Expanding its Vantage engine-driven welder-generator series, The Lincoln Electric Co. has introduced a new midsized unit rated 19 kW three-phase (12 kW single-phase) positioned between its Vantage 300 and 500 sets. With the new Vantage 400 welder-generator, Lincoln produces three Vantage models in the 12.5 to 20 kW range, powered by Kubota, Perkins, Deutz and Cummins diesels, along with an AirVantage unit which combines a welder, generator and compressor.
Its Vantage 400 welder-generator targets construction, pipe and rental fleet applications, offering multiprocess welding for CC-stick (up to .25 in.), downhill pipe (for stick), dc TIG and CV-wire. Welder output is 400 amps, three-phase 240 Vac, which Lincoln said can power industrial equipment such as plasma cutters, pumps or inverter welders. Single-phase Vac operation of the generator produces an auxiliary single-phase output of 12 kW to supply lights, grinders or other common construction tools.
Power on the unit is driven by a 2.2 L four-cylinder Perkins 404C-22 diesel engine rated 32.7 hp at 1800 rpm. The engine is fitted with a dry-type air cleaner and used to drive the Lincoln-wound alternator to produce the unit's 19 kW output. The Perkins engine incorporates automatic shutdown for low oil pressure or high engine temperature and an automatic idle function. The fuel tank is 15 gal., which provides a 12-hour runtime during welding at 400 amps, 36 V at 100% duty cycle or 36 hours at high idle, said Lincoln. This welder-generator, unlike Lincoln's other Vantage units, has a Voltage Reduction Device (VRD) standard. With VRD, the operator can select a lower open circuit voltage, which is a safer option for CC-Stick welding in wet or hot, humid sweaty conditions that are high risk for electrical shocks. The company has also integrated its Chopper Technology, which is designed to deliver a smooth are for stick, downhill pipe, TIG and wire welding.
All components on the Vantage 400 are housed within a corrosion-resistant enclosure with stainless-steel roof, side panel and engine access door. The lockable access panel provides one-side service for the engine and oil filter. A tilt-down control panel provides access to the internal components and a slide-out drawer reveals the battery compartment.
Engine performance can be monitored via the engine temperature, fuel level and oil pressure gauges while digital meters display welding amps and volts. Two 120 V GFCI duplex receptacles are incorporated in the panel, outfitted with circuit breaker protection and weather-protective covers. One full kVa single-phase receptacle and one full kVa three-phase receptacle are also present, as well as an hourmeter and 14-pin connectors for wire feeders.
Dimensions on the Vantage 400 welder-generator are 35.9 in. high by 25.3 in. wide and 60 in. long, allowing it to be placed in a pickup or service truck. Weight on the unit is 1230 lb. and noise level is rated 99.1 dB(A). Lincoln produces the Vantage 400 in Cleveland, Ohio, headquarters facility.
