When it comes to TIG welding, choosing the right torch consumables is essential for producing clean, precise welds. Whether you're setting up a new torch or replacing parts on an existing one, it's important to understand the consumable series and how they align with different torch styles. In this guide, we'll cover 2-series consumables for 9, 20, and 24 style torches, as well as 3 series consumables for 17, 18, and 26 style torches. We'll also provide some general tips to ensure you get the correct setup for your TIG torch, so you're ready to weld efficiently.
Understanding Series and Torch Styles
TIG torches are generally categorized by amperage and the type of cooling they require--air-cooled or water-cooled. The consumables you choose will depend on your torch's style and the materials you plan to weld. Here's a breakdown of two popular series and the corresponding torch styles.
2 Series Consumables (9, 20, and 24 Style Torches)
Torch Styles: The 9, 20, and 24 style torches are often used for light-duty applications where precision is key. These torches are compact, making them ideal for welding in tight spaces or on thin materials.
Consumables: For these torches, you'll need 2-series consumables, which include collet bodies, collets, gas lenses, cups and tungsten electrodes.
- Collets and Collet Bodies: Choose the size that matches your tungsten. Common sizes range from 1/16" to 3/32".
- Gas Lens or Standard Collet Body: For better shielding gas coverage, especially in applications where minimal gas turbulence is required, opt for a gas lens setup. For general applications, a standard collet body will work.
- Nozzles/Cups: The nozzle or cup size will affect gas coverage. For precision work, a smaller cup (#4 or #5) is commonly used. Larger cups (#6 or higher) provide broader coverage for larger weld areas or stainless steel.
- Tungsten: Choose the correct tungsten type (thoriated, ceriated, lanthanated, etc.) based on the material you're welding. 2% lanthanated is a popular all-around option.
3 Series Consumables (17, 18, and 26 Style Torches)
Torch Styles: The 17, 18, and 26 style torches are more robust and can handle higher amperage. The 17, and 26 styles are typically air-cooled, while the 18 style is water-cooled.
Consumables: These torches require 3 series consumables, which are larger and designed for higher amperage welding.
- Collets and Collet Bodies: As with the 2 series, select collets based on your tungsten size. The larger size allows for better heat dissipation when welding at higher amps.
- Gas Lens or Standard Collet Body: A gas lens is highly recommended for high-amperage applications where consistent gas coverage is critical. It provides a smooth, laminar gas flow and helps reduce turbulence.
- Nozzles/Cups: Larger torch styles often use larger nozzle sizes (#6 or #7) for adequate gas coverage on thicker materials or when welding aluminum or stainless steel.
- Tungsten: Choose tungsten based on the amperage range and material. Larger diameters, like 1/8", are typically used for higher amperages.
Key Factors to Consider for TIG Torch Setup
- Amperage Range: Know the amperage range your torch will be operating in. 9 and 20 style torches are typically used for up to 150 amps, while 17 and 26 style torches can handle up to 250 amps (air cooled) or 350 amps (water-cooled).
- Material Type: The material you plan to weld (e.g., aluminum, stainless steel, carbon steel) will influence your tungsten selection. Some materials require a sharper tungsten point, while others (like aluminum) may need a balled tungsten.
- Gas Flow Rate: Proper shielding gas (usually argon) is critical for clean welds. Set the gas flow rate based on your nozzle size and material. Typically, flow rates between 15 and 20 CFH work well, but larger nozzles or certain materials may require more.
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Cooling System: For high-amperage applications, consider a water-cooled torch to prevent overheating. Air-cooled torches are more portable but may become too hot if operated at high amps for extended periods.
Selecting the Right Tungsten
We won't spend a tremendous amount of time in this post outlining how to select the correct tungsten. However, you can check out our in-depth dive into different tungsten electrodes and how to choose the right one for the job at our post here.
Choosing the right tungsten electrode is crucial for achieving optimal results in your welding projects. Explore our complete collection of Blue Demon tungsten electrodes by visiting the provided link.
Selecting the right TIG torch consumables are key to ensuring a smooth welding experience. By understanding your torch style and corresponding consumables, you'll set yourself up for success whether you're working on a light-duty project or a heavy-duty weld.
If you're still unsure about which consumables are best for your torch or need additional help setting up your TIG system, reach out to Baker's Gas and Welding. We're here to help! You can call us at 877-930-5690 or email support@bakersgas.com with any questions or requests for quotes.
