Spring 2010 Edition
Selecting the Right Tool for the Job
Do you need a light- or heavy-duty MIG gun?
Finding the right MIG gun to suit your welding application and your personal welding style is important. But as with any tool, making the decision between different ones isn’t always easy. When it comes to welding, not every MIG gun fits every application. And of course, everyone has individual preferences for the types of features he or she wants, too.
To help you decide which Tregaskiss MIG gun—a TOUGH GUN™ MIG Gun or TGX™ MIG Gun—is right for you, consider these five simple questions.
1) What type of application do you have?
For heavy-duty welding applications that require higher amperages, our TOUGH GUN MIG Guns are the best choice. These MIG guns are available in 350, 450, 550 and 650 amp models. They are also good for welding on thicker materials and on applications in which the MIG guns are in continuous use throughout multiple shifts.
On light- to medium-duty applications, the TGX MIG Guns are the better choice. They work well for welding thinner materials and are available in 180, 260 and 400 amp models, as well as two types of 300 amp models. These guns are well suited, but not limited to use on hobby applications or repair and maintenance jobs, especially those requiring tacking and/or shorter length welds.
Both types of MIG guns can be used across multiple industries. The type you select will depend on your specific application requirements.
2) In what types of environment do you typically weld?
If you weld in a harsh environment and have extended arc-on times, we recommend using our TOUGH GUN MIG Guns. TOUGH GUN MIG Guns come standard with an aluminum armored gooseneck and heavy-duty components, including a heavy-duty gooseneck insulator, nozzle and rear strain relief that are all durable under these conditions.
For environments that are less abusive and/or when you have shorter duration arc on times, TGX MIG Guns are the best option. These MIG guns have a standard duty gooseneck insulator, nozzle and rear strain relief, along with a polymer armored gooseneck.
Both MIG guns use Tregaskiss’ Common Consumable platform; the same TOUGH LOCK™ consumables and QUICK LOAD™ Liners are compatible on each.
3) What cable length do you need?
If you require a power cable longer than 15 feet, you should select the TOUGH GUN MIG Guns for your application. These MIG guns are available in lengths of 10, 12, 15, 20 and 25 feet, in addition to custom lengths that Tregaskiss can manufacture to your specifications.
TGX MIG Guns are the better choice if you require a power cable 15 feet or less, and if your application meets the light- to medium-duty specifications discussed earlier. These guns are available in standard 10, 12 and 15 feet cable lengths.
4) Do you want or need a customized MIG gun?
If you have an application that requires customization, our TOUGH GUN MIG Guns are the best option for you. TOUGH GUN MIG Guns can be customized according to amperage, cable length and goosenecks length and style. You can also customize the MIG guns according to your desired trigger style, as well as your preferred liner type. Tregaskiss also offers various power pin selections for popular brands of power sources. You can configure a TOUGH GUN MIG Gun by visiting our online TOUGH GUN MIG Gun Configurator.
If you do not require a customized MIG gun, the TGX MIG Guns are an excellent choice. Contact Tregaskiss for more information.
5) Do you need a water-cooled MIG gun?
If you have an extremely high-heat application that requires a water-cooled MIG gun, you will need to select a TOUGH GUN MIG Gun. Water-cooled versions are available in our 400 amp Compact Series or the 600 amp standard handle size model. Both models are built-to-order according to your specifications and include silver brazed gooseneck water-line joints that are 100 percent leak tested. Water-cooled TOUGH GUN MIG Guns are available in custom gooseneck lengths and configurations with nozzles that thread directly to the gooseneck, keeping them running cooler.
TGX MIG Guns are not available in a water-cooled version.
Remember, using the right tool for the job is key to getting the performance you want and need. Our TOUGH GUN MIG Guns, which are backed by Tregaskiss’ 180-day warranty, can meet the demands of some of your toughest applications. For less demanding, light- to medium-duty applications, TGX MIG Guns are your best choice and feature a 90-day warranty.