The Migatronic Focus Stick 160 is a compact MMA inverter on 230 V with a TIG Lift function. You set the current from 20 to 160 A, at a 100% duty cycle the machine gives 110 A, and it weighs 6.3 kg.
The new model that replaced this stick welder is the Focus Stick 161E PFC (the site is in Polish).
What this machine is for
This is kit for the covered electrode on assembly and service jobs. The range from 20 to 160 A covers rutile and basic electrodes up to 3.2 mm in diameter, and now and then also 4.0 mm. An open circuit voltage of 85 V makes striking easier, also with a basic electrode, which needs a firm start.
A weight of 6.3 kg means you carry the machine in one hand together with the cables. The manufacturer aims it at assembly firms, installation crews and tradespeople who work on site, often on an uncertain supply. Once you buy a torch with a gas valve, you also weld with the TIG Lift method on direct current, that is you strike by scratching, with no HF module.
The PFC module, that is power factor correction, draws current from the mains with lower losses. In practice the welder runs from a generator and on an extension lead 100 m long without losing arc stability, which matters on work at height and in large halls.
Features and equipment
- The PFC module, that is power factor correction. It holds a stable arc when the voltage swings, on a supply from a generator and on an extension lead up to 100 m.
- Hot Start, that is a lift in current at the start, which makes striking the electrode easier.
- Arc Force, that is arc stabilisation in awkward positions and with a short stickout.
- TIG Lift for welding on direct current once you buy a torch with a gas valve.
- It handles rutile and basic electrodes up to 3.2 mm, and now and then 4.0 mm.
Technical data
| Brand | Migatronic |
|---|---|
| Process | MMA, TIG Lift, manual welding |
| MMA welding current | 20 to 160 A |
| Supply | 230 V, with a PFC module |
| Duty cycle at 20 degrees Celsius | 110 A at 100% |
| Open circuit voltage | 85 V |
| Weight | 6.3 kg |
| Electrode diameters | up to 3.2 mm, now and then 4.0 mm |
| Work on an extension lead | up to 100 m |
What to watch out for
The supply is ordinary 230 V, but with a longer extension lead watch the conductor cross section, because PFC copes with a voltage drop and not with an overheating cable. The 110 A at a 100% duty cycle sets the limit for continuous work, so at 160 A and with a 4.0 mm electrode take breaks for cooling. The product record gives no cooling system and no dimensions, so confirm the configuration before you buy.
You buy the TIG Lift torch with a gas valve separately, and the record does not list it, nor the cables and the MMA electrode holder, so ask what the set includes.
How we sell used machines
This unit was checked in our service workshop in Krotoszyn with measurements to PN-EN 60974-4 and a load test. The price includes the first year of the basic service package: an inspection with cleaning of the machine and a validation measurement. Further years can be added. We ship across the European Union, collection in person by appointment.
