Which part of the GTAW torch controls the gas flow?

The component that controls the gas flow in a Gas Tungsten Arc Welding (GTAW) torch is the gas valve. This valve regulates the flow of shielding gas, which is essential for protecting the weld pool from contamination by atmospheric gases. When using GTAW, maintaining an appropriate gas flow is critical for achieving a high-quality weld, as inadequate gas coverage can lead to defects such as oxidation or porosity in the weld.

In contrast, the gas diffuser functions to distribute the gas evenly around the electrode, but it does not control the actual flow rate. The electrode holder is designed to securely hold the tungsten electrode in place and provide electrical contact, while the current adjuster is used to modify the welding current, but does not influence gas flow. Therefore, understanding the function of the gas valve is crucial for effective setup and execution of GTAW operations.