Which MIG torch?

[F.J.]

I've been welding for almost 15 years and after all that time it had come to the point of replacing the torch on one of my welders for a longer one. I'm embarrassed to admit that I don't know which to get! A friend of mine works in a large welding factory and said he could possibly get me some consumables but would need to know if I had a Binzel torch or a Euro torch? This is where I fall short as I have only ever replaced the tips and shrouds with the bucket load I got free when I bought the welder so never had to ask the question.

How can I tell what type of torch I have and do each torch fit any welder?

I am looking at buying a longer torch for my Butters 180amp if that helps?

Thanks

 

[madkayaker]

I'd always thought they were one of the same? If you upload a photo we will be able to tell for definite

 

[F.J.]

I thought that but got confused as my friend is the stock controller where he works and is adamant that their different. I'll get a picture tomorrow and upload it

 

[shenion]

Eurotorch is a connector type. Binzel and Tweco (and others) are torch brands and styles. Places like Parweld sell 2 different Eurotorche models that use Binzel or Tweco consumables.

My Tweco gun could come with an Eurotorch, Tweco, Lincoln or Miller connector. Parweld sells Tweco or Binzel style torches with all the connector types also.

 

[gordon stephenson]

I think there is an adapter available to fit a tweco machine that lets you then use euro torches.

 

[chunkolini]

Be wary of getting one that is too long.
I have a spare that has a 5m reach, and found it is a real pain on most jobs as it gets caught and snagged on things, the wire also binds if it is on too tight a curve. But occasionally I need the extra reach and then it is a godsend. It spends 99% of the time hanging on the wall.