Updated September 24, 2026. Start with the result you need: joining metal, making a controlled cut, or removing difficult material. A TIG torch, an oxy-fuel cutting torch, and a SLICE exothermic torch are not interchangeable attachments, even though all three may be called a “torch.”
TIG: choose it for welding, not as a cutting substitute
TIG welding uses an electric arc and a nonconsumable tungsten electrode with shielding gas. The torch must match the power source, intended current and duty cycle, cooling arrangement, and consumables. Buying a torch does not add unsupported welding capabilities to the machine.
For a new or replacement setup, use the TIG torch selection guide before comparing ArcWeld TIG torches. Identify the material and approved welding procedure separately from torch compatibility.
Oxy-fuel: check material and gas-equipment compatibility
Conventional oxy-fuel cutting uses a preheat flame and cutting oxygen to remove steel through an oxidation process. Carbon-steel cutting is a common application; do not assume the same arrangement will cut stainless steel or aluminum in the same way. Hypertherm's process comparison discusses this material limitation.
Match the cutting tip to the torch, fuel gas, and material thickness using the manufacturer's chart. Regulators, hoses, connections, and protective devices must also suit the gas service. Follow the equipment instructions and OSHA's oxygen-fuel requirements; a similar-looking tip or connection does not establish compatibility.
SLICE: a separate exothermic cutting system
ESAB's Arcair SLICE torch uses dedicated consumable cutting rods, oxygen, and a specified ignition or power arrangement. It is not a TIG torch and its cutting rods are not filler metal for joining a weld.
The SLICE instruction manual explains the exothermic process and distinguishes cutting with and without continuous electrical power. Verify the exact torch, cable, rod, collet, oxygen-supply, and ignition configuration rather than assuming every SLICE package includes the same equipment.
Specialized material removal may justify this process, but “cuts virtually anything” is not a safe job plan. Establish what the material contains, what is behind it, where molten material will go, and which procedure applies. This overview does not cover underwater work, confined-space entry, or rescue cutting; those require specialized equipment assessment, training, and procedures.
Compare the finished result, not just cutting capability
Our selection recommendation is to write down the required edge condition and what happens next. A part that will be welded, machined, reused, or discarded can have different acceptance requirements. For any hot-work method, resolve work support, movement of the cut section, fire controls, and protection of nearby people before starting.
For product identification, send the material, thickness, intended task, and existing equipment model through ArcWeld's parts and product-help form. Choose the process first, then the compatible equipment—not the other way around.