406488 - Weldcraft 3-Series Collet Body 5/32" (4.0mm) - 5 Pack

Technical Overview of the Weldcraft 406488 Collet Body

The Weldcraft 406488 Collet Body is a critical component in the front-end assembly of standard TIG welding torches, specifically designed to accommodate 5/32-inch (4.0mm) tungsten electrodes. This component is engineered to fit the "3 Series" consumable group, making it universally compatible with industry-standard WP-17 (air-cooled), WP-18 (water-cooled), and WP-26 (air-cooled) torch bodies, as well as their equivalents from other manufacturers such as CK Worldwide, Lincoln Electric, and Profax. The collet body screws directly into the torch head and acts as the housing for the split collet, which grips the electrode.

Manufactured from a high-conductivity copper alloy, the 406488 collet body serves two primary technical functions: current transfer and heat dissipation. As the electrical contact point between the torch head and the collet, it must maintain low electrical resistance to prevent voltage drop and localized overheating, particularly when running at the high amperages typically associated with 5/32" tungsten (often exceeding 250 amps). The mass of the copper body also aids in pulling heat away from the tungsten electrode and the collet, transferring it to the torch body where it can be dissipated by air or coolant.

This product is supplied as a package of five, ensuring that MRO departments and fabrication shops can maintain adequate stock levels for high-duty-cycle operations. It is designed to mate with standard ceramic nozzles (alumina cups) which screw onto the external threads of the collet body. For precision applications, users should verify that they are using the matching 5/32" split collet to ensure the electrode is centered and securely locked in place. The 406488 is the standard body version, distinct from gas lens bodies which utilize mesh screens for laminar flow; this standard body is preferred for general-purpose welding where cost-efficiency and durability are prioritized over gas coverage optimization.