Stubby std Tig Cup

A stubby TIG cup is a shorter version of a standard ceramic nozzle used on a TIG welding torch. Its primary function, like any TIG cup, is to direct the flow of shielding gas around the tungsten electrode and the weld pool to protect it from atmospheric contamination. The key difference lies in its reduced length.

Key Features and Benefits of the Stubby Design:

• Improved Access in Tight Spaces: The shorter profile allows the welder to access confined or awkward welding joints where a longer, standard cup would be obstructive.
• Enhanced Visibility: By reducing the overall size of the torch head, a stubby cup can offer a slightly clearer view of the weld puddle and the arc, which is particularly beneficial for intricate work.
• Closer Proximity to the Workpiece: The shorter length enables the welder to hold the torch closer to the weld, potentially improving arc control and stability in certain situations.
• Lighter and More Maneuverable: A smaller cup contributes to a slightly lighter and more balanced torch head, reducing hand fatigue during extended welding sessions.

Materials and Sizes:

• Material: Stubby TIG cups are typically made from alumina ceramic, known for its excellent heat resistance and electrical insulation properties, similar to standard cups. Some specialized clear cups made of materials like Pyrex are also available in stubby designs for improved visibility.
• Sizes: Stubby cups are available in various orifice sizes, denoted by a number corresponding to the diameter in sixteenths of an inch (e.g., #4, #5, #6, #7, #8, #10). The specific sizes available will depend on the manufacturer and the torch series they are designed for (common series include WP9, WP17, WP18, WP20, and WP26).

Usage:

Stubby TIG cups thread onto a compatible collet body of the same torch series. They can be used with standard collet bodies or, often to further enhance the compact nature and gas flow, with stubby gas lens kits. A gas lens incorporates fine mesh screens to create a more laminar (smooth) flow of shielding gas, which can be beneficial even with a shorter cup.

In summary, a stubby TIG cup is a shorter ceramic nozzle designed to improve access, visibility, and maneuverability when TIG welding in restricted spaces. It provides the necessary shielding gas coverage and is available in various sizes to suit different applications and torch series.