ESAB MTS 3500i, MTS 3500i Power Source User manual

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P/N 0558007140 - 208-230/460 Vac 3-phase, 230 Vac 1-phase, 60 Hz
P/N 0558007140F - 208-230/460 Vac 3-phase, 230 Vac 1-phase, 60 Hz, Bilingual
P/N 0558007141 - 575 Vac 3-phase, 60 Hz, Bilingual
P/N 0558007142 - 400/440 Vac 3-phase 50/60 Hz
P/N 0558009280 - 400/440v BRAZIL
Power Source
Instruction Manual (EN, FR, ES)
0558008058 06/2010
MTS 3500i
2
This equipment will perform in conformity with the description thereof contained in this manual and accompa-
nying labels and/or inserts when installed, operated, maintained and repaired in accordance with the instruc-
tions provided. This equipment must be checked periodically. Malfunctioning or poorly maintained equipment
should not be used. Parts that are broken, missing, worn, distorted or contaminated should be replaced imme-
diately. Should such repair or replacement become necessary, the manufacturer recommends that a telephone
or written request for service advice be made to the Authorized Distributor from whom it was purchased.
This equipment or any of its parts should not be altered without the prior written approval of the manufacturer.
The user of this equipment shall have the sole responsibility for any malfunction which results from improper
use, faulty maintenance, damage, improper repair or alteration by anyone other than the manufacturer or a ser-
vice facility designated by the manufacturer.
BE SURE THIS INFORMATION REACHES THE OPERATOR.
YOU CAN GET EXTRA COPIES THROUGH YOUR SUPPLIER.
These INSTRUCTIONS are for experienced operators. If you are not fully familiar with the
principles of operation and safe practices for arc welding and cutting equipment, we urge
you to read our booklet, “Precautions and Safe Practices for Arc Welding, Cutting, and
Gouging,Form 52-529. Do NOT permit untrained persons to install, operate, or maintain
this equipment. Do NOT attempt to install or operate this equipment until you have read
and fully understand these instructions. If you do not fully understand these instructions,
contact your supplier for further information. Be sure to read the Safety Precautions be-
fore installing or operating this equipment.
CAUTION
USER RESPONSIBILITY
READ AND UNDERSTAND THE INSTRUCTION MANUAL BEFORE INSTALLING OR OPERATING.
PROTECT YOURSELF AND OTHERS!
3
SECTION TITLE PAGE
SAFETY ........................................................................................................................................................ 5
SECTION 1 DESCRIPTION ........................................................................................................................................................................7
1.1 General ......................................................................................................................................................................................7
1.2 Scope .........................................................................................................................................................................................7
1.3 MTS 3500i Multi-Process .....................................................................................................................................................8
1.4 Package Ordering Information .........................................................................................................................................9
1.5 Optional Accessories ......................................................................................................................................................... 10
1.6 Duty Cycle ............................................................................................................................................................................. 11
1.7 Volt-Ampere Curves ........................................................................................................................................................... 11
SECTION 2 INSTALLATION ................................................................................................................................................................... 13
2.1 General ................................................................................................................................................................................... 13
2.2 Required Tools ..................................................................................................................................................................... 13
2.3 Unpacking and Placement .............................................................................................................................................. 13
2.4 Primary Input Connections ............................................................................................................................................. 14
2.4.1 Input Voltage Selection ....................................................................................................................................... 16
2.4.2 Fuse Replacement.................................................................................................................................................. 16
2.5 Secondary Output Connections ................................................................................................................................... 17
SECTION 3 OPERATION ......................................................................................................................................................................... 21
3.1 General ................................................................................................................................................................................... 21
3.2 Welding Controls / Indicators ........................................................................................................................................ 21
3.3 Typical Slope Settings ....................................................................................................................................................... 24
3.4 MIG / GMAW (CV) Operation .......................................................................................................................................... 24
3.5 TIG / GTAW (CC) Operation .............................................................................................................................................. 25
