What's So Special About The Henrob® Torch?

We're asked this question on a daily basis! For many years I used a conventional gas-welding torch, like a Victor or Harris. When I heard all the remarkable claims about the Henrob (at that time it was called a Dillon) torch, I was skeptical. After viewing a demonstration of the torch and its abilities, I was quickly convinced the torch would become a valuable asset in our shop.

The Henrob torch is unlike a conventional torch because it has a pistol-grip handle. This feature is the heart of the torch: it includes a patented mixing chamber. The mixing chamber mixes the gases so thoroughly that the flame burns extremely purely and efficiently. The best benefit of a pure flame is that you can use much lower line pressure, which saves oxygen and acetylene. If you weld much, you will definitely notice a decrease in operating costs. The flame produced by the Henrob torch is ideal for welding aluminum and thin steel.

The heat is much more concentrated and tends not to "blow holes" in the weld pool. Choosing the correct welding tip size will prevent popping as you weld. For instance, a lot of restoration work requires the use of 20 gage steel . The Henrob '0' tip is ideal for this type of project. Although the torch is relatively expensive, it is well worth the money in my opinion. Think of this tool as an investment in efficiency and effective welding - it will quickly repay your investment. Sometimes it really is 'cheaper' to buy the best!

Each Henrob set includes four welding tips and a cutting attachment. The cutting attachment does an excellent job of cutting steel. I recommend using a two-stage oxygen regulator with the Henrob torch so you can regulate a low (3-4 p.s.i.) And steady gas flow to the torch. A regulators are sold separately from the torch, so they represent about another $400 cost. You can obtain two-stage regulators from most welding supply stores.

Some folks express hesitation about the pistol grip, thinking it might be awkward to use. I thought that might be a problem, too. But it only took me about a week of use to feel very comfortable with the torch. People like me, who used a conventional torch daily for a long time, notice a considerable improvement in the ease and accuracy of welds with the Henrob torch. A novice may not fully appreciate the elegance of this tool, but he will see fine results. Perhaps the clincher for this tool is a simple fact. Of all the times I have recommended the Henrob torch to a metal worker, not a single person ever came back and said it didn't work out, or he didn't like it!

© 1999 by Ron Fournier
Reprinted from Metal Crafter's News March/April 1994