TIG cup or gas lens: which to choose?
You can TIG weld with a standard cup or with a gas lens. Both work, but they do not do the same thing. Here you can read the difference and when which choice suits your work.
What does a standard cup do?
A standard TIG cup directs the argon around the electrode to the weld pool. The gas flow is a little more turbulent, because the gas leaves the torch body through a few holes. For a lot of work that is fine: standard steel, indoors, without a draught.
What does a gas lens do?
A gas lens has a fine mesh or several screens in the inner part. This makes the gas leave calmly and evenly, like a wide, quiet shield. With the same amount of gas you cover more surface. That gives a cleaner weld and more room to let the electrode stick out further from the cup.
The comparison
- Gas flow: a standard cup is more turbulent, a gas lens gives a calm, even flow.
- Gas coverage: normal with a standard cup, wider and better with a gas lens.
- Electrode stick-out: short with a standard cup, longer possible with a gas lens.
- Draught: a standard cup is more sensitive, a gas lens less so.
- Price: a standard cup is cheaper, a gas lens more expensive.
When do you choose which?
A standard cup is enough for:
- standard welding on steel in a sheltered workshop;
- work where you keep the torch close to the workpiece;
- beginners who want to keep costs low.
You choose a gas lens for:
- stainless and titanium, where good gas coverage matters;
- corners and awkward spots, where you want the electrode to stick out further;
- work outdoors or in a draught;
- anyone who wants a cleaner, brighter weld.
What fits my torch?
Our cups and gas lenses are made for WP9/20 torches. If you have a WP17, WP18 or WP26 torch, you need an adapter. Read which gas lens fits your torch and how to choose the right cup size.
See the parts
See our cups, gas lenses and diffusers and the complete sets. Not sure what you need? Use our selection guide or send us a message via the contact page.