3.6 Stick / SMAW (CC) Operation .......................................................................................................................................... 26
SECTION 4 MAINTENANCE .................................................................................................................................................................. 79
4.1 General ................................................................................................................................................................................... 79
4.2 Inspection and Cleaning .................................................................................................................................................. 79
4.3 IGBT Handling ...................................................................................................................................................................... 79
4.4 Module Replacement ........................................................................................................................................................ 80
SECTION 5 TROUBLESHOOTING ........................................................................................................................ 81
5.1 Troubleshooting ................................................................................................................................................................. 81
5.2 List of help Codes ............................................................................................................................................................... 81
5.3 Functionality Check ........................................................................................................................................................... 82
SECTION 6 REPLACEMENT PARTS ...................................................................................................................... 83
6.1 General ................................................................................................................................................................................... 83
6.2 Ordering ................................................................................................................................................................................. 83
6.3 Torque Recommendations .............................................................................................................................................. 84
6.4 Control Board Assembly .................................................................................................................................................. 85
6.5 Parts List ................................................................................................................................................................................. 86
Diagrams .....................................................................................................................................................attached packet
TABLE OF CONTENTS
4
TABLE OF CONTENTS
5
SAFETY PRECAUTIONS
Safety Precautions
Users of ESAB welding and plasma cutting equipment have the ultimate responsibility for ensuring that
anyone who works on or near the equipment observes all the relevant safety precautions. Safety precautions
must meet the requirements that apply to this type of welding or plasma cutting equipment. The following
recommendations should be observed in addition to the standard regulations that apply to the workplace.
All work must be carried out by trained personnel well acquainted with the operation of the welding or plasma
cutting equipment. Incorrect operation of the equipment may lead to hazardous situations which can result in
injury to the operator and damage to the equipment.
1. Anyone who uses welding or plasma cutting equipment must be familiar with:
- its operation
- location of emergency stops
- its function
- relevant safety precautions
- welding and / or plasma cutting
2. The operator must ensure that:
- no unauthorized person stationed within the working area of the equipment when it is started up.
- no one is unprotected when the arc is struck.
3. The workplace must:
- be suitable for the purpose
- be free from drafts
4. Personal safety equipment:
- Always wear recommended personal safety equipment, such as safety glasses, ame proof
clothing, safety gloves.
- Do not wear loose tting items, such as scarves, bracelets, rings, etc., which could become
trapped or cause burns.
5. General precautions:
- Make sure the return cable is connected securely.
- Work on high voltage equipment may only be carried out by a qualied electrician.
- Appropriate re extinquishing equipment must be clearly marked and close at hand.
- Lubrication and maintenance must not be carried out on the equipment during operation.
The IP code indicates the enclosure class, i.e. the degree of protection against penetration by solid objects or
water. Protection is provided against touch with a nger, penetration of solid objects greater than 12mm and
against spraying water up to 60 degrees from vertical. Equipment marked IP23S may be stored, but is not in-
tended to be used outside during precipitation unless sheltered.
Enclosure Class
Maximum
Tilt Allowed
15°
CAUTION
If equipment is placed on a surface that
slopes more than 1, toppling over may oc-
cur. Personal injury and / or signicant dam-
age to equipment is possible.
6
SAFETY PRECAUTIONS
WELDING AND PLASMA CUTTING CAN BE INJURIOUS TO YOURSELF AND
OTHERS. TAKE PRECAUTIONS WHEN WELDING OR CUTTING. ASK FOR
YOUR EMPLOYER’S SAFETY PRACTICES WHICH SHOULD BE BASED ON
MANUFACTURERS’ HAZARD DATA.
ELECTRIC SHOCK - Can kill.
- Install and earth (ground) the welding or plasma cutting unit in accordance with applicable standards.
- Do not touch live electrical parts or electrodes with bare skin, wet gloves or wet clothing.
- Insulate yourself from earth and the workpiece.
- Ensure your working stance is safe.
FUMES AND GASES - Can be dangerous to health.
- Keep your head out of the fumes.
- Use ventilation, extraction at the arc, or both, to take fumes and gases away from your breathing zone
and the general area.
ARC RAYS - Can injure eyes and burn skin.
- Protect your eyes and body. Use the correct welding / plasma cutting screen and lter lens and wear
protective clothing.
- Protect bystanders with suitable screens or curtains.
FIRE HAZARD
- Sparks (spatter) can cause re. Make sure therefore that there are no inammable materials nearby.
