Hey guys, I've still been using the single gauge w/fixed regulator that came with my MIG, and I'm thinking of upgrading to a dual gauge with working regular. Right now my gauge just shows me pressure in the tank, not in the hose- but I can't adjust what's coming out of the tank anyway.

So... think it's worth the extra for the floating ball flow meter? Everyone says "it's easier to see"- but I'd think a gauge needle would be easier to see (black needle on white face). Plus, it's not like I'd be welding from across my garage- The tank is a couple inches from the welder, and chances are, I wouldn't be welding if I was almost out of gas anyway.

Just trying to get your general thoughts... I mean if it's a world of difference, I'll spend the extra $20, but if it's no big deal either way, I'll keep the $20 and have a gauge that won't break as easy (a little worried about accidently cracking the glass flow meter!) Thanks!

 

foolish to not have a flow meter instead of a regulator

 

I've just got a plain 'ole Victor 2 gauge setup on the TIG. Bottle pressure on the incoming side, and flow rate in CFM on the outgoing side. Pressure tells me when I'm getting close to empty and need a new bottle, and CFM is good to set depending if I'm doing close delicate work with tiny electrodes, or some larger electrodes, gas lens, and a longer distance for more CFM. Too much CFM with a small cup will be turbulent, and suck in air, contaminating the sheilding...

 

ideal way to check is with a flow meter at the nozzle or cup, but still the ball float works good.

 

Yeah, I want to get away from that fixed regulator - and before I start slicing up my car (soon), I've gotta refill my bottle. It's one of those "Well, while I'm at the welding store, I might as well get one of these and one of those and etc..."