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Lincoln TIG Torches

Lincoln TIG Torches FAQs

Air-cooled, water-cooled, flexible-neck and gas-valve TIG torches with control plugs, and how to choose, connect and look after them.

What does the duty cycle rating on a TIG torch mean?icon-minus-redicon-plus-red

Duty cycle is the percentage of a 10-minute period that the torch can be used at a given current without overloading. A torch might be rated at one current for a stated duty cycle, so a higher duty cycle means it can weld for longer before it needs a rest.

Two torches with similar current ratings can have different duty cycles, so look at both figures together. Choose a torch with a rating that comfortably covers the current and the arc-on time of your real work, and check the torch's data label and manual for the figures that apply.

What happens if I weld above my torch's rating?icon-minus-redicon-plus-red

Running a torch above its rated current reduces the duty cycle it can sustain, so it overheats sooner, and the margin can disappear quickly.

An overloaded air-cooled torch gets hot in the handle and at the head, which is uncomfortable and wears the consumables, seals and cable faster. If you regularly need more than the rating, step up to a higher-rated torch, or a water-cooled one, rather than pushing a smaller torch harder. Take breaks to let it cool if you are close to its limit.

What extra equipment does a water-cooled TIG torch need?icon-minus-redicon-plus-red

A water-cooled torch needs a cooling unit (a radiator and pump) that circulates coolant through the torch head and back along the cable. An air-cooled torch does not need this.

The cooler has to be compatible with the torch and the power source, with the coolant hoses connected the right way round. Many cooling units can switch the machine off, or stop it welding, if the coolant flow stops, but check what yours does. Your machine and cooler manuals will tell you how to connect them and what coolant to use.

What should I check on a water-cooled torch before welding?icon-minus-redicon-plus-red

Before striking an arc, turn on the cooler, check the hoses are tight, then look for leaks while the coolant is circulating. Also look over the torch, cable, hoses and connectors for damage, and check the coolant level and that nothing is blocking the radiator.

A leak is an electric shock risk as well as a cooling problem, so do not weld with a leaking torch or hose. Replace suspect parts. Water-cooled torches should be inspected often, and blockages or leaks can lead to overheating, torch damage and burns.

How do I connect the torch to the machine correctly?icon-minus-redicon-plus-red

Tighten the torch connectors as the manual says, so they are snug. Loose connectors can overheat and can leak gas or coolant.

On a water-cooled torch, connect the coolant inlet and outlet hoses to the correct ports, because crossed connections can make the torch overheat. Where the torch has a separate gas connection, connect the gas hose too. Always follow your machine's instructions as well, as connector styles and layouts vary between makes and models, and switch off before connecting.

Is it safe to change the tungsten or gas cup with the machine switched on?icon-minus-redicon-plus-red

No. Switch off the power source before changing the tungsten electrode or the gas cup, because pressing the torch switch by accident could start the arc. On machines with high-frequency start that also means a high-voltage pulse, which can give a shock if your body forms part of the circuit.

Use dry, undamaged gloves and insulating footwear and keep clear of the work. A torch that has been repaired with insulating tape should be replaced, not used. Follow the manufacturer's instructions and your own risk assessment.