NOISE - Excessive noise can damage hearing.
- Protect your ears. Use earmus or other hearing protection.
- Warn bystanders of the risk.
MALFUNCTION - Call for expert assistance in the event of malfunction.
READ AND UNDERSTAND THE INSTRUCTION MANUAL BEFORE INSTALLING OR OPERATING.
PROTECT YOURSELF AND OTHERS!
WARNING
This product is solely intended for plasma cutting. Any other
use may result in personal injury and / or equipment damage.
CAUTION
CAUTION
To avoid personal injury and/or equipment
damage, lift using method and attachment
points shown here.
7
1.1 General
The MTS 3500i X-Series® power source is a multi-process, fourth generation inverter power source that puts reliability and
ease of use into a powerful, versatile package. Refer to the following pages for descriptions of the available power sources
as well as performance specications.
1.2 Scope
The purpose of this manual is to provide the operator with all the information required to install and operate the MTS 3500i
Power Source. Technical reference material is also provided to assist in troubleshooting the welding package.
SECTION 1 DESCRIPTION
Designed for use with the following ESAB 42/115 VAC wire feeders:
Mig-4HD
Mig-4HD Dual
Mig-28A / ST-23A
Mig-35
Duradrive 4-30
Duradrive 4-48HD
Mobilefeed 200AVS
Mobilefeed 300AVS
Mobilemaster IV
8
1.3 MTS 3500i Power Source
The MTS 3500i is a high performance constant voltage (CV) and constant current (CC) inverter power source designed
to provide multi-process welding capabilities with dependability and ease of use. The MTS 3500i is a self-contained
unit which will produce power for Gas Metal Arc (MIG), Gas Tungsten Arc (TIG) and Shielded Metal Arc (Stick) welding
without the use of optional apparatus.
For MIG (CV) welding, the MTS 3500i supports welding a wide selection of ferrous and non-ferrous alloys by utilizing
Fixed Slope and inductance controls.
A special "Touch Tig" circuit eliminates the need for high frequency or "scratch" starting when using the TIG (CC) weld-
ing process. This feature provides smooth starts without contaminating the electrode or the work.
The Stick (CC) welding mode provides adequate open circuit voltage (70 V dc) for easy starts and re-starts as well as an
adjustable arc force which controls arc penetration and wetting action.
The "Auto Fan" feature operates the cooling fan only when the contactor is energized or when the internal tempera-
ture exceeds the safe operating level. During normal operation, the fan shuts down about 5 minutes after the contac-
tor disengages.
1 phase Input ................................................ 230 vac, 60 Hz, 44A
1 phase Output ..............225 amps @ 29v - 100% duty cycle
3 phase Input ................................230/460 vac, 60 Hz, 39/24 A
................................................400/440 vac, 50/60 Hz, 24/27 A
...................................................................... 575 vac, 60 Hz, 17 A
3 phase Output .................350 amps @ 34v - 60% duty cycle
Voltage requirements ..................................... 208V, -5%, +15%
Specications: MTS 3500i
Duty Cycle: The duty cycle refers to the time as a percentage of a ten-minute period that you can weld at a certain load
without overloading. The duty cycle is valid for 40 degrees C.
......................................................230, 400, 460, 575V, +/- 15%
........................................................................440V, - 15%, + 10%
Open Circuit Voltage (max) ................................................73 vdc
Dimensions ...................................................W = 11.5” (292 mm)
........................................................................H = 16.4” (417 mm)
........................................................................D = 29.8” (757 mm)
Weight .....................................................................101 lbs. (39 kg)
Note: The MTS 3500i may also operate from a 208 V pri-
mary input when 230 V input voltage is selected. However,
output is derated 10%.
SECTION 1 DESCRIPTION
9
1.4 Package Ordering Information
MTS 3500i Migmaster Packages
The following packages include an ESAB MTS 3500i 230/460 vac power source, wire feeder, control cable, gas hose,
.035/.045 in. (0.9/1.2mm) feed rolls, GunMaster gas-cooled gun, 15 ft. (4.5m) work cable with clamp, 15 ft. (4.5m)
wire feeder weld cable and R-33 regulator with adjustable owmeter unless otherwise noted.
