By Clare Goldsberry, Associate Editor

Weldcraft (www.weldcraft.com) has developed a series of gas tungsten arc welding torches designed for intricate TIG welding applications that require improved joint access.

Weldcraft said its WP-24 TIG torch series includes three air-cooled torches: the WP-24 (standard), WP24F (Flexible neck), and WP-24FV (flexible neck, valved combination), each of which is rated at 80 amps at 60 percent duty cycle. A water-cooled version, the WP-24W is also available and is rated at 180 amps at 100 percent duty cycle. The company said these torches provide improved quality for challenging applications.

The WP-24 series is designed with a well-balanced, featherweight torch body that has an insulating gasket to prevent shielding gas leakage. Weldcraft said the components increase operator comfort and control, while helping to minimize discontinuities in welds. Each torch is 7 1/2 in. long and features a 3/4-in. diameter handle. The size of the torches was planned to provide comfort for the welder, and ease of maneuvering. The torches are in 60-degree or 90-degree head angles to increase access into tight areas.

Mike Sammons, sales engineer for Weldcraft, said these torches are suitable for the smaller and lighter components that are being designed for products in many market segments.

The company also has a torch – its MT-25 product – that is designed for micro-gas tungsten arc welding, Sammons said. That torch is being used in shipbuilding and aerospace applications, he said.

The WP-24F torch includes a flexible neck that bends in any direction to further improve operator comfort and to maneuver into challenging welding angles or tight areas. For welding operators who want increased flexibility and gas flow control, Weldcraft's WP-24FV is available.

For higher amperage applications that require access into confined areas, the WP-24W offers an efficient cooling system without adding to the torch's size, and it's one of the smallest water-cooled TIG torches on the market.

The air-cooled WP-24 torches are available with Weldcraft's Mono-Flex cable, and the WP-24W torch features durable Tri-Flex(tm) hoses and cables. All torch cable packages are available in 12 1/2- or 25-foot lengths.

Lincoln-Electric combines MIG and TIG welders
The Lincoln Electric Company (www.lincolnelectric.com) has combined its small MIG and TIG welders into one package.

The company has put its trademarked Precision TIG 225 and its new Power MIG 140C welders into a portable and complete MIG, TIG and stick welding solution.

The company said its Lincoln Precision TIG 225/ Power MIG 140C One-Pak includes everything a welder needs for MIG and TIG and stick welding. It is targeting the combination welding unit at markets in general fabrication, automotive and other motor sports, for vocational schools, for hobby work, home projects and repair, sheet metal, farm and small shop welding.