33850 - ESAB HW-26FV Heliarc Air-Cooled TIG Torch 12.5ft Flex Valve

Heavy-Duty Versatility with the ESAB HW-26FV TIG Torch

The ESAB HW-26FV is a premium air-cooled TIG torch designed to meet the rigorous demands of industrial fabrication and field maintenance. As part of the legendary Heliarc family (often referenced with the HW prefix), this torch is engineered for welders who require both power and adaptability in a single package. The "FV" designation stands for "Flex Valve," highlighting its two most critical features: a flexible neck and an integrated gas control valve. This combination makes it an indispensable tool for pipe welders, maintenance crews, and fabricators working with power sources that may not have built-in gas solenoids.

Rated at 200 amps DC and 150 amps AC at a 60% duty cycle, the HW-26FV is the heavy-duty standard for air-cooled torches. It bridges the gap between lighter 17-series torches and water-cooled systems, providing substantial amperage capacity without the need for a water cooler or circulator. The 12.5-foot cable assembly offers a practical balance of reach and manageability, suitable for bench work or working around large assemblies. The torch body is constructed from high-grade silicone rubber, which offers superior resistance to heat and impact compared to standard rigid plastics, ensuring longevity even in harsh shop environments.

The flexible head is a game-changer for complex geometries. Operators can physically bend the neck of the torch to adjust the tungsten angle, allowing for proper gas coverage and visibility in restricted spaces such as roll cages, pipe clusters, or inside corners. Meanwhile, the gas valve located on the torch body provides manual on/off control of shielding gas. This is particularly essential for "scratch start" or "lift arc" TIG welding setups using standard DC stick welding machines, giving the operator full control over pre-flow and post-flow gas coverage directly at their fingertips.

Key Features

• High Amperage Capacity: Handles up to 200A DC, making it suitable for welding thicker aluminum and steel sections.


• Flex-Head Technology: Adjustable neck angle reduces wrist strain and improves weld quality in tight spots.


• Manual Gas Valve: Enables TIG welding on power sources without internal gas management systems.


• Durable Construction: High-temperature insulation resists cracking and high-frequency leakage.