Packages for Argon & Argon Mixed Shield Gases (R-33-FM-580)
MTS 3500i, Mig 4HD, GM-250cc-10ft. (3.0m) .........................................................................................................0558008345
MTS 3500i, Mig 4HD, GM-400cc-15ft. (4.5m) .........................................................................................................0558001472
MTS 3500i, Mig 4HD Dual, GM-400cc-15ft. (4.5m) ..............................................................................................0558007805
(Supplied with 2 each, Gunmaster 400, R-33FM580, and feeder weld cable)
MTS 3500i, Mig 35, GM-400cc-15ft. (4.5m) .............................................................................................................0558001473
Packages for CO2 Shield Gas (R-33-FM-320)
MTS 3500i, Mig-4HD, GM-400cc .................................................................................................................................0558001474
MTS 3500i, Mig-35, GM-400cc ....................................................................................................................................0558001475
Notes:
MIG-4HD kits have 8 ft. (2.4m) control cable and 9.5 ft. (3.7m) gas hose.
MIG-35 kits have 6 ft. (1.8m) control cable and 12.5 ft. (4.9m) gas hose.
MTS 3500i Migmaster DuraDrive Pulse Package
MTS 3500i, DuraDrive 4-30 Pulse, 60 ft. (18.3m) Control cable .......................................................................0558005373
(Gun, owmeter-regulator, gas hose, feeder welding cable and work cable must be ordered separately)
The components that are included in the MTS 3500i packages may be purchased separately by using the appropri-
ate P/N when placing orders.
Consoles:
MTS 3500i 230/460v ..........................................................................................................................................0558007140
MTS 3500i 230/460v Bilingual ......................................................................................................................0558007140F
MTS 3500i 575v Bilingual .................................................................................................................................0558007541
MTS 3500i 400/440v ..........................................................................................................................................0558007142
SECTION 1 DESCRIPTION
10
1.5 Optional Accessories:
HC-5 Hand Pendant Control 30 ft. (9.1 m) cable .........................................................................................................................P/N 34838
Provides remote control of Weld Process Selection (cv-Mig/cc-Tig/cc-Stick), Output Control (cc-amps/cv-volts), and Arc
Control (arc force-Stick/Inductance-Mig)
Ultra-Pulse 350 Mig Pulse Pendant Control ...............................................................................................................................P/N 36988
Easy-to-use synergic pulse Mig control. Simply select the desired wire type and diameter, set the wire feed speed and begin
welding. Twenty preset combinations include steel, stainless steel, aluminum and silicon bronze.
Note: MIG-4HD is required.
EAS-IV Electronic Tig Arc Starter and Plumbing Box .............................................................................................................P/N 34839
This high voltage arc starter is designed for DCSP (electrode negative) Tig applications where arc starting without the tungsten
electrode touching the work is required. The EAS-IV is also eective at eliminating problems associated with RF generating
arc starters or high frequency arc starters. The EAS-IV is rated 400 amps at 40% duty cycle and includes selection switch (Arc
Start/Touch Tig), gas solenoid, gas pre ow timer and gas postow timer, direct Tig torch connections, water inlet/outlet t-
tings, quick connector output connections, 4 ft. (1.2m) welding power input cables with male quick connectors, 8 ft. (2.4m)
control cable, carrying handle and remote control plug (14 pin).
Note: Remote contactor control (such as TC-2B, HC-3B or FC-5B/C) is required.
Tig Torches - 2-piece cable and hose assembly with Twist Lock Cable Connector for direct connection to the power
source.
HW-17V-2-TL, 12.5 ft ................................................................................................................................................................P/N 35857
HW-17V-2-TL, 25 ft ...................................................................................................................................................................P/N 35856
HW-26V-2-TL, 12.5 ft ...............................................................................................................................................................P/N 35858
FC-5B EHD Foot Control - 30 ft. (9.1 m) cable. ........................................................................................................................... P/N *33841
FC-5C Foot Control - 30 ft. (9.1 m) cable ....................................................................................................... ................. P/N *0558004234
TC-2B Torch Control - 25 ft. (7.5 m) cable. ................................................................................................................................... P/N *33839
TC-3A Torch Control - 30 ft. (9.1 m) cable, use with HW-9, 17, 20, 20A & 24. .................................................................. P/N *35783
TC-3A Torch Control - 30 ft. (9.1 m) cable, use with HW-18 & HW-26R .. .......................................................................... P/N *36680
*Note: FC-5 & TC-2 provide contactor and current control. TC-3 provides contactor control only.
