical
Code, all local codes and the manufacturer’s recommendations.
8.c. Ground the equipment in accordance with the U.S. National
Electrical Code and the manufacturer’s recommendations.
Refer to
http://www.lincolnelectric.com/safety
for additional safety information.
SAFETY
Safety 04 of 04 - 5/16/2018

NOTES vv

vi vi
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Page
Installation .......................................................................................................Section A
Technical Specifications ........................................................................................A-1
Welding Process, Physical Dimensions ..........................................................A-2
Safety Precautions ..........................................................................................A-3
VRD™ (Voltage Reduction Device) ..............................................................................A-3
Select Suitable Location..................................................................................A-3
Lifting...............................................................................................................A-3
Stacking ..........................................................................................................A-3
Environmental Limitations ...............................................................................A-3
Input and Grounding Connections ..................................................................A-3
High Frequency Protection ....................................................................................A-3
Input Connection ............................................................................................A-4
Input Fuse and Supply Wire Considerations...................................................A-4
Cable Connections..........................................................................................A-5
Recommended Electrode and Work Cable for arc Welding ..................................A-6
Output Cable Guidelines .......................................................................................A-6
Connection Diagrams Flextec 450 to Wire Feeders ..............................A-7 thru A-10
________________________________________________________________________
Operation .........................................................................................................Section B
Safety Precautions ................................................................................................B-1
Graphic Symbols............................................................................................B-1, B-2
Product Description ..............................................................................................B-2
Duty Cycle .............................................................................................................B-2
Design Features ....................................................................................................B-2
Recommended Processes and Equipment ...........................................................B-3
Case Front Controls...............................................................................................B-4
Power-Up Sequence..............................................................................................B-5
Case Back Controls...............................................................................................B-5
Common Welding Procedures, Weld Controls and Displays..................B-5, thru B-8
_______________________________________________________________________
Accessories.....................................................................................................Section C
Options / Accessories............................................................................................C-1
________________________________________________________________________
Maintenance ....................................................................................................Section D
Safety Precautions ................................................................................................D-1
Visual Inspection ...................................................................................................D-1
Routine Maintenance ............................................................................................D-1
Periodic Maintenance............................................................................................D-1
________________________________________________________________________
Section E ..............................................................................................Troubleshooting
Safety Precautions.................................................................................................E-1
How to Use Troubleshooting Guide.......................................................................E-1
Troubleshooting Guide ..........................................................................................E-2
Error Codes ............................................................................................E-3 Thru E-5
________________________________________________________________________
Wiring Diagram and Dimension Print ..............................................................Section F
________________________________________________________________________
Parts List ....................................................................................................P-674 Series
________________________________________________________________________

FLEXTEC™ 450 CE
A-1
INSTALLATION
A-1
TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS - FLEXTEC™ 450 CE
RATED OUTPUT
POWER SOURCE-INPUT VOLTAGE AND CURRENT
Model
K3065-1
Duty Cycle
60% rating
100% rating
Volts at Rated Amperes
36.5V
34V
28V
26V
38V
36V
36.5V
34V
36.5V
34V
Amperes
450
400
450
400
450
400
450
400
450
400
Duty Cycle
60%
100%
60%
100%
60%
100%
60%
100%
60%
100%
Process
GMAW (CV)
GTAW (CC)
MMAW (CC)
FCAW-GS (CV)
FCAW-SS (CV)
Input Amperes
37 / 35 / 34
29 / 28 / 27
Idle Power
72 Watts
Max.
(fan on)
Power Factor @
Rated Output
95%
Input Voltage ± 10%
380 / 400 / 415 / 3 / 50 / 60
(1) Cord and Fuse Sizes based upon the U.S. National Electric Code and maximum output for 40°C (104°) ambient.
(2) Also called “inverse time” or “thermal/magnetic” circuit breakers; circuit breakers that have a delay in tripping action that decreases as the
magnitude of current increases.
VOLTAGE
50/60Hz
380/3/50
400/3/60
415/3/60
Maximum
Input
Amperes
42 A
40 A
39 A
4 CONDUCTOR
SOOW or similar Cord in 40°C(104°F) Ambient
8 AWG or 10mm2
Fuse (Super Lag) or
Breaker Size (2)
50
RECOMMENDED INPUT WIRE AND FUSE SIZES (1)

