best water cooled tig torch?

[ojh]

I have had nothing but headaches with this weldtec torch, it leaked the day I bought it in Feb, it ruptured the water line about 6" from the torch in march - I showed it to the welders supply shop and I had to repair it. 2 weeks ago it ruptured in the middle of the sheath, about 5' from the torch and I've been patching/repairing it since. the welding shop said they'd place a call, I'll have to bring them the torch and hoses. I did not get a pleasant feeling, it was like I was being a nuisance that was bringing them a problem to deal with.
I've had this machine for over 30 years, probably replaced the torches maybe 4 times, this being the 4th or perhaps the 5th time.
Anyway, I want to purchase another set of hoses so when I take this set I am not at their mercy.
What is a good industrial set of torches, 250a or so. I am sick and tired of leaks.
What do you guys use?

[billfunk29]

I have used a Linde HW-18 for 20 years. Zero problems.

http://tigtorches.net/tag/hw18

[scranm]

Call the factory. They will replace your torch. They have excellent customer service there. Real good people.

[crystallographic]

Originally Posted by ojh

I have had nothing but headaches with this weldtec torch, it leaked the day I bought it in Feb, it ruptured the water line about 6" from the torch in march - I showed it to the welders supply shop and I had to repair it. 2 weeks ago it ruptured in the middle of the sheath, about 5' from the torch and I've been patching/repairing it since. snip
What is a good industrial set of torches, 250a or so. I am sick and tired of leaks.
What do you guys use?

Weldcraft - (wp20.) Tried other newer "leakers" .... keep coming back to the old standard. sigh.

Just don't drop any heavy metal parts on it when it is left lying on the concrete floor .....

[Marc Bourget]

I also wonder if there's some environmental issues here, something antagonistic to the hose material?

[Pokie]

I use and have used a Union Carbide HW-20 for several years and have always been happy with it. I made my own coolant tank, using a pump I was given.

[SWT Racing]

Weldtec has very good customer service, so they will probably take care of you. Out of curiosity, are you using vinyl or rubber hoses? I am actually surprised where they are leaking, as it is usually the attachment point, or near the handle. The vinyl will take more abuse IMO, but are too stiff. When you add a ballistic nylon or a pigskin lead cover, it is almost unmanageable for fine work.

I've been very happy with my CK rotary head torch. With 20' leads rubber braided leads, it was about $130. I believe it is 230A.

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