Tig Accessory Kit - for HW-17, 18 or 26 ......................................................................................................... .............................. P/N 999126
Power Source to Feeder Cable, Lug w/ quick-connect 15 ft. (4.5m) ..................................................................................P/N 36254
Work Cable Assembly, Clamp w/ quick-connect 15 ft. (4.5m) ...............................................................................................P/N 36253
Stick Electrode Holder Assembly - 300A, 15 ft. (4.5m) ............................................................................................................P/N 21226
Inverter Cart (2 cylinder) for use with SVI 450i & 350 mpi ........................................................................................................P/N 31700
SECTION 1 DESCRIPTION
11
Figure 1-2. Volt-Ampere Characteristics and Duty Cycles
NOTE:
These measurements are made at the output terminals of the power source. Additional voltage "drops" will occur in the
welding cable, torch cable, and in the workpiece. The use of proper size welding cable and secure electrical connections
for the electrode and ground circuits will minimize these eects which adversely aect welding conditions and waste
electrical energy.
cv - MIG mode Volt-Amp Curve
F
M
S
DC Volts
AMPS
DC Volts
AMPS
Minimum
Maximum
Lift Arc Start
DC Volts
AMPS
Minimum
Maximum
Arc Force Range
Three Phase
Single Phase
Duty Cycle Chart
% Duty Cycle
Amps - rated output @ NEMA load line
1.6 Duty Cycle
The MTS 3500i power source will operate on a 60% duty cycle with a load of 350 amperes at 34 V dc (with 3-phase input).
Duty cycle is dened as the ratio of operating time to total time. Ratings are based on a 10-minute cycle. The 60% duty
cycle rating means that the 350 ampere, 34 volt rated load can be applied for a total of 6 minutes and shut o for a total of
4 minutes in a 10-minute period. If the welding current (or voltage) is reduced, the duty cycle increases. Conversely, if the
welding current (or voltage) is increased, the duty cycle will decrease. Refer to Figure 1-2.
1.7 Volt-Ampere Curves
Figure 1-2 illustrates the static volt-ampere characteristics for the power source in the MIG (CV), TIG (CC), and Stick (CC) modes.
The slant of these curves is referred to as the slope and is generally dened as the voltage drop per 100 amperes of current
rise. These curves show the output voltage available at any given output current between the minimum and maximum
settings of the output control. Values for other settings fall between the minimum and maximum curves.
SECTION 1 DESCRIPTION
13
Figure 2-1. Correct and Incorrect Lifting Techniques
INCORRECT! INCORRECT!
CORRECT!
A. Immediately upon receipt of the MTS 3500i, inspect for damage which may have occurred in transit. Notify the
carrier of any defects or damage at once.
B. After removing the components from the shipping container(s), check the container for any loose parts. Remove
all packing materials.
C. Check air passages of power source for any packing materials that may obstruct air ow through the power source.
D. If the equipment is not to be installed immediately, store it in a clean, dry, well-ventilated area.
E. The location of the power source should be carefully selected to ensure satisfactory and dependable service. Choose
a location relatively close to a properly fused source of electrical power.
F. The machine components are maintained at proper operating temperatures by forced air which is drawn through
the cabinet by the fan unit. For this reason, it is important that the machine be located in an open area where air
can circulate freely at front and rear openings. If space is at a premium, leave at least 1 foot (300 mm) of clearance
between the rear of the power source and wall or other obstruction. The area around the unit should be relatively
free of dust, fumes, and excessive heat. It is also desirable to locate the unit so the cover can be removed easily for
cleaning and maintenance.
2.1 General
This section provides detailed instructions for the proper installation of the MTS 3500i power source from initial receipt of
the equipment to output welding connections. It is recommended that these instructions be followed carefully to allow for
the best possible operating environment.
