79Z97 - ESAB HW-8 TIG Torch Button Cap 79Z97

Genuine ESAB 79Z97 Button for HW-8 TIG Torches

The ESAB 79Z97 Button is a specialized consumable component designed specifically for the classic HW-8 series TIG welding torches, often referred to under the legacy Heliarc brand. This component, commonly known in the industry as a "button" or "short back cap," plays a critical role in the assembly and functionality of the torch head. Unlike standard long back caps that accommodate full-length tungsten electrodes, this button cap is engineered for compactness, allowing the welder to maneuver the torch into extremely tight spaces where clearance is minimal.

Manufactured to ESAB's stringent OEM specifications, the 79Z97 ensures a perfect thread fit into the HW-8 torch body. This precise fit is essential not only for mechanical stability but also for maintaining the integrity of the shielding gas envelope. A loose or ill-fitting cap can lead to gas leakage, aspiration of atmospheric contaminants, and subsequent weld defects such as porosity or oxidation. The button is constructed from high-grade, heat-resistant phenolic or composite materials capable of withstanding the intense thermal cycling inherent in TIG welding operations without cracking or deforming.

Functionally, the button applies the necessary axial pressure to the collet within the torch body, securing the tungsten electrode in place and ensuring efficient electrical conductivity. Because of its short profile, users must cut their tungsten electrodes to a shorter length to fit within the cap's limited internal depth. This trade-off is necessary for the enhanced accessibility the button provides. Whether for maintenance, repair, or overhaul (MRO) of existing welding equipment, utilizing genuine ESAB parts like the 79Z97 guarantees that the equipment operates at its rated duty cycle and performance levels. This part is a direct replacement for older Linde and L-Tec branded parts bearing the same part number, ensuring backward compatibility with vintage equipment still in service in industrial settings.