ESAB South Africa has introduced its new compact and robust Rogue stick/lift-TIG welder into the South African market. ESAB’s Jannie Bronkhorst takes us through the exciting new features of this very affordable premium MMA welding solution.
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Underpinning the release of ESAB’s Rogue welding machine, is overcoming entry-level mediocrity. “With an all-new industrial design, unconventional features and unprecedented performance, Rogue ushers in a rethink of everything a welder used to expect from an entry-level portable MMA machine,” says ESAB South Africa’s Jannie Bronkhorst.
ESAB has embedded its next-level technology into this new machine to give welders precise, professional and consistent control for smooth, stable arc performance and low spatter levels in all weld positions using any type of MMA electrode up to 4.0 mm in diameter.
Adjustable hot start makes arc striking easier than ever, even with the most difficult electrodes, while adjustable arc force helps to increase penetration and prevent electrodes from sticking. Being digital the Microprocessor precisely controls all functions and provides best-in-class welding performance across the amperage range of the machine.
“Compared to other MMA welders, our Rogue units feature a higher open circuit voltage (OCV), which also promotes better arc starting. The Rogue ES 200i, for example, has an OCV of 78 V, which is significantly higher than most competitors. Never before has an entry-level welder included such high-performance features,” suggests Bronkhorst.
The dc Lift-TIG function provides positive arc starts without the use of high frequency. All Rogue models deliver a stable TIG arc down to 10 A, giving welders the control they need to work on thin metal or delicate components.
Power and strength
In terms of power, Rogue’s output current stacks up against competing machines at twice its price. The Rogue PRO also includes Power Factor Control (PFC) technology, which is ideal for use in South Africa to allow for an efficient and steady welding arc regardless of power fluctuations. The machines can run on 115 V or 230 V (Rogue PRO) with flexible automatic input voltage compensation, which makes them ideal for use from mains and generator power. With a 25% duty cycle at 200 Amps, tested at 40 °C ambient temperatures, Rogue ES200i has the power to cope with most jobs on thicker materials.
“In terms of robustness and strength, no other machine at this price comes close to matching Rogue. Its robust and rigid housing is built to withstand impact after impact, in the workshop or on site. With an IP 23S rating for use in tough outdoor applications, Rogue is durable and weather resistant. It also comes with our ESAB global one-year warranty for unbeatable peace of mind. There is no longer any reason to tolerate cheaply constructed welders,” Bronkhorst advises.
The Rogue is a robust and durable power source for the professional welder. The machine provides state of-the-art welding performance and reliability through use of the latest high performance power electronics and digital control; ensuring a precise consistent arc in all industries, including repair and maintenance; civil construction; agricultural equipment; and industrial and general fabrication.
Portability
Weighing only 8.2 kg, Rogue’s compact and lightweight design makes it easy to carry from job to job. It has a sturdy handle and a shoulder strap is included to make it comfortable to carry the machine around a worksite.
Stable arc performance and voltage compensation on the Rogue PRO mean long extension cables can be used, even in the most remote locations, without affecting weld quality. “Once again, in spite of its entry level price, ESAB’s new Rogue MMA machine has all the features usually associated with a much more expensive portable compact,” he adds.
A summary of the key features of the ESAB Rogue ES200i PRO include:
- Superior arc characteristics: smooth, stable performance.
- Generator compliant: suitable for use with generators (recommended 7 kW).
- Easy to use: set the welding current and weld with excellent results.
- Practical design: makes the power source easy to carry which enables use at almost any work site.
- Robust design: IP23S-designed for fabrication shop or site application.
- PFC ensures a stable arc, resistant to power fluctuations even while working on long extension cables up to 100 m.
An optional analogue remote control is available.
Testing in laboratories around the world has proved that ESAB’s new Rogue MMA power source meets global performance and usability standards. “It has an easy-to-use interface with a large, precise digital display that can be easily read from up to 25 m away. “The optional remote control on the Rogue PRO allows the welder to adjust current settings without needing to go back to the machine and, no matter where it is welding or what is being welded, Rogue simply welds well,” Bronkhorst assures.
Service and support
“Rogue, like every ESAB machine, is backed by our commitment to superior customer service and support. Our skilled customer service department is prepared to answer any questions, address problems and help with maintenance and upgrading of machines,” Bronkhorst assures, adding that the machine is backed by ESAB’s 1-year warranty.
“Unlike other machines in this class, Rogue comes with a range of premium accessories, giving welders everything they need to start welding right out of the box,” he concludes.