2.2 Required Tools
Some procedures require use of the following tools:
3/8" wrench, Phillips or Robertson, and a screwdriver. The use of socket wrenches or nutdrivers are recommended over
straight wrenches due to the location of attaching hardware.
When lifting the MTS 3500i, apply direct upward pressure to both of
the carrying handles. Do not transport the MTS 3500i with only one
handle or apply outward pressure to the handles. Do not lift the unit
by the handles with the cover removed. See Figure 2-1.
2.3 Unpacking and Placement
CAUTION
SECTION 2 INSTALLATION
CORRECT!
14
ELECTRIC SHOCK CAN KILL! PRECAUTIONARY MEASURES SHOULD
BE TAKEN TO PROVIDE MAXIMUM PROTECTION AGAINST ELECTRI
CAL SHOCK. BE SURE THAT ALL POWER IS OFF BY OPENING THE LINE
WALL DISCONNECT SWITCH AND BY UNPLUGGING THE POWER
CORD TO THE UNIT WHEN CONNECTIONS ARE MADE INSIDE OF THE
POWER SOURCE.
2.4 Primary Input Connections
The MTS 3500i consoles are equipped with approximately 10 ft. (3.0 m) of 4-conductor input power cable for 3
phase connection. If single-phase connection is desired, cap the unused wire on the input power cable per chart
below.
CUSTOMER FUSED LINE DISCONNECT SWITCH
(See Table 2-1)
PRIMARY INPUT
POWER CABLE
Figure 2-2. Input Connections
WARNING
STANDARD UNITS
(NON-CE)
CE UNITS
(EUROPE)
PHASE 3 1 PHASE 3 1
L1 White White L1 Brown Brown
L2 Black Black L2 Black -
L3 Red - L3 Gray Gray
GND Green Green GND Green/Yel Green/Yel
INSULATE UNUSED POWER CORD
CONDUCTOR WHEN CONNECTING
FOR SINGLE PHASE.
WARNING
SECTION 2 INSTALLATION
15
Before connecting to input power, make sure there is a line (wall) disconnect switch with fuses or circuit breakers
at the main power panel. You may either use the factory-installed input power cable [4/c, type SO (90 °C), 10 ft
(3.0 m) length] or provide your own input power leads. If you choose to provide your own, make sure they are
insulated copper conductors. You must have two (single-phase) or three (3 phase) power leads and one ground
wire. The wires may be heavy rubber covered cable or may be run in a solid or exible conduit. Ensure the
ground lead is suciently long inside the machine. In an event where the power cord is pulled from the machine,
the ground lead must not break from the ground connection before the power leads have broken from their
connection. Refer to Table 2-1 for recommended input conductors and line fuse sizes.
BEFORE MAKING ANY CONNECTIONS TO THE POWER SOURCE OUT
PUT TERMINALS, MAKE SURE THAT ALL PRIMARY INPUT POWER TO
THE POWER SOURCE IS DEENERGIZED OFF AT THE MAIN DISCON
NECT SWITCH AND THAT THE INPUT POWER CABLE IS UNPLUGGED.
THE CHASSIS MUST BE CONNECTED TO AN APPROVED ELECTRICAL
GROUND. FAILURE TO DO SO MAY RESULT IN ELECTRICAL SHOCK, SE
VERE BURNS OR DEATH.
WARNING
WARNING
WARNING
Table 2-1. (MTS 3500i)
Recommended Sizes For Input Conductors and Line Fuses
ELECTRIC SHOCK CAN KILL! BEFORE MAKING ELECTRICAL INPUT CON
NECTIONS TO THE POWER SOURCE, "MACHINERY LOCKOUT PRO
CEDURES" SHOULD BE EMPLOYED. IF THE CONNECTIONS ARE TO BE
MADE FROM A LINE DISCONNECT SWITCH, PLACE THE SWITCH IN THE
OFF POSITION AND PADLOCK IT TO PREVENT INADVERTENT TRIPPING.
