TIG welding has been gaining popularity among welders due to the benefits associated with it. But, of course, you should use the best equipment, including a TIG welding torch, to make it flawless and comfortable. As the TIG process is quite dependant on manual dexterity, a TIG torch is essential and plays a critical role. So under no circumstances should we make the mistake of choosing the best TIG torch, ideal for every condition.
We will look at 6 excellent torches, each coming with unique features and benefits. Weldtec Speedway SW-320SA-25DX TIG Torch Kit is the best among those with its water-cooled system, flex head, and the long leads. Miller WeldCraft 366-WP-20-25 Water-Cooled TIG Torch Kit is the runner up. It might not be a high-end torch, but it tops as a beginner welding equipment. Considering the range of accessories and performance, it is worth buying. For details, you may go through the Best TIG torch review!
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1. Weldtec Speedway SW-320SA-25DX TIG Torch Kit
As our top choice, the model is among the famous and loved on the market. With professional design, craft, and materials, you are guaranteed of unique and excellent performance that any top-notch welding torch can offer. Even though the top quality is in many cases associated with high cost, this is not the case with this wonderful tool.
An unmatched water cooling mechanism helps in maintaining low temperatures as you weld. With the cooling feature, you can work for longer hours at a high amperage and still feel the coolness of the machine. The copper construction gives room for better current capacity and quick heat dissipation.
Many welders' love regarding the tool is the flexibility and maneuverability of the rubber hose and power cable that ensures your free movement when working. With the tool, you need not move the welder.
What we like
- Offers longer welding hours
- Durable
- Quality make
- Flexible torch head
- Comfortable
What we didn’t like
- Pricey
2. Miller WeldCraft 366-WP-20-25 Water-Cooled TIG Torch Kit
Many TIG welders prefer the WP-20 since the standard torch can run up to around 250A. Most parts are compatible with various WP models, making it versatile for both novice and professional welders.
A Flexi-head added with a long & flexible cable will help you weld at any position and move freely. High-maneuverability and easier control with on/off gas valve help to boost the operational quality. On top of that, its handles offer a comfy grip that puts fatigue at bay.
You do not face problem to fit the torch head even on the tighter corners. Everyone wishing for a tool that is easy and flexible to work with; this is the ideal choice.
What we like
- It’s a quality and complete TIG torch
- Sturdy head with a cooling system
- Can maintain a comfortable head when working
- Long cable for flexibility
What we didn’t like
- The hose comes with sturdy PVC which makes it hot when you use for longer hours
- Pricier
3. CK Worldwide FL1512VSF Air-Cooled TIG Torch Kit
Clients always expect the best from their companies of choice, and this product from CK Worldwide does not disappoint. It’s an exceptional air-cooled torch that makes it possible to work outdoors for long hours. A 12.5 feet long cable can cover a larger area to make sure you can weld on medium distances.
The tool delivers about 150A that is ideal for light welding applications. This is an excellent tool to use if you intend to undertake an application that involves the use of unique angles. Since it’s a Flexi head tool, you can lock it on any position at 360 degrees. The ergonomic design eliminates fatigue on the hands and does not heat up quickly.
Even though the tool is flexible, it also guarantees superb durability. Its head incorporates a sturdy design and material and flexible to fit into various sizes and conformations you would like.
What we like
- Sturdy construction
- Ergonomic
- Flexible torch head
What we didn’t like
- Pricier
4. CK Worldwide CK17-25-RSF FX Air-Cooled TIG Torch Kit
As an air-cooled torch, the tool is designed to boost comfort and durability. Due to the flexibility, you can use the tool efficiently in any position. Other than the cable's flexibility, it also comes with sturdy silicone hose and nylon over braid that boosts its capacity to withstand wear and tear.
What we like
- Comfortable
- Flexible
- Innovative design
- Durable
- Lightweight
What we didn’t like
- Does not have a gas valve
- The lead isn’t long enough which leads to challenges when accessing further ends
5. Masterweld WP20-25R TIG Torch Kit
Another great welding torch is the Master Weld WP20-25R. While the tool is made especially for professional welders, it incorporates simple construction that makes it ideal for beginners. It incorporates quality rubber hoses that hardly wear off.
Heat can make your work uncomfortable or lead to wears on some parts of the torch. However, the water-cooling mechanism available on the tool adds to its durability. The mechanism also makes it possible to weld for longer hours without pausing as you wait for the torch to cool down.
What we like
- Comfortable
- Durable
- User-friendly
- Long lead
What we didn’t like
- Most users say the head is somehow rigid
- Some people report issues with the lead cover quality
6. Reboot WP17FV TIG Welding Torch Gun
The torch is comfortable and comes with a flexible head that flexes to various positions for the welding diversity. It might not be the most quality one since you cannot weld over 150 amps before heating it. However, with the fewer amps, the cooling system may help in making it weld nicely.
The lead length is no very huge, but being a 13 ft. Long makes it ideal for covering a reasonable distance. Incorporating a manual gas valve, meaning it’s not an automatic gas feeder and works well.
