tig torch suggestions

admin

My machine (Lincoln Aspect 230) came with a pretty cumbersome torch. I'd like to get a smaller one. Looking at this guy https://usaweld.com/collections/linc...27920195715155Or this one from Lincoln:https://www.lincolnelectric.com/en/p...k?sku=K1782-14not familiar with what is available because I have always just used what came with the machines. Is the Lincoln any better or worth the extra money? Was thinking to go Flex but never used one. Any suggestions appreciated. Thanks
Reply:I have only used Airco .But I have used a lot of  mig guns they all about same. Water cool is more flexible but pain too with water and coolants need.There a lot of tig uses and will give great advice too.Dave

Originally Posted by JamesBill

My machine (Lincoln Aspect 230) came with a pretty cumbersome torch. I'd like to get a smaller one. Looking at this guy https://usaweld.com/collections/linc...27920195715155Or this one from Lincoln:https://www.lincolnelectric.com/en/p...k?sku=K1782-14not familiar with what is available because I have always just used what came with the machines. Is the Lincoln any better or worth the extra money? Was thinking to go Flex but never used one. Any suggestions appreciated. Thanks
Reply:Yeah this will be a light air cooled torch.
Reply:and now for some advice the OP can actually use....JamesBill,Both of those TIG torches are relatively similar.   They are both 17 "sized" so they are typically rated at 150A DC.  The AC rating is sometimes "equal" but in reality the TIG torch will always heat up more on AC.  They will work for you machine, but not at full output (230A) for very long.  The torch itself will heat up, as will the internal copper conductor, but too many times at extreme temps will deteriorate the hose material at the brass fitting inside the torch handle.  Your machine came with the 26-series 25ft air cooled torch?  So long as you know you will be limited to how much amperage you can use, and that the 17 isn't that much smaller than the 26, go with the CK model from HTP (usaweld).  If you really want to shrink the size of the torch, get a 20-series swivel head, which is a water cooled torch that obviously needs a water-cooler.  With Superflex hoses, it's a whole 'nother ballgame, and with a rating of 250A DC & AC 100% duty cycle, you won't have to compromise anything.Last edited by Oscar; 6 Hours Ago at 09:35 PM.

1st on WeldingWeb to have a scrolling sig!



Reply:

Originally Posted by Oscar

and now for some advice the OP can actually use....JamesBill,Both of those TIG torches are relatively similar.   They are both 17 "sized" so they are typically rated at 150A DC.  The AC rating is sometimes "equal" but in reality the TIG torch will always heat up more on AC.  They will work for you machine, but not at full output (230A) for very long.  The torch itself will heat up, as will the internal copper conductor, but too many times at extreme temps will deteriorate the hose material at the brass fitting inside the torch handle.  Your machine came with the 26-series 25ft air cooled torch?  So long as you know you will be limited to how much amperage you can use, and that the 17 isn't that much smaller than the 26, go with the CK model from HTP (usaweld).  If you really want to shrink the size of the torch, get a 20-series swivel head, which is a water cooled torch that obviously needs a water-cooler.  With Superflex hoses, it's a whole 'nother ballgame, and with a rating of 250A DC & AC 100% duty cycle, you won't have to compromise anything.
Reply:

Originally Posted by JamesBill

My time at high amps will be limited. My machine did come with a 26 so I want a 17 so all my collets etc fit. The Lincoln torch I linked is what he compared it too but I take it from your reply the cheaper one from USA weld is also good to go. The sad thing is I have had this machine a week and didn't notice this torch was flex.