A-2
INSTALLATION
FLEXTEC™ 450 CE
A-2
PHYSICAL DIMENSIONS
TEMPERATURE RANGES
HEIGHT
18.80in (478mm)
MODEL
K3065-1
WIDTH
14.14in (359mm)
DEPTH
26.66in (677mm)
WEIGHT
130lbs (59kg)*
OPERATING TEMPERATURE RANGE
Environmentally Hardened: 14°F to 131°F (-10°C to 55°C
**
)
STORAGE TEMPERATURE RANGE
Environmentally Hardened: -40°F to 185°F (-40°C to 85°C)
PROCESS
GMAW (CV)
GTAW (CC)
MMAW (CC)
FCAW-GS (CV)
FCAW-SS (CV)
OUTPUT RANGE (AMPERES)
40-500
10-500
15-500
40-500
40-500
OCV (Uo)
60
24
35
60
60
OCV (Ur)
--
15
15
--
--
WELDING PROCESS
IP23 155º(F) Insulation Class
*Weight does not include input cord.
** Output De-rated at Temperatures above 40°C.

A-3
INSTALLATION
A-3
VRD™ (VOLTAGE REDUCTION DEVICE)
The VRD™ feature provides additional safety in the CC-
Stick mode. The VRD™ reduces the OCV (Open Circuit
Voltage) at the welding output terminals while not welding to
less than 35VDC.
The VRD™ requires that the welding cable connections be
kept in good electrical condition because poor connections
will contribute to poor starting. Having good electrical con-
nections also limits the possibility of other safety issues
such as heat-generated damage, burns and fires.
The machine is shipped with VRD™ “enabled”. The VRD™
function can be disabled or enabled via a dip switch on the
control P.C. board.
The control board and dip switch can be accessed by
removing the case top as shown in the Operation Section
figure B.3.
SELECT SUITABLE LOCATION
LOCATION AND VENTILATION FOR COOLING
Place the welder where clean cooling air can freely
circulate in through the rear louvers and out through
the case sides. Dirt, dust, or any foreign material that
can be drawn into the welder should be kept at a mini-
mum. Failure to observe these precautions can result
in excessive operating temperatures and nuisance
shutdowns.
TILTING
Place the machine directly on a secure, level surface
or on a recommended undercarriage. The machine
may topple over if this procedure is not followed.
SAFETY PRECAUTIONS
ELECTRIC SHOCK can kill.
ONLY QUALIFIED PERSONNEL
SHOULD PERFORM THIS INSTALLA-
TION.
• TURN OFF INPUT POWER TO THE POWER
SOURCE AT THE DISCONNECT SWITCH OR
FUSE BOX BEFORE WORKING ON THIS
EQUIPMENT. TURN OFF THE INPUT POWER
TO ANY OTHER EQUIPMENT CONNECTED TO
THE WELDING SYSTEM AT THE DISCONNECT
SWITCH OR FUSE BOX BEFORE WORKING ON
THE EQUIPMENT.
• DO NOT TOUCH ELECTRICALLY HOT PARTS.
•ALWAYS CONNECT THE FLEXTEC™ 450 CE
GROUNDING LUG (LOCATED INSIDE THE
RECONNECT INPUT ACCESS DOOR) TO A
PROPER SAFETY (EARTH) GROUND.
----------------------------------------------------------------------
WARNING
FLEXTEC™ 450 CE
LIFTING
Both handles should be used when lifting the FLEX-
TEC™ 450 CE. When using a crane or overhead
device a lifting strap should be connected to both han-
dles. Do not attempt to lift the FLEXTEC™ 450 CE
with accessories attached to it.
STACKING
The FLEXTEC™ 450 CE cannot be stacked.
ENVIRONMENTAL LIMITATIONS
The FLEXTEC™ 450 CE is IP23 rated for use in an
outdoor environment. The FLEXTEC™ 450 CE should
not be subjected to falling water during use nor should
any parts of it be submerged in water. Doing so may
cause improper operation as well as pose a safety
hazard. The best practice is to keep the machine in a
dry, sheltered area.
Do not mount the FLEXTEC™ 450 CE over com-
bustible surfaces. Where there is a combustible
surface directly under stationary or fixed electrical
equipment, that surface shall be covered with a
steel plate at least .060” (1.6mm) thick, which shall
extend not less than 5.90” (150mm) beyond the
equipment on all sides.
-----------------------------------------------------------------------
INPUT AND GROUNDING CONNECTIONS
MACHINE GROUNDING
The frame of the welder must be grounded.
A ground terminal marked with the symbol
shown is located inside the reconnect/input connec-
tion area for this purpose. See your local and national
electrical codes for proper grounding methods.
HIGH FREQUENCY PROTECTION
Locate the FLEXTEC™ 450 CE away from radio con-
trolled machinery. The normal operation of the FLEX-
TEC™ 450 CE may adversely affect the operation of
RF controlled equipment, which may result in bodily
injury or damage to the equipment.
CAUTION

