{"product_id":"tig-alumina-ceramic-cup-nozzle-5-8mm-to-suit-17-18-26-10n49-5pk","title":"TIG ALUMINA CERAMIC CUP \/ NOZZLE #5 8MM – TO SUIT 17\/18\/26 10N49 5pk","description":"\u003cp\u003eTIG alumina ceramic cups are used to direct and focus shielding gas (typically argon) over the weld pool and the tungsten electrode to prevent atmospheric contamination. Without this gas shield, metals like aluminum and stainless steel would oxidize immediately, leading to weak and porous welds.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003ePrimary Functions\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eAtmospheric Shielding:\u003c\/strong\u003e The cup creates a localized, inert environment that protects the molten metal from oxygen, nitrogen, and moisture.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eHeat Resistance:\u003c\/strong\u003e Made from high-purity alumina oxide, these cups can withstand extreme temperatures exceeding 2,000°C without deforming or cracking.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eElectrical Insulation:\u003c\/strong\u003e Alumina is non-conductive, which prevents the torch's current from \"arcing out\" to the nozzle or the workpiece if they come into close proximity.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eArc Stability:\u003c\/strong\u003e By directing the gas in a controlled column, the cup helps stabilize the welding arc, which is critical for precision work.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSpecific Benefits of the #5 (8mm) Cup\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eThe #5 cup (8mm orifice) is considered a versatile, mid-sized nozzle. Experts and professional welders often choose this size for several reasons: \u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eAluminum Welding:\u003c\/strong\u003e The #5 cup is a favorite for aluminum as it effectively limits the \"etching zone\" (the white cleaned area around the weld), focuses energy into the puddle for better penetration, and uses less argon gas (approx. 12 CFH) compared to larger cups.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTight Spaces:\u003c\/strong\u003e Its slim profile allows welders to access restricted joints and corners where larger nozzles might obstruct their view or physically not fit.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eGas Efficiency:\u003c\/strong\u003e Smaller cups like the #5 achieve effective shielding at lower flow rates, making them more cost-effective for routine fabrication and repair tasks.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eGeneral Purpose:\u003c\/strong\u003e Size #5 is ideal for low-to-medium current welding on thinner materials. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eIndustry Applications\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eAerospace \u0026amp; Medical:\u003c\/strong\u003e Used for clean, contamination-free welds on sensitive alloys like titanium and stainless steel.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eAutomotive: \u003c\/strong\u003eIdeal for thin-gauge fabrication, such as exhaust systems, fuel tanks, and custom chassis work.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eShipbuilding \u0026amp; Repair:\u003c\/strong\u003e Provides durable, heat-resistant performance for long-duration welding cycles.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"SRB Steel \u0026 Hardware Supplies","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":45934974042306,"sku":null,"price":14.0,"currency_code":"AUD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0601\/6335\/8914\/files\/7FD3CB70-BE88-4B52-BEDA-9EFAD7FE90AF.jpg?v=1762826169","url":"https:\/\/www.srbindustrialsupplies.com\/products\/tig-alumina-ceramic-cup-nozzle-5-8mm-to-suit-17-18-26-10n49-5pk","provider":"SRB INDUSTRIAL SUPPLIES","version":"1.0","type":"link"}