11GL18 - Miller Weldcraft 11GL18 Gas Lens 1/8" for WP-12 Torches

Precision Gas Control for Heavy-Duty Applications

The Miller Weldcraft 11GL18 Gas Lens is a critical component designed for the rigorous demands of high-amperage TIG welding. Engineered specifically for the WP-12 series water-cooled torches, this gas lens accommodates 1/8-inch (3.2mm) tungsten electrodes. In industrial environments where weld quality and consistency are paramount, upgrading from a standard collet body to a gas lens is a strategic choice that enhances operational efficiency and metallurgical integrity.

The Science of Laminar Flow

Unlike standard collet bodies that can create turbulent gas exit patterns, the 11GL18 utilizes a multi-layered stainless steel mesh screen. This internal structure rectifies the flow of shielding gas (typically Argon or Helium) into a coherent, laminar stream. This laminar flow creates a stiff column of gas that resists atmospheric contamination more effectively than turbulent flow. For heavy-duty applications running up to 500 amps, maintaining a pure shielding environment is essential to prevent porosity and oxidation in the weld pool.

Operational Benefits

Using the 11GL18 gas lens offers distinct advantages for the operator and the fabrication process:

• Extended Stick-Out: The coherent gas column allows the welder to extend the tungsten electrode further past the nozzle cup—often up to an inch or more depending on conditions—without losing shielding coverage. This is invaluable for welding in deep grooves, corners, or restricted spaces.
• Improved Visibility: By allowing for greater stick-out, the welder gains a better line of sight to the puddle, reducing fatigue and improving bead placement accuracy.
• Gas Efficiency: While not its primary function, the efficiency of the laminar coverage can sometimes allow for slightly reduced gas flow rates compared to standard setups, providing cost savings over time.

Compatibility and Durability

Manufactured to Miller’s exacting standards under the Weldcraft brand, the 11GL18 is built from high-quality brass and copper alloys to withstand the intense heat cycles of 500-amp welding. It is designed to mate perfectly with WP-12 torch bodies and standard WP-12 collets, ensuring optimal electrical conductivity and thermal transfer. This component is an essential stock item for any fabrication shop utilizing heavy-duty water-cooled TIG systems.