IF THE CONNECTION IS MADE FROM A FUSEBOX, REMOVE THE CORRE
SPONDING FUSES AND PADLOCK THE BOX COVER. IF IT IS NOT POSSI
BLE TO USE PADLOCKS, ATTACH A RED TAG TO THE LINE DISCONNECT
SWITCH OR FUSE BOX WARNING OTHERS THAT THE CIRCUIT IS BEING
WORKED ON.
MTS 3500i
Input Requirements Input & Gnd
Conductors
Line
Fuse
Volts Phase Amps Cu / Awg Amps
230 1 44 6 60
230 3 39 8 50
400 3 24 10 30
440 3 27 10 35
460 3 24 10 30
575 3 17 10 25
SECTION 2 INSTALLATION
16
Line Voltage Fluctuations
The MTS 3500i is designed to compensate for line voltage variations of plus or minus 10 percent from the rated level while
maintaining rated output, without damage to internal components. If line voltage uctuations exceed this range, serious
damage could occur. Therefore, prior to installation, it is recommended that the line voltage of the supply circuit be mea-
sured at several times during the day. If uctuations beyond the +/-10% level are detected, another supply circuit should
be selected, or the local power company should be asked to adjust the supply. In addition, certain types of factory equip-
ment can cause rapid voltage swings (transients) which can cause the MTS 3500i safety circuits to “trip. Examples of such
equipment are resistance welders, punch presses, and starting of large electric motors.
2.4.1 Input Voltage Selection
As shipped from the factory, the 230/460 V model is set for 460 volts input and the 400/440 V model is set for 440 volts input.
If you will be operating the machine from a 230 V or 440 V source, open the switch access panel on the rear panel of the
machine and ip the Voltage Selector Switch to the 230 V or 440 V position. See Figures 2-3a or 2-3b.
Figure 2-3a.
Input Voltage Select Access Panel (Opened)
230/460 V model
Figure 2-3b.
Input Voltage Select Access Panel (Opened)
400/440 V model
2.4.2 Fuse Replacement
The 230/460 V model requires a 4 Amp, 500 V Slo-Blo fuse. The 575 V and 400/440 V models require a 2 Amp, 600 V Slo-Blo
fuse. Replace fuse with the same type and rating only.
575 V and 400/440 V models
Replace fuse with Slo-Blo, 2 Amp, 600 V only
MAKE SURE THE POWER
SOURCE IS SWITCHED OFF
BEFORE REMOVING FUSE.
WARNING
230/460 V model
Replace fuse with Slo-Blo, 4 Amp, 500 V only
SECTION 2 INSTALLATION
17
Two male plug connectors are supplied with the MTS 3500i (see Figure 2-4). To assemble the connectors onto each of your
welding cables, refer to the following instructions:
1. Slip the insulating boot over the end of the cable.
2. Strip the wire approximately 1-1/2" (37 mm) from the end.
3. Place the ferrule over the stripped wire end.
4. Place the male connector over the ferrule and tighten the two Allen screws until they are ush with the connec-
tor.
5. Slide the insulating boot over the assembly.
Refer to Tables 2-2 and 2-3 and Figures 2-4, 2-5, 2-6, and 2-7 when attaching welding cables and optional equipment to the
MTS 3500i.
Particular attention should be paid to the electrical resistance in the welding circuit; especially, the work and work cable and
when using a water-cooled torch. High resistance in the welding circuit can cause performance deterioration (loss of "heat"
input, popping of weld puddle, bushy arcs, etc.). It is recommended that the power source/wire feeder and workpiece be
placed as close together as possible to limit this resistance. Make sure that the work cable (ground) is large enough, kept
as short as possible, properly insulated, securely connected to the workpiece, and that all connections are clean and tightly
secured. If the work circuit includes mechanical xtures, ship structure, robot xtures, etc., make sure that the circuit is secure
and presents a low resistance path to the ow of weld current. Also, the power cable on a water-cooled torch is normally
subject to gradual deterioration and increasing resistance due to corrosion which leads to the poor performance described
above. To assure good torch performance, the water-cooled power cable should be replaced periodically.
ELECTRIC SHOCK CAN KILL! Before making any connections to the power source
output terminals, make sure that all primary power input power is deenergized (OFF)
at the line (wall) disconnect switch or circuit breaker.
