Page 141 - Welding of Aluminium and its Alloys

126 The welding of aluminium and its alloys

7.10 Exploded view of a typical MIG torch: A ergonomically shaped
handle; B contact tip, C gas shroud, D gas diffuser, E power cable
connector, F umbilical containing gas hose, power cable and control
cable, G power switch, H replaceable liner, I adjustable nozzle.
Courtesy of Bernard Welding Equipment Company.

welding current cable, shield gas hose, cooling water delivery and return
hoses and the electrical control cables. At the same time the torch must
not be made so heavy and cumbersome that the welder cannot easily
manipulate the torch with a minimum of effort. A well-designed torch
therefore needs to be lightweight, robust and easily maintained and the
umbilical cable needs to be light and flexible. It is most important if con-
sistent quality is to be achieved that the welder is provided with the best
torch available.