A-4
INSTALLATION
A-4
INPUT CONNECTION
(See Figure A.1)
Use a three-phase supply line. A 1.40 inch (36 mm)
diameter access hole for the input supply is located
on the case back. Connect L1, L2, L3 and ground
according to the Input Supply Connection Diagram
decal located on the internal horizontal panel.
To access the reconnect/input supply connection
blocks, remove the 8 screws that secure the case top
of the welder and remove the case top.
INPUT FUSE AND SUPPLY WIRE
CONSIDERATIONS
Refer to Specification in this Installation Section for
recommended fuse, wire sizes and type of the copper
wires. Fuse the input circuit with the recommended
super lag fuse or delay type breakers (also called
"inverse time" or "thermal/magnetic" circuit breakers).
Choose input and grounding wire size according to
local or national electrical codes. Using input wire
sizes, fuses or circuit breakers smaller than recom-
mended may result in "nuisance" shut-offs from
welder inrush currents, even if the machine is not
being used at high currents.
ELECTRIC SHOCK can kill.
ONLY A QUALIFIED ELECTRICIAN
SHOULD CONNECT THE INPUT
LEADS TO THE FLEXTEC™ 450 CE.
CONNECTIONS SHOULD BE MADE IN ACCOR-
DANCE WITH ALL LOCAL AND NATIONAL
ELECTRICAL CODES AND THE CONNECTION
DIAGRAM LOCATED ON THE INSIDE OF THE
RECONNECT/INPUT ACCESS DOOR OF THE
MACHINE. FAILURE TO DO SO MAY RESULT
IN BODILY INJURY OR DEATH.
----------------------------------------------------------------------
WARNING
FLEXTEC™ 450 CE
FIGURE A-1
AMPS
340
375
400
450
VOLTS
34VDC
35VDC
36VDC
38VDC
TEMPERATURES
55°C
DUTY CYCLE
100%
60%
40%
20%
HIGH TEMPERATURE OPERATION
WELDER OUTPUT RATINGS AT 55°C
ELEVATED TEMPERATURES

A-5
INSTALLATION
A-5
FLEXTEC™ 450 CE
Pin
A
B
C
D
E
F
Wiring
77 Remote potentiometer, 5K
76 Remote potentiometer, wiper
75 Remote potentiometer, common
Trigger, common
Trigger, input
Ground
CABLE CONNECTIONS
See FIGURE A.2 for locating 6-pin and 14-pin con-
nectors on the front of the FLEXTEC™ 450 CE.
FIGURE A.2
Function
6-pin remote
control con-
nector for
remote or
hand/foot
amptrol.
6-PIN REMOTE CONTROL CONNECTOR
Pin
A
B
C
D
E
F
G
H
I
J
K
L
M
N
Wiring
Ground
Trigger, Common
Trigger input
77 Remote potentiometer, 5K
76 Remote potentiometer, wiper
75 Remote potentiometer, common
Voltage Sense (21)
Motor (42 VAC)
Motor (42 VAC)
Function
14 pin con-
nector for
wire feeder
connectivity.
14-PIN CONNECTOR FOR WIRE FEEDER

