171435-006 - Tweco .052 Flux Cored Drive Roll Kit - 2 Roll System

Technical Overview of the Tweco 171435-006 Drive Roll Kit

The Tweco 171435-006 is a specialized drive roll kit engineered for the precise feeding of .052-inch (1.4mm) welding wires. This kit is specifically configured for a 2-roll drive system, commonly found in various Tweco and Thermal Arc wire feeders and compact MIG machines. The designation "FL/DS" indicates that these rolls feature a knurled groove profile, which is the industry standard requirement for feeding tubular wires such as Flux-Cored Arc Welding (FCAW) and Dual-Shield wires. Unlike solid wires which use V-groove rolls, tubular wires are susceptible to crushing under high tension; the knurled design provides positive traction with lower tension settings, preserving the structural integrity of the wire.

Manufactured from high-grade hardened steel, these drive rolls are designed to withstand the abrasive nature of welding environments and the constant friction of wire feeding. The kit typically includes both the upper and lower rolls necessary to completely outfit a single drive stand. Proper selection of drive rolls is critical for maintaining arc stability; using incorrect rolls (such as V-groove for flux-cored wire) can lead to slippage, erratic feeding, and ultimately, weld defects. This kit ensures that the wire feeder operates at peak efficiency, delivering the wire at a constant speed to the contact tip.

Installation of the 171435-006 kit is straightforward, adhering to standard Tweco mounting interfaces. Operators should verify that their specific wire feeder model utilizes the 2-roll system compatible with this part number. Regular inspection of drive rolls for wear and debris accumulation is recommended to maintain optimal performance. This component is an essential spare part for industrial fabrication shops utilizing .052" cored wires for structural steel, heavy equipment repair, and shipbuilding applications.