high amperage torch

[metalmeltr]

can I get a TIG torch that is air cooled with at least a 280 amp rating?

[Pangea]

Not that I have ever seen. The biggest that I have seen is rated for about 150? IIRC

[MXtras]

http://www.arc-zone.com/index.php?main_page=index&cPath=13_20_57

Scott

[Dmaxer1]

I have a CK 210 air cooled flex-head torch rated at 200 amps. I have never seen an air cooled torch with a higher rating. Even so, when used at amperages close to 200 I can only use it continuously for a few minutes before it gets so hot I don't want to go on. To avoid that, I just start with my liquid cooled WP-18 torch which is rated at 250 amps. For 280 amps I am sure you will need a liquid cooled torch.

[Dmaxer1]

Whoops, I should have read MXtras link to arc-zone and the 300A air cooled torch before I replied. Just a word of caution though. Don't use thin TIG gloves when using high amperage. Maybe the torch can take it, but your hands may not.

[Guest]

Weldcraft CS300 is an air-cooled 300 amp torch.

[metalmeltr]

Thanks guys, one more question though this torch is going to be conected to a trail blazer 302 in the link to arczone it had models with a valve of some sort. What is this for and should i get it?

[Aeroweld]

The valve is the gas shut-off. In the case of a shop machine such as a Syncrowave there is a solinoid that controls the on-off flow of the gas. If you are using an add on High Freq box on the Trailblazer they also have provisions for a gas solinoid. If you are just using the torch for DC welding and hooking it straight to your stinger you will need a torch with a valve to turn the gas on and off.
On a personal note I use an HF251 box on my Trailblazer with an air cooled torch and still use the manual valve. It allows me to continue flowing the gas after the weld to help cool the torch.