10N24 - 10N24 TIG Collet 3/32" (2.4mm) for 17/18/26 Torches

Technical Overview of the Weldcraft 10N24 Collet

The Weldcraft 10N24 Collet is a critical component designed for precision TIG welding applications, specifically engineered to accommodate 3/32-inch (2.4mm) tungsten electrodes. Manufactured to strict OEM tolerances, this collet ensures proper alignment and secure retention of the electrode within the torch head, which is vital for maintaining a consistent arc gap and achieving high-quality weld deposits. It is universally compatible with industry-standard 17, 18, and 26 series TIG torches, including air-cooled and water-cooled models such as the WP-17, WP-18, and WP-26, as well as their Flex and Valve variations.

Constructed from a high-grade copper alloy, the 10N24 collet offers superior thermal and electrical conductivity. This material selection is essential for managing the resistive heat generated at the contact point between the collet and the tungsten electrode. Efficient heat dissipation prevents the collet from twisting, warping, or melting under high-amperage conditions, thereby extending the service life of both the consumable and the torch head. The split-design of the collet allows it to compress tightly around the tungsten when the back cap is tightened, creating a low-resistance electrical connection that facilitates smooth current transfer from the power source to the arc.

In industrial environments, the reliability of torch consumables directly impacts productivity. Using genuine Weldcraft parts like the 10N24 minimizes downtime associated with arc instability, wandering arcs, or electrode slippage caused by poor-quality machining found in generic substitutes. This product is typically supplied in packs of five, providing welders with necessary spares for routine maintenance schedules. It functions seamlessly with standard collet bodies (10N32) and is a fundamental part of the front-end assembly for general fabrication, pipe welding, and aerospace applications.

Proper installation involves inserting the collet into the torch body, followed by the collet body, and then the tungsten electrode. Users must ensure that the collet size matches the tungsten diameter exactly; mismatched sizes can lead to arcing inside the torch or inability to tighten the electrode. The 10N24 is specifically sized for 2.4mm electrodes, covering a wide range of amperage applications suitable for welding steel, stainless steel, and aluminum.