A-6
INSTALLATION
FLEXTEC™ 450 CE
A-6
RECOMMENDED ELECTRODE AND
WORK CABLE SIZES FOR ARC WELDING
General Guidelines
Connect the electrode and work cables between the
appropriate output studs of the FLEXTEC™ 450 CE
per the following guidelines:
• Most welding applications run with the electrode
being positive (+). For those applications, connect
the electrode cable between the wire drive feed
plate and the positive (+) output stud on the power
source. Connect a work lead from the negative (-)
power source output stud to the work piece.
• When negative electrode polarity is required, such
as in some Innershield applications, reverse the out-
put connections at the power source (electrode
cable to the negative (-) stud, and work cable to the
positive (+) stud).
The following recommendations apply to all output
polarities and weld modes:
• Select the appropriate size cables per the
“Output Cable Guidelines” (See Table A.1).
Excessive voltage drops caused by undersized
welding cables and poor connections often result in
unsatisfactory welding performance. Always use the
largest welding cables (electrode and work) that are
practical, and be sure all connections are clean and
tight.
Note: Excessive heat in the weld circuit indicates
undersized cables and/or bad connections.
•Route all cables directly to the work and wire
feeder, avoid excessive lengths and do not coil
excess cable. Route the electrode and work cables
in close proximity to one another to minimize the
loop area and therefore the inductance of the weld
circuit.
• Always weld in a direction away from the work
(ground) connection.
CONTROL CABLE CONNECTIONS
General Guidelines
Genuine Lincoln control cables should be used at all
times (except where noted otherwise). Lincoln cables
are specifically designed for the communication and
power needs of the FLEXTEC™ 450 CE. Most are
designed to be connected end to end for ease of
extension. Generally, it is recommended that the total
length not exceed 100 feet (30.5 m). The use of non-
standard cables, especially in lengths greater than 25
feet, can lead to communication problems (system
shutdowns), poor motor acceleration (poor arc start-
ing), and low wire driving force (wire feeding prob-
lems). Always use the shortest length of control cable
possible, and DO NOT coil excess cable.
Regarding cable placement, best results will be
obtained when control cables are routed separate
from the weld cables. This minimizes the possibility of
interference between the high currents flowing
through the weld cables, and the low level signals in
the control cables.
** Tabled values are for operation at ambient temperatures of 104°F(40°C) and below. Applications above 104°F(40°C) may require cables
larger than recommended, or cables rated higher than 167°F(75°C).
OUTPUT CABLE GUIDELINES
CABLE SIZES FOR COMBINED LENGTHS OF ELECTRODE AND WORK CABLES
(RUBBER COVERED COPPER - RATED 167°F or 75°C)**
AMPERES
200
200
250
250
250
250
300
300
350
400
400
500
PERCENT
DUTY
CYCLE
60
100
30
40
60
100
60
100
40
60
100
60
0 to 50Ft.
(0 to15m)
2
2
3
2
1
1
1
2/0
1/0
2/0
3/0
2/0
50 to 100Ft.
(15 to 30m)
2
2
3
2
1
1
1
2/0
1/0
2/0
3/0
2/0
100 to 150 Ft.
(30 to 46m)
2
2
2
1
1
1
1
2/0
2/0
2/0
3/0
3/0
150 to 200 Ft.
(46 to 61m)
1
1
1
1
1
1
1/0
2/0
2/0
3/0
3/0
3/0
200 to 250 Ft.
(61 to 76m)
1/0
1/0
1/0
1/0
1/0
1/0
2/0
3/0
3/0
4/0
4/0
4/0
TABLE A.1

A-7
INSTALLATION
FLEXTEC™ 450 CE
A-7
CONNECTING LF-72 AND LF-74 TO THE FLEXTEC™450
CONTROL SETTING
WELD MODE
WELD TERMINALS
REMOTE/LOCAL
VOLTMETER POLARITY
CV, CV-INNERSHIELD
OFF
LOCAL
(REMOTE IF K2329-1 INSTALLED)
PROCESS DEPENDENT

