I need advice choosing a small tig torch for my pp256

Hi,
I want to replace the stock tig torch that came with my pp256. I don't tig over 100 amps so I don't use a water cooler.

I looking at a wp9 with a flexible head and need to clarify my choices. I'm hoping the member can help me out. I want the the cable and cords to be small and light weight. Like I mentioned, it will be air cooled.

Weldingdirect.com sells a wp9 with either 1 or 2 pc hoses. Can I use this 1 piece cable torch at http://weldingdirect.com/srflexheadto.html and then use this dinse connector?
http://weldingdirect.com/flowconwitsi.html

Finally, some torches have a built in valve in the handle. I'm not sure what this is for or if I really need this feature.
Thank you all in advance,

Rod
San Francisco

You don't need (or even want) the built in handle valve. Those are really not a good idea for machines that have a gas flow control solenoid in them, like your PP256 has. If you got it, it would just give your handle extra weight and extra bulkiness from the knob.

I am a bit perplexed why you would never use a PP256 over 100 amps, but hey if that's really going to be your case (not only now but also in the future) I agree you might as well go with a WP9.

If you want the smallest, most flexible cord, I'd recommend a CK Worldwide torch with their "superflex" one-piece cable upgrade option.

The CK Worldwide TIG torches have a larger than industry standard cup insulator, (which is arguably slightly more bulky and a little less user friendly IMO), but they also have a much higher than normal power rating for their size compared to comparable industry standard torches of the same class.

I have a CK Worldwide Trimline 210, capable of 200 amps @ 100% duty cycle AC or DC, and I just love it. The superflex cable on it is about as flexible and nimble as a standard (non CK, non-superflex) one-piece WP9 or WP17 cable. Due to the larger sized copper conductor inside, it is a little bit noticeably heavier than a standard one-piece WP9/WP17 cable though.

I can't help but recommend you get a TIG torch that matches your machine's peak output though. Who knows, maybe sometime you may want to use your machine to its fullest, right? The CK Trimline 210 torch withe "superflex" calbe I got is basically the highest power air cooled torch on the market, and also is still reasonably nimble. I highly recommend it if you want to avoid the complexity and cost of a watercooled setup. It is not particularly expensive either. I got mine with 12' cable and flex head about about $110. Hope this helps

jakeru,
Where did you get your ck torch for only $110?

I agree, 200ams may be better in the long run. I tig thin walled 4130 tubing and rarely go over 100 amps.

I assume you have the 1 cable torch, but what dinse connector are you using?

Rod

I will second the super flex cables - matched up with a ck200... check out arc zone they had the beat prices on the ck setup.

Is it reasonable to think that a 1 piece cable is small/lighter than the 2 piece cable option? Or is the 1 piece cable just as thick as 2 piece?


Everlast has a WP20 torch, but there is no link on the website. Anybody have one and can post a picture?

Rod

I dont know where I read it, but when I researching cables I read that the 1 piece hose was not as flexable at the 3 part hose for the water cooled torches

I got it from my local welding supply, "Central Welding." I do have a decent account/discount with them however, and it was also a special order (I just gave them the CK part number I wanted.) They tend to have better pricing on CK stuff than any online outfit I've come across. However, getting price quotes from them is like pulling teeth. They usually have to phone CK and call me me at a later date. :mad:

They do have an online ordering web site branch, here (which I have never used, FWIW):
http://www.welders-direct.com/

I don't use a DINSE connector for my TIG torch setup. My older mosfet everlast machine's gas out fitting is designed to conduct electricity so the aircooled torch lead just makes one connection to it; it's called an "inert arc fitting". I only use the Negative DINSE connector if I am stick welding (very rare.) The pic should explain how it connects.
Attachment 1902

You might consider treating yourself to a CK "flex loc" torch if you are welding lots of roll cage tubing. It can have its angle adjusted repeatedly, and to more extremes than a flex head torch can. It does cost more though. They come in small and large consumables, air and water cooled.