The welding machines from RED by Lorch can generally be operated with mobile power generators (power units). Since generators can cause voltage fluctuations depending on their design and load condition, the generator must have a sufficient minimum power to ensure stable welding operation.
What generator power is required?
As a rule of thumb: The power of the generator should be at least 1.5 times the maximum input power of the welding machine. The maximum input power is derived from the nameplate data of the respective device (U₁ × Imax).
| Device | U₁ (Mains voltage) | Imax | Max. input power | Recommended generator power (×1.5) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| RED MMA 160 PRO | 230 V | 31 A | 7.1 kVA | ≥ 10.7 kVA |
| RED TIG 180 DC | 230 V | 22.3 A | 5.1 kVA | ≥ 7.7 kVA |
| RED MIG 210 SYN | 230 V | 35 A | 8.5 kVA | ≥ 12.1 kVA |
Note: The information on U₁ and Imax can be found on the nameplate of your RED by Lorch welding machine.
For the RED TIG 180 DC, approximately 8 kVA generator power is sufficient in theory. However, we still recommend a generator with at least 10 kVA to ensure sufficient power reserves for stable welding operation.
What happens with insufficient generator power?
If the generator power is below the recommended minimum value, the following problems may occur:
- Arc ignition disturbed – The arc cannot be reliably ignited or breaks off at the start.
- Unstable welding behaviour – The welding quality is impaired, e.g. by an uneven arc or spatter.
- Possible damage to the welding machine – Voltage spikes that can occur during load changes on the generator can damage electronic components of the welding machine.
Important: In this case, the welding machine does not issue an error message or warning. An insufficient generator is not detected by the device.
Notes on generator operation
- Use a generator with automatic voltage regulation (AVR). Generators without AVR can produce strong voltage fluctuations even with sufficient rated power, which can impair the welding process or endanger the device.
- Ensure that the generator delivers a clean sine wave. Simple generators with heavily distorted output voltage are not suitable for inverter welding machines.
- Start the generator before switching on the welding machine and allow it to stabilise at idle.
- If possible, do not operate other high-power consumers simultaneously on the same generator.
Note on warranty
Damage to the welding machine that can be proven to be due to operation with an unsuitable or undersized generator is excluded from the warranty. This includes, in particular, damage caused by voltage spikes, frequency deviations or insufficient generator power.
Further information on operation, maintenance and other instructions for handling RED devices can be found in the operating manuals of the RED welding machines
If you have further questions or if there is a technical defect that needs to be repaired, please contact us via the contact form