Maxstar 161 Stl TIG and Stick Welder

The Miller Maxstar 161 STL is a DC-only Stick and TIG power source: it will not TIG weld aluminum, and the Ready Pak as sold does not include a TIG torch, so budget for one separately. Miller kept it light at 13 lbs with auto-line 120V/240V cords, so the input plug matches whatever outlet is on site.

Three steps to a setting

Setup follows the same pattern on every current Maxstar: press the menu button to pick a process, hold it for a second to reach the parameter menu, then turn the encoder to adjust the number on the digital meter. That digital interface and a wider amperage range are what separate the 161 STL from the older Maxstar 150 it replaces.

Output by voltage

• Stick: 20-90A on 120V, 20-160A on 240V
• TIG: 5-130A on 120V, 5-160A on 240V
• Material thickness: .020-3/16″ steel, or 5/32″ electrodes
• Duty cycle: 30% at 90A on 120V, 20% at 160A on 240V

A pulse feature is reserved for Miller's STH models, so this base 161 STL runs without it. The upgraded shoulder strap and handle, and extra room inside the X-Case, round out the changes from the previous generation. At 13 lbs and 10.3″H by 5.6″W by 13.5″D, it is rated across Beginner, Weekend Warrior, and Career Welder skill levels for home, hobby, industrial, and light-industrial work, and Miller covers it with a manufacturer's warranty.

Will this weld aluminum? No, the Maxstar 161 STL is DC only, so it will not TIG weld aluminum. Does it come with a TIG torch? No, this package does not include one.

Specifications