[mobile1]

When is a water-cooled torch used with TIG welding?

[GreinTime]

When you weld for long periods of time or long weld beads. You can increase the amperage rating of a torch because the water provides the cooling as opposed to the argon.

[MinnesotaDave]

When is a water-cooled torch used with TIG welding?

Welding aluminum requires more amps, plus AC heats up the torch more.

So once you start doing a lot of aluminum over 1/8" it's time for a water cooled torch.

I've ruined several torches and am now going water cooled.

[Bill Beauregard]

Water cooled torches take advantage of the return flow of coolant to limit the temperature of the torch lead. Copper is heavy! A smaller wire does the job if kept cool. Water cooled torches are smaller, weigh less, and you may not need as heavy a glove. The down side is noise from the cooler.

[Wes917]

For me always, I have an air cooled in the event the welder leaves the house so I don't have to take the cooler, but hate using it