For operators of any arc welding process, welding torches are a critical part of the equation. A welding torch is part of the creation of an electrical arc for getting metals fused together, and as the torch is one of the more hands-on elements of the process, quality makes a difference.

You can find TIG, MIG or plasma welding torches for sale online along with an abundance for other welding supplies like electrodes, rods and wires, shielding gases, safety gear or a portable welding torch. Business managers might look for gas welding torch models in situations like these:

1. Before starting up a new "floor process" for product roll-outs where welding cutting torch models or welding torch parts are on the shopping list.

2. For use in a shop where maintenance workers may need to patch together aging equipment with welding torches.

3. For adding a greater number of operators to the mix in an existing welding shop going full-speed ahead.

Action Steps
The best contacts and resources to help you get it done

Get manual welding torches

For many welding operations, you can't do without operators. Human guidance is necessary for lots of specialized, precision welding work, especially in Tungsten Inert Gas welding (TIG), a common type of welding process where metals are fused together without adding 'filler.' For difficult TIG processes and any non-standardized welding, you'll need manual torches your operators will use on the floor.

I recommend: Get lots of manual welding torches or welding torch kit offers at W. W. Grainger Inc: "For the ones who get it done." Get more brand-name welding torches and equipment at Northern Tool + Equipment Catalog Co., where you can browse product lines on the company's web page.

Buy 'automatic' welding torch models and accessories for auto welding

For some jobs, you can set up welding operations to be partially or fully automated. Automatic welding torches come with racks to hold the torch in the event you will not be using a human operator. Some vendors have made inroads into offering robotic welding systems online.

I recommend: Technocrat Engineers will help you get tools for automated welding solutions with multiple torch systems and more. Get Harris automatic torch handles and products and a lot more from welding superstore Airgas, Inc.

Find welding torches for underwater welding

For nautical welding and some other commercial projects, you'll want torches you can take below sea level to do welding underwater. Browse product lines from online distributors for portable welding torches you can use for submerged operations.

I recommend: Get popular "Sea Torch" models from Thermadyne, a comprehensive online welding shop carrying tools from various big manufacturers. You can search for more gear for submerged arc and MIG operations at Gullco, an international welding supplier.

Tips & Tactics

Helpful advice for making the most of this Guide

• •  Look at size factors. Your industrial welding torches need to fit the diameter of the electrode as well as the size compatibility for shielding gases. Figure out the logistics of your process before buying torches, electrodes, gases and the rest, and if possible, make a single purchase to ensure all of the gear is compatible.