10N46SC - #8 Alumina Ceramic Cup for 17/18/26 TIG Torches

Technical Overview of the 10N46 Alumina Nozzle Cup

The 10N46 Alumina Nozzle Cup is a critical consumable component designed for use with the industry-standard 17, 18, and 26 series TIG welding torches. Manufactured from high-purity alumina ceramic, this nozzle exhibits exceptional thermal stability and electrical insulation properties. The primary function of the nozzle is to direct the flow of inert shielding gas—typically Argon or Helium—over the tungsten electrode and the molten weld pool, protecting them from atmospheric contamination.

This specific model is a size #8 cup, which corresponds to an orifice diameter of 1/2 inch (approximately 12.7mm). The orifice size is a key determinant in the gas coverage area; a #8 cup provides a relatively broad umbrella of shielding gas, making it suitable for welding joints that require a longer tungsten stick-out or where better coverage is needed to prevent oxidation on reactive metals. The alumina material is chosen for its high melting point and resistance to thermal shock, ensuring the cup maintains its structural integrity even under the rapid heating and cooling cycles inherent in welding processes.

Compatibility is a major feature of the 10N46. It is designed to thread directly onto the standard collet bodies (such as the 10N32 series) found in air-cooled WP-17 and WP-26 torches, as well as water-cooled WP-18 torches. This interchangeability makes it a staple inventory item for fabrication shops that utilize multiple torch configurations. The threaded connection ensures a gas-tight seal, preventing atmospheric aspiration (Venturi effect) that could compromise weld quality.

In industrial MRO contexts, maintaining a stock of 10N46 cups is essential for minimizing downtime. Ceramic cups are consumable items that can become clogged with spatter or cracked if dropped. This generic replacement offers OEM-level performance specifications, ensuring that operators can maintain consistent arc stability and weld aesthetics without the premium price tag of branded consumables.