11601104 - Tweco 16S-45 Heavy Duty Contact Tip .045" (Pack of 25)

Heavy-Duty Welding with Tweco 1160-1104 Tips

Maximize the efficiency and longevity of your MIG welding setup with the Tweco 16S-45 Contact Tip, also known by part number 1160-1104. Designed for heavy-duty applications, this contact tip is rated for welding currents ranging from 350 to 600 Amps, making it an ideal choice for structural steel, heavy equipment repair, and industrial manufacturing. The 16 Series is one of Tweco's most popular consumable lines, known for its robustness and reliability under high-heat conditions. This specific tip is sized for 0.045" wire, a common diameter for general-purpose and heavy-plate fabrication.

The construction of the 16S-45 tip sets it apart from generic alternatives. It is extruded or gun-drilled from 122 DHP copper alloy, a material selected for its superior electrical conductivity and thermal characteristics. The 1.5-inch length and 0.375-inch outer diameter provide a substantial mass of copper, which serves to pull heat away from the contact point. By acting as a heat sink, the tip remains cooler during long welds, reducing the likelihood of burn-back and keyholing. The threaded style (M8 x 1.25) ensures that the tip locks firmly into the gas diffuser, maintaining a solid electrical path that is essential for a stable arc and high-quality weld deposit.

Operators will appreciate the attention to detail in the manufacturing process. The interior bore is machined to a smooth finish with a tolerance of +/- 0.003 inches, ensuring that the wire feeds consistently without snagging. This reduces downtime associated with bird-nesting or erratic arc starts. The tips are also designed for easy identification, with the size and part number permanently marked on the side. When the tip eventually shows signs of wear, the threaded design allows for quick replacement, getting you back to welding in seconds. These tips are typically supplied in packs of 25, ensuring you have an ample supply on hand for continuous production.