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Spare gas lens parts for this TIG torch: what each one does, how to pick the right one and how to look after it.
A standard collet body passes the shielding gas out through a few small holes, so the flow can become turbulent as it leaves the cup. A gas lens replaces the collet body and spreads the gas through fine mesh screens, giving a smoother, more even (laminar) flow around the tungsten and weld.The collet still holds the tungsten in both cases. A gas lens is generally chosen for demanding or high-quality work, while a standard collet body is usually fine for non-critical or practice welding.
With a standard collet body the tungsten is normally kept within the inside diameter of the cup. Because a gas lens gives a steadier column of gas, the tungsten can usually extend further than that, which helps with access to tight joints and gives a better view of the weld pool.How far is acceptable depends on the cup size, the current, any draughts in your workplace and the torch maker's instructions, which often assume draught-free conditions. Build up gradually, and shorten the stick-out if the weld shows discolouration or porosity.
Not necessarily. Too much gas makes the flow turbulent and can pull air into the shield, while too little leaves the weld pool and hot tungsten unprotected. The usual advice is to use the lowest flow that gives good coverage for the job and conditions.Larger cups generally need more gas than small ones, and moving air or outdoor work may need more again. Start from the torch maker's guidance, then adjust by checking the finished weld.
All arc welding gives off ultraviolet radiation. The main risk to the eyes is arc eye, a painful inflammation of the cornea that usually appears hours later, and unprotected skin can be burned much like sunburn. Use a correctly graded welding filter in a helmet, heavy dark clothing and gloves that cover the wrist.Anyone working close to the arc needs the same protection, or the area should be screened off. Choose equipment according to your risk assessment and the maker's instructions.
Yes, fume control matters. All welding fume, including mild steel fume, can cause lung cancer, and suitable engineering controls, typically local exhaust ventilation (LEV), are expected for welding done indoors. General ventilation alone does not achieve the control needed. Respiratory protective equipment is added where extraction alone does not adequately control exposure.This applies however short the welding task is. Stainless steel fume can contain additional hazardous components such as chromium compounds, so plan the extraction and any respiratory protection as part of your risk assessment rather than relying on open doors.
A typical set has a gas lens body, a collet, a cup, a back cap and an insulator (sometimes called a heat shield). The collet grips the tungsten, and the back cap holds it firmly and keeps air from leaking into the torch head. The gas lens body replaces the standard collet body and passes the gas through its mesh screens. The cup directs that gas onto the weld.The insulator fits between the body and the torch head. Check your torch manual for exactly what your set includes.