What is a gas lens and when do you need one?

A gas lens is a part in your TIG torch that makes the shielding gas flow more calmly and evenly. Many welders only realise how much difference it makes once they try one. This is how it works and when you need one.

What does a gas lens do?

In an ordinary collet body the gas flows out quite turbulently. A gas lens has one or more fine mesh screens. They turn the rough gas flow into a calm, straight flow. A calm flow holds together longer and protects the weld pool over a greater length.

Why would you use one?

• Better gas coverage. A calmer gas flow covers the weld pool better. That matters on stainless steel, titanium and aluminium.
• Longer electrode stick-out. You can let the electrode stick out of the cup further, for example in corners and awkward spots, and still keep gas where it is needed.
• Better visibility. The longer stick-out lets you see more of the weld pool.
• Often less gas needed. Because the gas is used better, in many cases you can get the same coverage at a lower gas flow.

When do you need one?

For simple welding in steel, a standard collet body often works fine. A gas lens pays off when gas coverage is critical or when you work with a long electrode stick-out. Think of titanium, visible stainless work and welding in corners.

What to look out for

• The gas lens, the cup and the torch must match. Gas lenses exist for WP9/20 and WP17/18/26 torches, among others.
• Some cups are meant for a gas lens and therefore have a different size than cups for an ordinary collet body. For some WP17/18/26 torches you need a gas lens adapter.
• The mesh can get dirty. Check it now and then and replace the gas lens if the mesh is damaged or clogged.

Where to find them

Take a look at our diffusers and gas lenses. Not sure which one fits your torch? Use the selection guide or first read how to choose the right cup size.