KP52041-1 - Lincoln Electric ST04 Curved Seam Tracking Tip

Precision Seam Tracking for Automated Welding

The Lincoln Electric KP52041-1 ST04 Tip is a critical component for maintaining the accuracy and reliability of automated welding systems. Designed as a tactile sensor tip, the ST04 model features a specific "Curved Side Extension" geometry. This design is engineered to physically trace the weld joint, providing real-time feedback to the welding system's control unit to adjust the torch position. In high-volume industrial environments, the precision of this tracking directly correlates to weld quality, reducing the likelihood of defects caused by part misalignment or thermal distortion.

Durability is paramount in tactile sensing applications where the component is in constant physical contact with the workpiece. Lincoln Electric has manufactured the KP52041-1 using a robust plated steel body that provides the necessary structural rigidity to resist bending under normal operating pressures. Crucially, the probe end—the point of contact—is fabricated from a special wear-resistant alloy. This material selection significantly extends the service life of the tip, maintaining its dimensional accuracy over thousands of cycles even when tracking against abrasive metal surfaces.

Maintenance efficiency is another key feature of the Lincoln Electric sensor tip collection. The ST04 is designed for rapid replacement, allowing operators to change out worn tips in seconds. This modular approach means that only the low-cost tip needs to be replaced when worn or when a different joint configuration requires a different tip style, rather than replacing the entire sensor assembly. This cost-effective design helps facilities minimize downtime and maintain high overall equipment effectiveness (OEE) in their automated welding cells.

This specific ST04 model is one of over 15 standard styles available from Lincoln Electric, ensuring that there is a precise tool for almost any joint, weldment, or application requirement. Whether you are welding heavy structural steel or precision automotive components, the KP52041-1 provides the reliable tactile feedback necessary for superior automated welding performance.