639133 - Flat Soapstone Marker with Metal Holder

Precision Layout Tool for Industrial Fabrication

The ESAB 639133 Flat Soapstone Holder is an essential accessory for professional metalworkers, pipefitters, and fabricators who demand accuracy and durability in their layout tools. In the demanding environment of industrial maintenance and repair operations (MRO), the integrity of marking instruments is often overlooked until they fail. Standard soapstone sticks are brittle and prone to snapping when carried loose in pockets or tool belts. This robust holder addresses that issue by encasing the marking medium in a rigid metal channel, significantly reducing waste and ensuring that a sharp marking edge is always available when needed.

Constructed from high-quality, corrosion-resistant metal, this holder is designed to withstand the rigors of heavy shop use. The flat profile serves a dual purpose: it accommodates the widely preferred flat soapstone shape—which offers a superior edge for fine lines compared to round alternatives—and it prevents the tool from rolling off inclined worktables or vibrating machinery. The integrated pocket clip is a critical feature for efficiency, allowing technicians to secure the marker to a shirt pocket or sleeve, ensuring it is always within arm's reach during complex fit-up tasks.

The mechanism of the ESAB 639133 is engineered for simplicity and reliability. A positive-lock thumb slide allows the user to advance or retract the soapstone with a single hand, a necessary convenience when the other hand is occupied with a torch or measuring tape. The locking tab bites firmly into the stone, preventing it from pushing back into the housing under the pressure of marking on rough steel or rusted surfaces. Whether used for outlining cut paths, marking drill centers, or identifying parts, this holder provides the stability and protection required for professional-grade results.

Included with the holder is a high-grade flat soapstone insert, known for its ability to leave distinct, temporary marks that resist the high heat of welding and cutting processes without contaminating the weld pool. This tool represents a small investment that yields significant returns in terms of material savings and workflow efficiency.