Ridgid 90 Amp, 120-Volt, Flux Core Welder Feed Welder

When I first got my hands on the Ridgid RFC90 Flux Core Welder, I was immediately struck by its compact and lightweight design. Weighing in at just 9 lbs, it’s clear that portability was a significant consideration in its creation. This welder is designed to be easily transported and used in various locations, making it ideal for both home and on-site projects.

Setting up the RFC90 was a breeze. The user-friendly design ensures that even beginners can get started without much hassle. The package includes a 6 ft. MIG gun, a 5 ft. ground clamp, and a shoulder strap, all of which are easy to assemble and use. One of the standout features is the infinite control over voltage and wire feed speed, allowing for precise adjustments to suit different welding tasks. This flexibility is crucial for achieving clean and consistent welds, especially for those who are still learning the ropes.

The RFC90 operates on standard 120-volt household power, which is incredibly convenient as it eliminates the need for special power setups. This welder is compatible with 0.030 in. flux-core wire, making it versatile for various welding tasks. During my initial tests, I used the welder on mild steel ranging from 22 gauge to 1/4 inch thick. The performance was impressive, with smooth and consistent welds that demonstrated the welder's capability even on thicker materials.

One of the first projects I tackled with the RFC90 was welding 2”x2”x6' 1/4”-thick angle iron. The welder handled the task with ease, laying down solid beads without any issues. The infinite voltage and wire feed speed control allowed me to fine-tune the settings to achieve optimal results. The welder's inverter technology also played a significant role in its efficiency and control, providing a stable arc and reducing spatter.

The duty cycle of 20% at 90 amps is something to keep in mind, especially for larger projects. This means that the welder can operate continuously for 2 minutes at full power before needing a 10-minute cooldown period. While this might seem limiting, it's adequate for most DIY and small-scale professional tasks. During my usage, I rarely encountered any issues with the duty cycle, as there was usually enough downtime for adjustments and repositioning between welds.

One of the aspects I appreciated about the RFC90 is its build quality. Despite its lightweight and compact design, the welder feels robust and well-constructed. The power cord is of a heavy gauge, providing a sense of durability and reliability. The ground clamp and MIG gun are also well-built, with good ergonomic design that makes them comfortable to use for extended periods.

However, there are a few minor drawbacks to consider. The shoulder strap, while useful for transport, can be a bit awkward to install and sometimes gets in the way when accessing the interior of the welder. A quick-release mechanism for the strap would have been a more convenient solution. Additionally, the process of switching between negative and positive polarity involves moving a jumper wire at the front of the unit. This design choice, although functional, feels a bit outdated and can be prone to snagging.

Another point to note is that the RFC90 does not come with a welding helmet, gloves, or flux-core wire, so you'll need to purchase these separately. This is a minor inconvenience but something to keep in mind when budgeting for your welding setup.

Overall, my experience with the Ridgid RFC90 Flux Core Welder has been overwhelmingly positive. Its compact size, lightweight design, and user-friendly features make it an excellent choice for both beginners and more experienced welders. The ability to operate on standard household power and the inclusion of infinite control over voltage and wire feed speed further enhance its versatility and convenience.

For anyone looking for a reliable and portable welder for home or small professional projects, I highly recommend the Ridgid RFC90. Its performance, ease of use, and build quality make it a valuable addition to any workshop. Whether you're tackling DIY projects, repairs, or even some light fabrication work, this welder is more than capable of meeting your needs.