997498 - ESAB ST-16 600A Water-Cooled MIG Gun, 10ft Cable

Heavy-Duty Industrial Performance

The ESAB ST-16 Water Cooled MIG Torch Gun (SKU: 997498) is a premier solution for high-amperage welding environments where duty cycle and durability are paramount. Engineered to withstand the rigors of heavy fabrication, this torch is rated at a massive 600 amps, allowing it to handle the most demanding welding schedules without overheating. Unlike air-cooled alternatives that require frequent cooling breaks or operate at lower duty cycles, the ST-16's water-cooled architecture efficiently dissipates heat, ensuring consistent electrical conductivity and consumable life even during prolonged arc-on time.

Versatile Wire Compatibility

Designed for versatility in industrial settings, the ST-16 is not limited to standard solid wires. It boasts an impressive capacity to handle flux-cored wires up to 7/64 inch in diameter. This makes it an exceptional choice for structural steel erection, heavy equipment manufacturing, and shipbuilding, where high-deposition rates are required. The robust internal liner and contact tip system are optimized to feed these heavier wires smoothly, reducing the risk of bird-nesting or feed interruptions that can plague lesser guns. Whether you are running gas-shielded flux core or self-shielded varieties, the ST-16 delivers the current transfer necessary for deep penetration and sound welds.

Optimized for Any Shielding Gas

Flexibility in process is a key advantage of the ESAB ST-16. It is rated for operation with any shielding gas, from 100% Carbon Dioxide (CO2) for deep penetration on mild steel to Argon-rich mixtures for spray transfer on stainless steel or aluminum. The gas nozzle design ensures laminar flow coverage over the weld pool, minimizing porosity and oxidation. This adaptability allows fabrication shops to use a single gun model for various materials and procedures, simplifying inventory and maintenance training.

Ergonomics and Reach

This specific configuration comes with a 10-foot cable assembly. While shorter than some 15 or 25-foot models, the 10-foot length is often preferred in bench-top applications or mechanized setups where excess cable slack can create tripping hazards or feeding resistance. The shorter cable path promotes smoother wire feeding, particularly for softer wires like aluminum or thinner flux-cored options. The handle is ergonomically shaped to fit comfortably in the welder's hand, providing good balance and control despite the heavy-duty nature of the equipment. The trigger mechanism is designed for reliability, ensuring positive contact initiation every time.