2.5 Secondary Output Connections
MIG Welding
(DCRP)
TIG Welding
(DCSP)
Stick Welding
(DCSP or DCRP)
Electrode positive (+) negative (-)
positive (+) DCRP
negative (-) DCSP
Work negative (-) positive (+)
negative (-) DCRP
positive (+) DCSP
Table 2-2. Typical Output Connections
* Total cable length includes work and electrode cables. Cable size is based on direct current, insulated copper conductors, 100% duty cycle, and a
voltage drop of 4 or less volts. The welding cable insulation must have a voltage rating that is high enough to withstand the open circuit voltage of the
machine.
** The supplied male output connectors will not accept anything smaller than #2 gauge (35 mm) cable.
Table 2-3. Recommended Welding Cable Sizes - AWG (mm
2
)
Welding
Current
Total Length (Feet) of Cable in Welding Circuit*
50
(13 m)
100
(25 m)
150
(38 m)
200
(51 m)
250
(64 m)
100
150
200
250
300
6 (16)**
4 (25)**
3 (30)**
2 (35)
1 (50)
4 (25)**
3 (30)**
1 (50)
1/0 (50)
2/0 (70)
3 (30)**
1 (50)
1/0 (50)
2/0 (70)
3/0 (95)
2 (35)
1/0 (50)
2/0 (70)
3/0 (95)
4/0 (120)
1 (50)
2/0 (70)
3/0 (95)
4/0 (120)
4/0 (120)
SECTION 2 INSTALLATION
WARNING
18
Figure 2-4. Male Output Cable Connectors
Figure 2-5. MIG (GMAW) Interconnection Diagram
GMAW
DCEP
OPTIONAL PENDANT
OR HAND CONTROL
WORKPIECE ( - )
TORCH W/ SWITCH
WIRE FEEDER
SECTION 2 INSTALLATION
19
Figure 2-7. Stick (SMAW) Interconnection Diagram
Figure 2-6. TIG (GTAW) Interconnection Diagram
STRAIGHT POLARITY
Electrode Negative
REVERSE POLARITY
Electrode Positive
GTAW
DCEN
SMAW
DCEP / DCEN
OPTIONAL PENDANT
OR HAND CONTROL
OPTIONAL FOOT
CONTROL
WORKPIECE ( - )
WORKPIECE ( + )
OPTIONAL PENDANT
OR HAND CONTROL
OPTIONAL FOOT
CONTROL
WORKPIECE ( + )
OPTIONAL TORCH
CONTROL
GAS SUPPLY
TIG TORCH ADAPTOR
TIG TORCH W/ GAS VALVE
(air or water cooled)
SECTION 2 INSTALLATION
20
SECTION 2 INSTALLATION
21
Never, under any circumstances, operate the power source with the cover removed.
In addition to the safety hazard, improper cooling may cause damage to internal
components.
To prevent serious injury, never touch any torch parts forward of the handle unless
the power switch is in the o position.
Wear proper protective gloves, clothing, safety glasses, and helmet. A helmet with
lter lens shade No. 11-14 should provide adequate protection for your eyes. Refer
to the Safety Precautions in the beginning of this manual for additional operating
precautions.
Positive Output
Connection
Negative Output
Connection
E
F
D
O
P
N
M
Figure 3-1. Controls / Indicators
C
B
A
WARNING
3.1 General
3.2 Welding Controls/Indicators (Figure 3-1)
A. SLOPE CONTOL - This 3-position switch sets the slope
of the volt-ampere curve characteristic in the MIG
(CV) mode. This control is bypassed in the TIG and
Stick modes. In MIG (GMAW) welding, slope is particu-
larly useful in short circuiting transfer (“short-arc”, dip
transfer”) and for welding of aluminum. Slope adjust-
ments control the short-circuit current and reduce
spatter during short-circuiting welding of steel, and
reduce the current uctuations which can cause insta-
bility when welding aluminum.
Typical slope settings are shown on Table 3-1 for several
dierent electrode types, shielding gases, and arc modes.
For more complete explanation of the function of slope,
refer to the “Mig Welding Handbook”, Part No. 791F18,
or The Welding Handbook, published by the American
Welding Society.
G
H
J
I
K
L
SECTION 3 OPERATION
/