Fronius TTG1600 TIG Torches FAQs
Answers on choosing, setting up and looking after a gas-cooled manual TIG torch in the lower amperage class.
Is a gas-cooled torch enough, or do I need a water-cooled one?
For intermittent or light-to-medium current work, a gas-cooled torch is usually enough. It relies on the surrounding air and the shielding gas for cooling, so it needs no radiator or coolant and is simpler to set up, maintain and move around the workshop.
The trade-off is that the cable is generally heavier and stiffer because it carries more copper, and the handle can become tiring on long welds. If you weld at higher currents for long periods, a water-cooled torch becomes the better choice. Compare your typical current and arc-on time with the torch rating and duty cycle.
When do I need a torch with a gas valve in the handle?
A valved torch lets you switch the shielding gas on and off at the handle. It is mainly needed when the welding machine has no gas solenoid of its own to control the flow. Without a solenoid, gas would run continuously from the regulator.
If your machine already controls the gas, a standard torch without a valve is the usual match. Check your machine manual to see whether it switches the gas, and tell us the machine type if you want help matching a torch to it.
What is a flexible torch body for, and are there downsides?
A flexible-neck torch can be bent to the angle you need, which helps with limited joint access and awkward positions where a rigid body will not reach comfortably. It is often chosen for tube, corners and fabrication in tight spaces.
The neck is usually adjusted by hand, so it is worth setting it once for the job rather than flexing it repeatedly, as repeated bending can eventually wear it. Check the manual for the maker's guidance on bend limits. For open, flat work a rigid body is often more stable and easier to control.
Does a longer torch lead make a difference?
A longer lead gives more reach from the machine, so you can work further from it without moving the equipment. The trade-offs are usually more weight and bulk to manage, and more cable to keep tidy so it does not kink or get trodden on.
A shorter lead is generally lighter and easier to handle where you are close to the machine. Choose the length that matches how far you actually work from the machine, and keep any remote control leads and the gas hose in mind, as they may need to reach as well. Check the maker's data for any model-specific limits.