How to Properly Assemble Your Welding Torch

Welding is the foundation of any steel fabrication project at a company like Bronson Sheetmetal Fabrications Pty Ltd. Thus, the welding torch is essentially the key to reshaping metal. With this in mind, here is a full guide to assembling your torch so that it performs properly during use.

Knowing your torch

There are two primary types of torches that are used on steel fabrication projects, air and water-cooled models. The air-cooled torch is significantly bigger than water types, making them better suited for use outside and with projects that require less amps. Water-cooled torches should be used inside, away from external properties like wind, sun, and other natural elements.

The water-cooled torches are smaller because they have a coolant that is constantly pumping through the equipment to remove heat, which makes them typically easier to handle for longer periods of time. Air-cooled torches on the other hand, are larger because they need air and gas to cool the torch down. The additional space and weight of the torch, allows it to create air throughout the system to properly cool it.

Assembling your torch

No matter if you have an air or water-cooled torch, the assembly steps are always the same. For this process, you should have a collet, collet body, tungsten electrode, nozzle, and either a rubber or vinyl hose (depending on your preference). All parts should be thoroughly cleaned and there should be no dust particles or debris present. Assembling your torch with excess dust and debris can prevent the tool from performing properly.

First, attach the collet to the collet body, before inserting them into the tungsten electrode. There should be absolutely no room for the collet to move within the tungsten, so you'll want to ensure that it's a tight fit. Additional movement is a sign that one of the two parts may need to be interchanged with another component that will fit tighter. A loose fit will result in poor conductivity and an unstable arc. Next, insert the assembled collet, collet body, and tungsten, into the torch body. Once the parts are secured in place, tighten the back cap. Add the nozzle to your assembly, adjusting the tungsten so that it protrudes beyond the nozzle.

Before use, make sure that all components appear to be securely tightened. From this point, you may attach your hose to the end of the torch and fire it up. Be sure that you give a light squeeze and text the assembly before extended use.