A welding nozzle or shroud keeps the gas at the weld puddle

A welding nozzle plays a very specific roll in the welding process.

The main function of the welding nozzle is to control and direct the flow of the welding gases.

It is important to keep the nozzle clear from welding spatter.

Why?

Because any restriction to the gas flow will hinder the welding torches performance. A build up of spatter on the inside of the welding nozzle will create turbulence in the gas flow.

This turbulence will make the gas flow coming out of the nozzle uncontrolable. Resulting in insufficent shielding gas around the welding arc.

Which means a less that perfect weld.

Nozzles and shrouds are a welding consumable that become useless over time. Often the ones that have the white ceramic insulation material inside them such as the Beranrd mig guns (WIA welding machines) will end up leaking air, and falling off. They need this air tight seal around the contac tip holder so that as the welding gas is flowing it does not suck in outside air like a venturi effect on a carburettor.

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