TIG back caps: short or long?
A back cap closes the rear of your TIG torch. It holds the electrode in place and makes sure the gas does not escape through the back. It looks like a small part, but you choose it based on your work. Here is how.
What does a back cap do?
- It closes the torch at the back, so the argon only goes forward to the weld pool.
- It holds the electrode and determines how far back it can go.
- It protects the inside of the torch from dirt.
Short or long?
A short back cap sticks out little behind the torch. That lets you work more compactly, for example in a tight corner or between two profiles. The electrode you use then has to be shorter, or you have to cut it down.
A long back cap has room for a full electrode of the usual length (normally 175 mm). You do not have to cut it down, and you can grind it again more often before it is used up. That is handy for long jobs, but the torch is larger at the back.
Which size fits?
Back caps come for the common torches. We have them for WP9/20 and for WP17/18/26 torches, in different sizes (small, medium and large) and versions. Always choose the size that belongs to your torch type. Read which torch you have if you are not sure.
What else to look for?
- Wear: the rubber ring in the back cap keeps the gas from leaking away. If it is worn, you notice leakage or an unsteady gas flow.
- Material: teflon back caps are unbreakable and heat resistant. You use them, for example, where a normal back cap would break if dropped.
See the parts
See our back caps, together with the cups and gas lenses. Not sure which one fits your torch? Use our selection guide or send us a message via the contact page.