Choice of small "pencil" TIG torch for use with a foot pedal set-up

[RobK]

Hi,

I have been making some progress with learning to TIG weld. I have bought the foot-pedal to go with my Inverter Fusion ACDC-210. As it includes the micro-switch for turning on the current and HF start to the WP17 torch that I am using, I found that I could get better control of the torch and hold a more stable arc by holding the torch more like a soldering iron, or a pen, instead of holding it like a "pistol grip", as usual.

I have done a bit of surfing for a smaller (WP9 ?) alternative "straight" pencil style torches. I have found this web site:-

http://www.carmenelectrode.com/archive/2007/01/appleton-wis.html


Could anyone give meany advice on this item, or any like it that would work well with an ACDC-210 machine and a foor-pedal control?

Cheers,

Rob

 

[hotrodder]

It'll work fine (within it's amperage rating) but your hand will be directly above the weld rather than off to the side- probably be uncomfortably hot most of the time. I'd stick with a normal cranked head wp-9 or get a flex neck version for more versatility

 

[pastiche]

not sure

i have only ever used pencil torch on a few occasions and then only when a standard torch would not fit. the main problem is that you have to move whole hand more to get the weld moving rather than moving your fingers around(leaving little finger fimrly planted) and moving your hand means that it is more difficult to keep everthing constant(torch angle electode to work piece gap etc) which usually leads to inconsistent welds. also i must agree with previous post about your hand in relation to the heat( i personaly very rarely wear gloves for any welds under 100amps), i would definately recommend sticking with a standard angle torch preferable with flexible neck holding it like a pecil it is the most versatile and comfortable arrangent.

 

[Paul.]

I've got a WP9 pencil torch, hardly ever use it, your hand is always above the weld you just made, A flexible neck WP17 is much more comfortable to use, and can be used with a pistol or pencil grip.

 

[rodofgod]

Hi!

Pencil Torches like the WP9P(F) one are really for very specialised applications. In every day use, they will be a hindrance rather than an asset. Once upon a time, I thought I needed one of these and when I got it, was very dissapointed with it's usability! Nothing like what I thought it would be like! I have used it on occasion and when you need one, you need one! But for every day use, stick with the normal swan neck WP17 0r WP9!

Regards