The ESAB Warrior™ 400i MV CC/CV is a versatile welding power source designed for a range of welding processes, making it suitable for various industrial applications. This robust unit supports MIG/MAG welding, welding with powder-filled cored wire (FCAW-S), TIG welding, welding with coated electrodes (MMA), and arc air gouging. Its multi-process capability allows operators to switch between different welding tasks with a single machine, enhancing efficiency and flexibility in the workshop or on-site.
Function Description
The core function of the Warrior™ 400i MV CC/CV is to provide a stable and reliable power output for various arc welding and cutting processes. It is designed to operate on a 3-phase input supply, ensuring consistent performance across different power grids. The device incorporates several key features to optimize welding performance and ensure operator safety.
For MIG/MAG welding, the power source utilizes a continuously supplied wire, with the weld pool protected by shielding gas. This process is ideal for high-speed welding and offers good penetration. When using powder-filled cored wire (FCAW-S), the machine provides the necessary power to melt the wire, which contains flux to protect the weld.
TIG welding with the Warrior™ 400i MV CC/CV involves melting the workpiece metal using an arc struck from a non-consumable tungsten electrode, with the weld pool and electrode protected by shielding gas. The "Live TIG-start" feature allows the tungsten electrode to be placed against the workpiece, and the arc is struck at a limited current level when the electrode is lifted away, providing a controlled start to the weld.
For MMA welding, also known as welding with coated electrodes, the machine supplies current to melt the electrode, whose coating forms a protective slag over the weld. This method is highly versatile and suitable for various materials and outdoor conditions.
Arc air gouging is another capability of this power source, where a special carbon rod electrode with a copper casing is used. An arc melts the material, and compressed air is supplied to blow away the melted metal, making it effective for removing excess weld metal or preparing joints.
The device includes a Voltage Reducing Device (VRD) function, which ensures that the open-circuit voltage does not exceed 35 V when welding is not being carried out. This is a critical safety feature, indicated by a lit VRD LED, that minimizes the risk of electric shock. The VRD function is automatically blocked once welding begins.
Thermal protection is integrated into the power source to prevent damage from overheating. If the internal temperature becomes too high, the welding current is interrupted, and a thermal indication LED illuminates. The system automatically resets once the temperature returns to a normal operating range.
The machine also offers adjustable inductance for MIG/MAG welding and arc force for MMA welding. Inductance control allows operators to fine-tune the weld pool characteristics, with higher inductance leading to a wider weld pool and less spatter, while lower inductance produces a harsher sound but a stable, concentrated arc. Arc force, applicable only to MMA welding, determines how the current changes in response to arc length variations, with lower values resulting in a calmer arc and reduced spatter.
Usage Features
The Warrior™ 400i MV CC/CV is designed for ease of use and control, featuring a clear display for current (A) and voltage (V) readings. Operators can select the welding method using a dedicated knob, simplifying the setup process for different applications.
Setting the welding parameters is straightforward with specific knobs for current (A) in MMA/TIG/Arc air gouging modes and voltage (V) in Mobile Feed mode. An additional knob allows for the selection of electrode type, ensuring optimal performance for various consumables. The inductance and arc force settings provide granular control over the welding arc, allowing experienced welders to achieve precise results.
The power source includes a connection for a wire feed unit, which is essential for MIG/MAG and self-shielded cored wire welding. It also features a connection for a remote control unit (optional), offering greater flexibility for operators to adjust parameters from a distance, especially in challenging work environments.
For safety, the unit is equipped with a mains power supply switch (I/O) and a circuit breaker for the wire feed unit, ensuring proper power management. The design emphasizes user protection, with clear warnings regarding electrical shock, fumes and gases, and moving parts. It is crucial for users to read and understand the instruction manual and all safety labels before operation.
The machine's fan control system is designed to run for 6.5 minutes after welding stops, helping to cool down internal components before switching to an energy-saving mode. The fan automatically restarts when welding resumes, maintaining optimal operating temperatures.
Maintenance Features
Regular maintenance is crucial for the safe and reliable operation of the Warrior™ 400i MV CC/CV. The manual outlines a detailed cleaning procedure that should be performed by personnel with appropriate electrical skills. This includes disconnecting the mains supply and waiting for capacitors to discharge before removing panels.
The cleaning process involves using dry compressed air at a pressure of 4 bar to clear dust from various internal components, including the upper part, rear panel, secondary heat sink, inductor, transformer, current sensor, power components side, and PCBs. Specific attention is given to the plastic dust box and boost inductor. This thorough cleaning helps prevent overheating and ensures the longevity of the power source.
After cleaning, the dust cover, top panel, and side panels must be reinstalled, and a test of the power source according to IEC 60974-4 should be performed to ensure it functions correctly.
For welding torches, a regular program of care and maintenance is recommended to reduce downtime. Each time a wire bobbin is changed, the welding torch should be removed from the power source and cleaned with compressed air. It is also important to ensure that the wire end does not have sharp edges when inserted into the wire liner, preventing damage to the liner.
The manual emphasizes that all repair and electrical work should be performed by an authorized ESAB service technician using only original ESAB spare and wear parts, ensuring that the product continues to comply with international safety standards. This approach to maintenance helps preserve the warranty and ensures the continued safe operation of the equipment.