A-8
INSTALLATION
FLEXTEC™ 450 CE
A-8
LN-10,DH-10 CONTROL SWITCH
SETUP
Initial set up of the LN-10, DH-10 control for the sys-
tem components being used and for general operator
preferences is done using a pair of 8-pole DIP switch-
es located inside the LN-10, DH-10 control box.
Setup DIP Switch Access
1) Shut off the input power to the LN-10, DH-10 con-
trol by turning off the power at the welding power
source it is connected to.
2) Remove the two screws on the top of the LN-10,
DH-10 control box door and swing the door down
to open.
3) Locate the two 8-pole DIP switches, near the top
left corner of the LN-10, DH-10 Control P.C. board,
labeled S1 and S2.
4) Switch settings are only programmed during input
power-up restoration.
Setting the DIP Switches
The DIP switches are each labeled with an “ON”
arrow showing the on direction for each of the 8 indi-
vidual switches in each DIP switch (S1 and S2). The
functions of these switches are also labeled and set
as described below:
Pwr Sources
S1
ON
S1
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8
Head Pwr Sources
S1
ON
S1
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8
CONNECTING LN-10 AND DH-10 TO THE FLEXTEC™ 450
CONTROL SETTING
WELD MODE
WELD TERMINALS
REMOTE/LOCAL
VOLTMETER POLARITY
CV, CV-INNERSHIELD
OFF
REMOTE
PROCESS DEPENDENT

A-9
INSTALLATION
FLEXTEC™ 450 CE
A-9
CONNECTING LN-15(K1870-1) TO THE FLEXTEC™ 450
CONTROL SETTING
WELD MODE
WELD TERMINALS
REMOTE/LOCAL
VOLTMETER POLARITY
CV, CV-INNERSHIELD
OFF
LOCAL
PROCESS DEPENDENT
CONTROL SETTING
WELD MODE
WELD TERMINALS
REMOTE/LOCAL
VOLTMETER POLARITY
CV, CV-INNERSHIELD
OFF
REMOTE
PROCESS DEPENDENT
CONNECTING LN-15(K1871-1) TO THE FLEXTEC™ 450

A-10
INSTALLATION
FLEXTEC™ 450 CE
A-10
CONNECTING LN-25 PRO AND LN-25 PIPE TO THE FLEXTEC™ 450
CONTROL SETTING
WELD MODE
WELD TERMINALS
REMOTE/LOCAL
VOLTMETER POLARITY
CV, CV-INNERSHIELD
OFF
LOCAL
PROCESS DEPENDENT
CONTROL SETTING
WELD MODE
WELD TERMINALS
REMOTE/LOCAL
VOLTMETER POLARITY
CV, CV-INNERSHIELD
OFF
REMOTE
PROCESS DEPENDENT
CONNECTING LN-25 PRO DUAL POWER TO THE FLEXTEC™ 450
*CONTROL CABLE SETUP SHOWN. REFER TO LN-25 PRO CONNECTION DIAGRAM IF SETTING UP
"ACROSS-THE-ARC" FEEDER.

B-1
OPERATION
FLEXTEC™ 450 CE
B-1
SAFETY PRECAUTIONS
Read this entire section of operating instructions
before operating the machine.
ELECTRIC SHOCK can kill.
• Unless using cold feed feature, when
feeding with gun trigger, the
electrode and drive mechanism are
always electrically energized and
could remain energized several
seconds after the welding ceases.
• Do not touch electrically live parts or electrodes
with your skin or wet clothing.
• Insulate yourself from the work and ground.
• Always wear dry insulating gloves.
FUMES AND GASES can be
dangerous.
• Keep your head out of fumes.
• Use ventilation or exhaust to remove
fumes from breathing zone.
WELDING SPARKS can cause
fire or explosion.
• Keep flammable material away.
• Do not weld on containers that have
held combustibles.
ARC RAYS can burn.
• Wear eye, ear, and body protection.
Observe additional guidelines detailed in the
beginning of this manual.
WARNING
INPUT POWER
ON
OFF
HIGH TEMPERATURE
CIRCUIT BREAKER
WIRE FEEDER
POSITIVE OUTPUT
NEGATIVE OUTPUT
3 PHASE INVERTER
INPUT POWER
THREE PHASE
DIRECT CURRENT
GRAPHIC SYMBOLS THAT
APPEAR ON THIS MACHINE
OR IN THIS MANUAL

