In my Miller Multimatic 220 review, I will explain why this machine is incredibly versatile and offers a wide range of welding options for all types of projects, making it an excellent choice for anyone who needs a reliable, high-quality welding unit.
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As a welding enthusiast, I've had the chance to try out a wide range of welding machines over the years. But the Miller Multimatic 220 is definitely one of the best all-in-one welders that I've come across so far at this price point.
Features That Make Miller Multimatic 220 AC DC an Awesome Multi-Process Welder
One of the things that really sets the Multimatic 220 apart from other welders on the market is its proprietary Auto-Set Elite technology. This innovative feature makes it incredibly easy to set up and use the machine, even if you're new to welding.
It’s simply awesome, especially when you are using a process you don’t do all the time. The ability to toggle from DC Tig welding to Mig by pressing the trigger or foot pedal, along with the fact that this welder incorporates AC TIG capabilities is what I wanted all along.
The technology automatically adjusts the machine's settings based on the specific metal thickness and welding process you're using, so you can get the perfect weld every time without having to worry about getting the settings just right.
I found it very easy to "tweak" the settings to suit my preferences with the adjustment knobs. The Auto-Set Elite feature worked great for me, providing just the right amount of heat to make a solid weld.
If you like, you can use the chart provided by Miller to find the right settings and enter them yourself. Use the right MIG and TIG gas and you're good to go!
Multimatic 220 Technical Specifications:
Input Voltage: 120/240 V
Input Phase: 1-Phase
Rated Output: 160 A at 240 V MIG, 200 A at 240 V TIG/Stick
Welding Amperage Range: 20 A to 230 A
Weldable Materials: Aluminum, Steel, Stainless Steel
Dimensions: 29.5 x 20.5 x 12.5 in
Weight: 56 lb
Processes: MIG, TIG, Stick welding
What comes with Miller Multimatic 220 AC DC welder:
- Multimatic® 220 AC/DC welder
- 6.5 ft (2 m) power cord and MVP™ adapter plugs for 120V and 240V
- 10 ft MDX™-100 MIG Welding Gun
- 13 ft (4 m) cable electrode holder and 25 mm Dinse-style connector
- 12.5 ft (3.8 m) Weldcraft™ A-150 (WP-17) TIG welding torch with 25mm Dinse-style connector
- RFCS-14 HD foot control with 20 ft (6 m) cord
- 10 ft (3 m) work cable with clamp and 25 mm Dinse-style connector
- Two Argon and AR/CO2 mix regulator/flow gauge with hoses
- Spool of Hobart® .030 in (0.8 mm) solid wire
- Two contact tips for .030 in (0.8 mm) wire
- Quick Select™ drive roll for .024 in (0.6 mm) or .030/.035 in (0.8/0.9 mm) solid wire, and .030/.035 (0.8/0.9 mm) flux cored wire
- AK2C TIG welding torch accessory kit
- Material thickness gauge #229895
- Hook-and-loop cord wraps
Miller excels at making multi process machines packed with awesome features. In addition to Auto-Set Elite, the Miller Multimatic 220 also comes with a wide range of other proprietary features that make it an incredibly powerful and versatile welding unit.
These include Miller's patented Multi-Voltage Plug (MVP) technology, which allows you to use the machine with both 120-volt and 240-volt power sources, making it ideal for use in a variety of different settings.
My Impressions of Multimatic 220
This multi process machine from Miller has a very smooth arc and produces very little spatter. The arc is stable and easy to control, making it easy to get a good-looking weld. I appreciated the ability to adjust the hot-start and arc-force features, which helped me to fine-tune the welding to my liking.
The Miller Multimatic 220 also boasts a range of impressive technical specifications that make it one of the best welding machines on the market.
For example, the machine has a welding amperage range of 20 to 230 amps, which means it can handle a wide range of welding projects with ease.
It has a duty cycle of 40% at 200 amps, which means it can handle extended welding sessions without overheating or breaking down.