What we like
- Air-cooled ideal length
- Comfortable
- Durable
- Flexible head
What we didn’t like
- Manual gas dial
- Heats up faster
Types of TIG Torch
TIG torches are available in two different types: air-cooled and water-cooled.
Air-Cooled
An air-cooled TIG torch uses no liquid to cool it down once it gets hot. The heat reduces gradually into the air. This model is preferred for outdoor use since you may have no close water supply.
Water-Cooled
A water-cooled TIG welding torch is the one that uses a liquid coolant that passes via plastic tubing to maintain the coolness of the torch. If you work on areas with higher temperatures, this is the torch to get.
Benefits of TIG Torch
TIG torch uses fewer amps
Less amperage is beneficial to welders, especially those working with thinner metal bars. With low amperage, you get better control over your output.
Produces clean results
During welding, you may notice slags that occur as a result of poor welding techniques or contamination. Usually, you may need to clean the slags for better results. However, with TIG torch welding, you will never experience slags.
Maneuverability
TIG torches offer maximum maneuverability and portability. It offers control when creating complex designs. Since it uses minimal amperage, you get total control over the project. Most torches are thin with a pen-like design; you can access the furthest corners.
Comfortable
They come with a comfortable grip to ensure that every use never feels discomfort when working. Since they are long enough, you can work long-distance without carrying the welder. Comfort is one thing that attracts many to the tool, which adds to its popularity.
Best Brands for TIG Torch
Weldtec Speedway
The company strives to offer the best quality torches. They are compatible with most TIG power source lines present in the markets today. Being the USA made tool, you can trust in their performance.
Miller WeldCraft
Miller WeldCraft tools are renowned for their unique performance. The torches are made and tested to make sure they are compatible with miller TIG welders. Designed and made in the US, they incorporate quality copper alloys, which can withstand tough use and high temperatures.
Buyer’s Guide - Things to Look for in a Best Quality TIG Torch
Compare Amperage
Even if almost every TIG torch uses low amperage, they use different amps. With that in mind, it is crucial to compare the amps before choosing the ideal one. Amps determine the torches’ performances depending on the needs. If your projects need below 200 amps, an air-cooled tool is the ideal one. However, if you are after more amperage, you may need to choose a water-cooled one.
Flexibility
In most cases, welding involves working on joints in various angles and positions. That is why the choice of the welding tool depends on the type of work you wish to undertake. If you usually work in tight areas, flexibility is a crucial factor to keep in mind.
Comfort
TIG welding involves working for extended hours. Since one will hold the tool for a long time, you need to have a torch that fits and is comfortable on the hands. It’s also good to make sure that it is lightweight and maneuverable for that crucial comfort.
Cooling Method
As stated earlier, we have two types of cooling methods, which are air-cooled and water-cooled. Depending on where you are working, whether indoors or outdoors, you need to consider the cooling method. If working outdoors, air-cooled one is the ideal while working indoors where you have water; water-cooled one is better.
Durability
You wouldn’t wish to invest in a TIG torch, only for it to wear after months. It’s good to choose a tool that lasts long and withstand tough use. Therefore, before buying the torch, check the material to know if it is durable enough to withstand the work.
Hose length
Choosing the hose length will depend on your project. If the project involves lots of movements to further ends, you may need to select the one with a longer hose. That will make it easy to cover a larger area without carrying the welder around.
Head style
The heads come in various designs that determine their adjustability. A flex head is the common one since you can adjust it to various angles. Such a head is also bendable to access all directions. If your welding project incorporates multiple positions, you will find such a head useful.
How to Setup and Use a TIG Torch Properly?
- Connect the torch- being the first step, you need to use the adapter available in the accessory package to plug the torch on the obverse side of the welding machine.
- Connecting the remote control- at this point, connect the fingertip control in the machine
- Connect work clamp- plug one end on the machine and the other one on your work table/piece
- Choose polarity-if working on aluminum, switch the amperage to AC but for steel or other materials, set to DCEN
- Prepare tungsten-It’s time to grind the tungsten, and if using aluminum, it will start by forming a ball.
- Assembling the torch-the collet and its body should be put back into the torch and make it tighter. After that, return the nozzle to the torch.
- Install Tungsten- put back the tungsten into the collet
- Inspect and connect power- it’s good to ensure the current power supply matches the machine rating.
Air-Cooled vs. Water-Cooled - Which is better?
Both cooling methods are suitable, but the air-cooled ones are popular due to their easy setup, affordability, and comfort. Their maintenance is also lower compared to the water-cooled one. Instead of pumping the coolant into the torch, the heat slowly goes to the air.
Can You Use a Water-Cooled TIG Torch without Water?
No, since they need constant water flow, they are not perfect for outdoor use, especially if you have no water. If working outdoors, the air-cooled one is the most suitable.
Concluding Remarks
TIG welding is gaining popularity in industrial welding. Even though it calls for practice, time, and preparation than most welding methods, it’s not hard to do. As long as you get the best TIG torch and the right welding machine, you will become a skilled welder. If you pick any of the products on our list, you will not encounter any problem since they are highly rated for better results.
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