54N17 - Weldcraft 54N17 #5 Alumina Gas Lens Cup (10-Pack)

Technical Overview of the Weldcraft 54N17 Alumina Gas Lens Nozzle

The Weldcraft 54N17 is a specialized Alumina Gas Lens Nozzle designed for precision TIG welding applications requiring superior shielding gas coverage. This nozzle is engineered to interface seamlessly with medium gas lens collet bodies found in 17, 18, and 26 series TIG torches (often referred to as the 3 Series). The nozzle features a #5 orifice, corresponding to a 5/16-inch (approximately 8mm) bore diameter, which provides a focused column of shielding gas suitable for fine to medium-gauge welding tasks.

Manufactured from high-grade alumina ceramic (aluminum oxide), this component exhibits exceptional thermal properties, including high thermal conductivity and resistance to thermal shock. This material composition ensures the nozzle maintains structural integrity even under the rapid heating and cooling cycles characteristic of industrial welding environments. The alumina material also offers high dielectric strength, preventing electrical arcing to the nozzle itself, and provides a smooth surface finish that resists the adhesion of weld spatter, thereby extending the service life of the consumable.

The primary function of the 54N17 nozzle is to direct the laminar flow of shielding gas generated by the gas lens collet body. Unlike standard collet bodies that can create turbulent gas flow, the gas lens system utilizes a mesh screen to organize the gas into a coherent stream. The 54N17 cup is shaped to maintain this laminar flow as the gas exits the torch, ensuring optimal protection of the weld pool from atmospheric contamination. This technical advantage allows for greater tungsten electrode extension (stick-out), enabling operators to access confined joints or deep corners without compromising shield integrity.

This product is supplied in a package of 10, ensuring facility inventory levels are maintained for high-volume production environments. It is a direct replacement for standard industry part number 54N17 and is compatible with major TIG torch brands utilizing the 17/18/26 form factor.