Metal Thickness and Possible Welding Applications
When it comes to the thickness of metal that Multimatic 220 can handle, this welding machine is capable of welding up to 3/8 inch mild steel, aluminum (it can DC TIG weld aluminum with the included TIG torch using 100% argon shielding gases, as well as using aluminum spool gun which you would need to buy separately), and up to 1/4 inch stainless steel.
This makes it an excellent choice for a variety of different MIG, TIG and stick welding applications, including automotive repair, fabrication, and construction.
Multimatic 220 AC DC Versatility
One of the things I really appreciate about the Miller Multimatic 220 is its versatility - no need for separate machines! With its ability to handle a wide range of welding jobs and easily switch processes, including MIG, TIG, and stick welder features, this machine can handle almost any welding task you throw at it.
As simple as the idea sounds, it's not an easy feat to build a welding machine that provides the current required for these different processes. Plus, with its compact and portable design, it's easy to take with you to job sites or move around your shop as needed.
In my Forney Easy Weld 140 MP review, you can see what features a lower price welder has to offer and compare the two.
Initial Welding Testing of MM 220
During my testing, I started with the MIG function and used 0.35 steel wire with CO2 on 3/16 low-carbon steel. I was once again impressed with the Multimatic 220's delivery, arc control, penetration, and the appearance of the finished weld.
However, I didn't stop there. I switched to 0.35 304L stainless wire and welded some 304 3/16 stainless plates with the same impressive results.
What's even more impressive is that this was accomplished on just 120V power. MIG welding requires a constant voltage power supply, which is spot on with my new welding machine here!
I then moved on to test the DC TIG function with argon and a 3/32 tungsten on stainless sheet metal. The Multimatic 220 performed beautifully with lap welds, corner welds, and tee welds. I loved the level of control I had and how tight and consistent the arc was, and this was also true when welding aluminum.
Multimatic 220 Userfriendliness
It's worth mentioning again just how user-friendly this machine is. Its preset features make it incredibly easy to use, to the point where even a beginner could become an expert welder in no time.
While the Multimatic 220 certainly has its limitations and isn't an industrial welder, it is perfect for DIYers, maintenance use, or any professional who is just starting out and wants an exceptional MIG welder with TIG and stick options to use for years on end.
Another advantage of the Multimatic 220 is its user-friendly interface. The machine features a clear and intuitive digital interface that makes it easy to set up and use, even if you're not an experienced welder.
As with any machine, some assembly was required after the components were unpacked from the shipping box. Fortunately, everything was easy to figure out (even for those who may not read instructions), and I was up and running in a few minutes.
When it comes to using Multimatic 220 powered by a generator, 3500 watts would probably be a little too low to run any sizable welds. The manual calls for a 10,000-watt generator for off-the-grid welding.
Also, you have to be careful with generators making dirty power, you may need a generator with THD less than 5% to run this welder. If you need an off-grid rig I honestly recommend buying the Hobart Champion 225. It is a 10,000W generator as well as a high-output stick welder.
Pros and Cons
Things We Liked
Things We Didn't Like
FAQs:
Can the Multimatic 220 AC DC welder be used for aluminum welding?
Yes, the Multimatic 220 can TIG weld aluminum using the TIG torch included. However, a spool gun is required for MIG welding and must be purchased separately.
What is the weight of the Multimatic 220 welder?
The Multimatic 220 welder weighs 56 lb.This makes it portable for jobs outside your shop.
Can the Multimatic 220 welder be used with a generator?
Yes, the Multimatic 220 can be used with a generator that has a minimum of 10kW output.
Does the Multimatic 220 welder come with a warranty?
Yes, the Multimatic 220 welder comes with a three-year warranty.
What is the welding amperage range of the Multimatic 220 welder?
The welding amperage range of the Multimatic 220 welder is 20 A to 230 A.
Final Thoughts on Multimatic 220 AC DC
In conclusion, if you're looking for a versatile, high-quality welding machine that offers a wide range of proprietary features and technical specifications, the Multimatic 220 from Miller is definitely one machine that stands out in the welding industry.
Whether you're a professional welder or a hobbyist, Multimatic 220 is sure to deliver excellent results and make welding projects a breeze for both hobbyists and experienced welders.