Furick 2 Series TIG Parts FAQs
Cups, gas lenses, diffusers, O-rings and cup kits for a TIG torch, and how to match and look after them.
What is a gas lens and how is it different from a standard collet body?
A standard collet body releases shielding gas through small side holes, which can make the flow turbulent. A gas lens holds the collet in the same way but passes the gas through fine mesh screens, which produces a smoother, more uniform flow.
Trade guidance says a gas lens lets the tungsten extend further out of the cup while keeping good gas cover, and a gas lens usually needs its own matching cups. It is made for the same torch style as the standard part, so check the fit before ordering, and fit the collet size that matches the electrode.
How do I choose a cup size?
Cups are sized by the diameter of the opening, usually in sixteenths of an inch, so the bigger the number, the bigger the opening. A larger diameter and a longer cup generally give a longer smooth column of gas and better shielding. A smaller cup suits tight access, but it speeds the gas up and can make the flow more turbulent.
Gas lens cups and standard cups are different designs, so use the type that matches your collet body. Choose the largest cup that still lets you see and reach the joint, and adjust the gas flow to suit rather than just increasing it.
What are the pros and cons of clear glass cups compared with ceramic?
The main benefit of a clear heat-resistant glass cup is that you can see the electrode and the weld pool through it, which helps in corners and tight spots. The drawbacks are that glass is more brittle than ceramic, can cloud with fume deposits and heat, and the visibility benefit matters less with larger cups and longer electrode extensions.
Some welders keep a ceramic cup as a spare for general work. Handle glass with care, avoid dragging or knocking it, and replace any cup that is cracked, chipped or badly clouded. Check that the cup is designed for your collet body or gas lens and torch style.
What does a diffuser do, and how do I know when it needs replacing?
A diffuser spreads the shielding gas evenly as it leaves the torch, so the gas settles around the electrode instead of jetting out unevenly. Like the collet body, it must match the torch style and the tungsten diameter.
Replace a diffuser or gas lens that is blocked, cracked, loose, damaged or heavily contaminated, because poor gas distribution lets air into the weld zone. Signs include dull or discoloured welds, porosity or a tungsten that wears and oxidises quickly. Always remove the electrode and cool the torch before changing parts.