Abstract: A gas shielded arc welding torch is described which uses a consumable electrode wire. A cylindrical support member carries a guide tube for guiding the electrode wire through the torch. An electrical contact member is pivotably mounted at the end of the torch and includes a bore through which the wire passes. A spring biases the contact member into constant engagement with the electrode wire. A gas nozzle is mounted on the cylindrical support member and is movable with the contact member to provide a uniform, constant-dimensioned shielding gas passage around the contact member regardless of the movement thereof.

Abstract: An improved welding torch which includes a contact member constituted by a power feeding member having a through-opening for passing a consumable electrode wire and a support member for supporting the power feeding member, an electrode wire guide member covered, at least at its forward end portion, by the contact member, with at least the forward end portion of the guide member and the contact member being arranged to be movable with respect to each other in direction intersecting generally at right angles with an axis of the electrode wire, and a pressure member for relatively urging the contact member and the guide member for holding the electrode wire.