ESAB today unveiled the Rustler EM 280 PRO, its next generation inverter-based MIG welder to improve productivity, boost quality and simplify training in industrial fabrication applications. Rustler EM 280 PRO has a maximum welding output of 280 amps and rated output of 200 amps at 60% duty cycle. It connects to 208V/230V single-phase primary power ± 15% and features Power Factor Correction to lower primary power draw. The Rustler can provide its full output range on a 30A breaker, where older-generation technology required 50A service. It offers an energy efficiency of 82% to lower utility bills. After two minutes of idle time, it enters an energy saver mode to further reduce power consumption.
The Rustler EM 280 PRO comes ready to weld most common base materials with factory-optimized arc programs for carbon steel, stainless steel, aluminum, silicon bronze and flux cored wires from 0.023 to 0.045 in. It has the power to deliver the productivity benefits of spray transfer welding with 0.045-in. solid and flux cored wires and 0.047-in. aluminum wires. It can weld up to ½-in. steel and 3/8-in. aluminum in a single pass.
“The Rustler combines simple, intuitive controls with outstanding arc performance and arc starts, reliable operation and affordability for small fabricators and welding fleets in general industrial fabrication, repair and maintenance applications,” says Michael Sammons, Global Product Manager, ESAB. “By stepping up to Rustler from outdated designs/technology, fabricators can improve set-up time and accuracy and weld with a stable arc and minimal spatter to further improve productivity.”
Superior Feeding Performance
Rustler’s 4-wheel drive wire feed mechanism combines high precision, power and reliability to deliver better arc starts and stops without backlash or play in the gears. Large 1.5-in. diameter drive rolls provide more wire contact to provide better push force without deforming soft cored and aluminium wires, a common source of feeding problems.
Rustler accepts 8- and 12-in. diameter wire spools. It features 14-segment digital displays on the front panel and offers control functions such as gas pre- and post-flow, run-in speed control, wire burnback control, crater fill, 2T/4T trigger control and Arc Dynamics (a control to fine tune arc characteristics for a crisp/stiff arc when welding carbon steel or a smooth/soft arc when welding stainless steel).
Welding operators will appreciate such conveniences as a tool/storage box on top of the unit, an inspection window to check wire level and an LED light in the spool compartment. Other features include a gun rest to keep the gun off the floor, cable and PPE hangers for better organization, a low cylinder support shelf for easier loading, a lighter weight (120 lbs.) and two handles to easily maneuver the system around the shop. It comes equipped with a Spray Master V250 air-cooled MIG gun with 15-ft. cable. The Rustler will automatically detect when the optional Tweco Spool Gun is connected for welding aluminum.
