water cooled TIG torch

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I just got a water cooled TIG torch setup for my machine (Syncrowave 180SD). Oo. Oo. Oo. It absolutely rocks. Should have got one right from the start. The torch is a Miller DB20M with 25ft cables, rated for 250A. The torch that came with the machine was a Miller DB17 air cooled, rated at 150A. The new one is smaller and lighter, even with the finger controller and the cable cover installed. The cables are also way more flexible than on the air cooled torch. After a few minutes of welding with the air cooled torch it would get hot enough to burn my fingers. The new one barely even gets warm, even with the machine at full tilt.



Here's some pics of the torches and the cooler. They both have a gas lens installed and a #7 cup.



Sean



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[Boomer II]

Only way to fly

 

[Philip]

:{ :{ rub it in.

 

[HoleshotHolset]

Oh sure... . tease me with another welding toy.



Looks like you got yourself a good deal on a used unit...



I used to end up with 'hot hand syndrome' all the time while TIGging stuff. I couldn't justify the cost of a water cooled unit... if you took the jump... you can probably convince me to do the same.



Matt

 

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The difference with the water cooled torch is like night and day. The smaller size and more flexible cables make it easier to handle and gives you greater control of the weld. The arc is also more stable and seems to have more power. The water hose extensions didn't come in yet. When they do, I'll move the cooler on top of the welder so I can move them around as one unit. The finger controller is a must if you want to weld on any out of position stuff. Sure beats dragging the foot pedal around with you :-laf



All the parts for the water cooled torch setup are new. The grand total was about $850. That included:



Torch with 25ft cables

Special gas flow through type water cooled dinse connector

Cooler unit

Coolant

Extensions for the water hoses to the cooler

Cable cover



The torch came set up with a 3/32 2%Th tungsten and a #7 cup. I got all the other torch parts (gas lenses, gas lens cups, collets, etc. ) from www.weldingdepot.com They've got really good prices on torch parts, filler rods and tungstens.



Sean

 

[HoleshotHolset]

Well done!



I gotta get a setup like that, someday. Probably not until I get a garage of my own to work in.



Are you going to get a plasma cutter, or what?!



Matt