996816 - ESAB .052 Contact Tip for ST-16/ST-21 MIG Guns (5-Pack)

Precision ESAB Contact Tubes for Heavy-Duty Welding

The ESAB 996816 Contact Tube is a critical consumable designed to maintain the performance and reliability of your ESAB MIG welding equipment. Engineered specifically for use with 0.052-inch (1.4mm) welding wire, these contact tubes provide the essential electrical connection between the power source and the filler metal. Manufactured to strict OEM tolerances, they ensure a precise bore diameter that facilitates smooth wire feeding while maximizing electrical contact area.

These contact tubes are compatible with a range of classic and widely used ESAB MIG guns, including the ST-16, ST-21, MT-200, and MT-400 series. Using genuine ESAB consumables is vital for preventing common welding issues such as micro-arcing inside the tip, which can lead to premature failure and unstable arcs. The high-quality copper alloy construction offers excellent thermal conductivity, helping to dissipate heat generated during the welding process and extending the lifespan of the tip even under high-amperage applications.

In industrial environments where downtime equates to lost revenue, relying on consistent consumables is key. The 996816 contact tube features precision threading for a secure seat in the gas diffuser, ensuring optimal gas coverage and preventing loose connections that cause resistance heating. This pack contains five contact tubes, providing a necessary buffer for production shifts and ensuring that operators always have fresh replacements on hand to maintain weld quality.

Whether you are fabricating structural steel or performing heavy equipment repair, the integrity of your contact tip directly influences the stability of your arc and the quality of your bead. Trust in ESAB's engineering to deliver the conductivity and durability required for professional results.