1110-1313 - Tweco VTS-A364 Velocity Contact Tip for 3/64 Aluminum Wire

Advanced Conductivity for Aluminum Applications

The Tweco Velocity VTS-A364 Contact Tip (SKU: 1110-1313) represents a significant evolution in MIG welding front-end technology, specifically tailored for the metallurgical demands of aluminum welding. Unlike traditional threaded contact tips, the Velocity platform utilizes a revolutionary threadless "drop-in" design. This engineering choice eliminates the air gaps and thread tolerances that typically create electrical resistance and heat buildup in standard MIG guns. By maximizing the surface contact area between the tip and the gas diffuser, the VTS-A364 ensures a more efficient transfer of welding current, which is critical when working with highly conductive materials like aluminum.

The "A" designation in the VTS-A364 part number signifies that this tip is optimized for aluminum wire, specifically 3/64" (1.2mm) diameter. Aluminum wire has a much higher coefficient of thermal expansion than steel. Standard tips often cause aluminum wire to seize or "drag" as it heats up, leading to erratic feeding and burnback. The VTS-A364 features a precision-drilled bore with tolerances calculated to accommodate this expansion while maintaining sufficient electrical contact for a stable arc. This balance is crucial for preventing micro-arcing inside the tip, which can ruin the tip and disrupt the weld puddle.

Furthermore, the Velocity system integrates gas porting directly into the contact tip itself. This design innovation streamlines the gas flow path, reducing turbulence and ensuring that the shielding gas (typically 100% Argon for aluminum) envelopes the weld pool effectively. The solid copper construction aids in rapid heat dissipation, keeping the tip cooler even during high-duty cycle applications. For industrial environments where downtime equals lost revenue, the ability to rotate the tip to a fresh contact surface or replace it entirely without tools offers a measurable productivity advantage. The VTS-A364 is an essential component for any fabricator utilizing Tweco Fusion guns for aluminum fabrication.