Editorial Contact:

Chuck Schroeder
Charleston|Orwig, Inc.
(262) 563-5056
cschroeder@comktg.com

70 SERIES ENHANCEMENTS INCREASE CONSISTENCY, EASE OF USE

- Auto-detection, auxiliary menu offers simpler controls, added flexibility - Compatible with older power sources

APPLETON, Wis., Sept. 2002 -
Miller Electric Mfg. Co. has announced enhancements to the 70 Series semi-automatic, constant speed wire feeders that improves ease of use. The 70 Series wire feeders are designed to reliably provide superior arc control for heavy manufacturing, fabrication and high-volume welding applications. Single, dual, bench top and SwingArc boom-mounted models are available. The 70 Series feeders feature a 60 lb. maximum spool capacity and run solid wires .023-1/8 in. in diameter at 50—780 inches per minute (IPM) wire feed speed.

Ready–to-Use

Recent enhancements to all products in the 70 Series include a new auto-detection system, while the 74DX model also features a new auxiliary menu. The auto-detection system determines if the feeder is hooked up to a power source with a 14-pin connection for current and voltage feedback. The 70 Series feeders now disregard the run-in sequence when attached to power sources without feedback, eliminating the need to remove the cover and change dip switches, making it ready-to-use out of the box even with older power sources.

The auxiliary menu featured on the 74DX can be protected by a three-digit code and allows operators to change settings and features to ensure weld consistency without having to remove panels to access dip switches. In the past, inches-per-minute/meters-per-minute settings, voltage and wire-speed locks were set internally with dip switches.

“These enhancements improve weld consistency by preventing operators from changing settings outside of a predetermined range,” says Eric Young, product manager, Miller Electric. “The ability to set these features through the auxiliary menu eliminates the task of removing panels to reach dip switches.”

The 74 DX also features a more user-friendly display. Flashing LEDs indicate to the operator which menu is in use. When start, crater or pre/postflow sequences are enabled in each program the LED stays lit. This eliminates guesswork and the need to enter the sequence mode to determine if these functions are being utilized.

Greater Flexibility through Added Options

Miller offers single, dual, bench-top and SwingArc boom-mounted versions of 70 Series wire feeders for application versatility. The dual bench-top wire models increase efficiency in applications that require two different wires. Each side features a spool capacity of 60 lb., independent controls and separate meters (optional). This allows an operator to switch instantly between guns (only one gun can be used at a time) and eliminates the changeover delays that occur with single wire feeders.

Popular dual feeder applications include: a solid steel wire and a flux core wire, with .045 on one side and 5/64 in. on the other, an all-position wire and a flat/horizontal wire, or various wire combinations. Dual 70 Series feeders are available in bench-top or Swingarc models.

Swingarc boom-mounted 70 Series feeders bring an extra dimension of flexibility, efficiency and operator comfort to high-production wire welding stations. The Swingarc places the feeder controls at the base of a 12- or 16-ft. boom and the drive assembly at the end of the boom. The boom rotates 360 degrees and moves 60 degrees up and down to create a 24- or 32-ft. diameter work area. A counterbalance design holds the boom in place once the operator sets its position.

“A Swingarc can eliminate the need to move the power source or feeder when working on large weldments or in difficult-to-reach areas. This saves time and money,” says Young. “It also improves operator comfort because the boom mounting reduces perceived gun weight. In addition, the Swingarc removes unwanted cable clutter from the floor. This results in cleaner, safer work cells and less service repair for welding cables.”

70 Series Details

All 70 Series feeders incorporate Miller’s unique Posifeed four-drive-roll system, which features all-gear-driven roll carriers that grip wire more positively than a single drive wheel/idler wheel arrangement. Other features of these easy-to-use feeders include dual tension control, trigger hold, a tool-less rotatable drive and automatic run-in control. Advanced models enhance the machine’s capabilities with digital meters and the ability to store four customized weld programs, dual schedule control, adjustable weld sequence control and weld process range control. Upgrade kits are available to convert standard models to digital or deluxe models.

The 70 Series feeders are covered by Miller's True Blue three-year parts and labor factory warranty. To download a 70 Series wire feeder spec sheet, visit Miller's website at MillerWelds.com. For more information or the Miller distributor nearest you, call 800-4-A-MILLER (800-426-4553), e-mail info@millerwelds.com, fax 877-327-8132, visit the website or write to Miller Electric Mfg. Co., P.O. Box 100, Lithonia, GA 30058.

With headquarters in Appleton, Wis., Miller Electric Mfg. Co. is a leading worldwide manufacturer of Miller and Hobart brand arc welding equipment and related systems for metalworking, construction, maintenance and other applications. Miller Electric is a wholly owned subsidiary of Illinois Tool Works Inc. (ITW), Glenview, Ill. ITW is a diversified multinational manufacturer of highly engineered components, assemblies and systems.