998790 - Victor 18-Inch Cutting Torch Extension Tube

Industrial Grade 18-Inch Extension Tube for Oxy-Fuel Torches

The ESAB 998790 is a premium 18-inch extension tube designed to enhance the versatility and safety of oxy-fuel cutting operations. Manufactured under the renowned Victor brand, this accessory is engineered to meet the rigorous demands of heavy industry, including scrap processing, demolition, structural steel fabrication, and foundry work. By extending the length of the cutting torch assembly, this tube allows operators to access recessed or elevated workpieces that would otherwise be difficult or dangerous to reach with a standard torch configuration.

Constructed from high-quality metallic alloys, typically a combination of brass and stainless steel components, the extension tube offers superior resistance to heat, oxidation, and mechanical impact. The internal gas passages are precision-drilled to ensure laminar flow of oxygen and fuel gases, maintaining the integrity of the preheat flame and the cutting stream over the extended distance. This ensures that cut quality is not compromised, even when the torch tip is positioned 18 inches further from the handle. The connections are machined to tight tolerances to provide a secure, leak-proof seal when attached to compatible torch handles and heads, preventing hazardous gas leaks and ensuring consistent performance.

In technical applications, the use of an extension tube alters the ergonomics of the cutting process. For ground-level work, such as cutting scrap rail or plate, the 18-inch extension allows the operator to maintain a more upright posture, reducing strain on the back and shoulders. Conversely, for overhead or vertical work, the extension provides the necessary reach to keep the operator's body clear of falling slag and sparks. This component is an essential addition to the tool crib of any professional welder or fabricator utilizing Victor-style oxy-fuel equipment, providing a simple yet effective solution for complex cutting geometries.

Integration of the 998790 into an existing torch setup is straightforward, typically involving threading the extension between the torch handle and the cutting head or tip assembly. Users must verify compatibility with their specific torch model to ensure proper thread engagement and gas seal. As a genuine ESAB/Victor part, this extension tube represents a commitment to quality, safety, and reliability in thermal cutting processes.