B-2
OPERATION
B-2
FLEXTEC™ 450 CE
PRODUCT DESCRIPTION
The FLEXTEC™ 450 CE is a multi-process CC/CV
DC inverter and is rated for 450 amps, 38 volts at a
60% duty cycle. The Flextec is intended for both fac-
tory and field operation. It comes in a compact,
rugged case that is designed for portability and out-
door use with an IP23 environmental rating. The user
interface of the FLEXTEC™ 450 CE is simple and
intuitive. Weld modes are selected by a 4 position
selector switch. Volts and Amps are displayed on an
easy to view LED display, and the amps and volts are
set by a large output control knob. A hot start toggle
selector switch and an arc control knob allow for finer
tuning of the welding arc. The FLEXTEC™ 450 CE
operates on 380V, 400V, or 415V 50hz or 60hz
power.
DUTY CYCLE
The FLEXTEC™ 450 CE is capable of welding at a
100% duty cycle (continuous welding) at 400 amps
rated output. The 60% rating is 450 amps base off of
a 10 minute cycle - 6 minutes on time and 4 minutes
off time. The maximum output of the machine is 500
amps.
The FLEXTEC™ 450 CE is also rated for Desert Duty,
elevated temperature operation, in a 55°C(131°F)
ambient. The machine is output de-rated for this
application.
DESIGN FEATURES
• Severe Duty Design for outdoor use (IP23 rating).
• Passive Power Factor Correction – reliably gives
95% power factor for lower installation costs.
• 89% Efficiency rating – reduces electrical utility
costs.
• Simple user interface - designed with the operator in
mind. Getting setup for the weld is several clicks
away and even the most novice welder can be confi-
dent he is setup properly.
• F.A.N. (fan as needed). Cooling fan runs when the
output is energized and for a 5 minute cool down
period after output is disabled.
• Thermal protection by thermostats with Thermal
Indicator LED.
• Error Codes display on LED screen for ease of trou-
ble shooting.
• Electronic over current protection.
• Input voltage misconnection protection.
• Utilizes digital signal processing and microprocessor
control.
• VRD™ Voltage Reduction Device - Enable this func-
tion for reduced OCV in CC modes for added safety.
OPEN CIRCUIT
VOLTAGE
INPUT VOLTAGE
OUTPUT VOLTAGE
INPUT CURRENT
OUTPUT CURRENT
PROTECTIVE
GROUND
WARNING or CAUTION
Explosion
Dangerous Voltage
Shock Hazard
GRAPHIC SYMBOLS THAT
APPEAR ON THIS MACHINE
OR IN THIS MANUAL
U0
U1
U2
I1
I2

B-3
OPERATION
B-3
RECOMMENDED PROCESSES AND
EQUIPMENT
RECOMMENDED PROCESSES
The Flextec™ 450 CE is designed for CC-MMAW,
CC-GTAW (lift tig), CV-GMAW, CV-FCAW-SS and
CV-FCAW-GS welding processes. CC- CAG (arc
gouging) is also supported in the MMAW mode.
PROCESS LIMITATIONS
The Flextec™ 450 CE is suitable only for the processes
listed.
EQUIPMENT LIMITATIONS
Operating Temperature Range is -10° C to + 55° C.
Output De-rated at Temperatures above 40°C.
FLEXTEC™ 450 CE
Note: The Flextec™ 450 CE is not compatible with 115V Wire Feeders.
K3065-1
K2327-5
K2149-1
K1842-10
3100211
Flextec™ 450 CE
LF-72 Bench Model
Work Lead Package
10 Ft. Weld Power Cable
Harris Regulator and gas hose
Basic Package
K857
K857-1
K870
K963-3
Remote Output Control (25 feet)
Remote Output Control (100 feet)
Foot Amptrol
Hand Amptrol
Common Optional Kits
All Models
LF-72
LF-74
LN-10
DH-10
LN-25 Pro
Compatible Wire Feeders
COMMON EQUIPMENT PACKAGES