What's the deal with clear tig cups?

[ncsugrad2006]

Keep seeing these around the internets:



Are they worth it? Looks like it'd be easier to see what you're doing, but not sure how long they last before they get gunked up or if they break easy, crack, melt, etc.? Anyone use/used them and like/hate them?

Thought about giving them a try--I was watching some videos on youtube about making custom headers and the guy was raving about them saying it made it easier to see.

Thoughts?

[zoama]

The consensus seems to be that it's better to use a gas lens with a ceramic cup and extend the tungsten for better reach and visibility when need be.

[ncsugrad2006]

The consensus seems to be that it's better to use a gas lens with a ceramic cup and extend the tungsten for better reach and visibility when need be.

Gotcha--makes sense to get all the visibility you can get when needed

[Mike J]

I used the clear cups with a gas lens - best of both worlds!!

[Brian Ski]

I used the clear cups with a gas lens - best of both worlds!!

Don't hold us in suspense... Do they get dirty fast??? Do you have to clean them often??? Have you had trouble with any breaking??? Do you use them a lot??? (for a lot of welding???)

[hokiefd]

Interesting... I hadn't seen those before (new to TIG). Here are some related links:

http://www.everlastgenerators.com/fo...-torch-nozzles

http://www.everlastgenerators.com/fo...clear-gas-cups