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PRODUCT IMPROVEMENT – Trigger Control Plug Housing

PRODUCT IMPROVEMENT –
Trigger Control Plug Housing on BTB MIG Guns

November 23, 2015

Bernard has redesigned the trigger control plug housing on located on the rear strain relief as well as the trigger control plug connection on BTB MIG guns. This change provides an internal connection which is more durable and also allows the strain relief to fit more easily into various feeders from major manufacturers. The double-life MIG gun system also known as the “flip-flop” for T series straight handles is still compatible with this change.
 

Frequently Asked Questions

Did any part numbers change?

Answer: Yes, part numbers have changed. Please reference the charts below for new part numbers for the trigger control plug housing and trigger control plugs.

Trigger Control Plug Housing DescriptionOld Part NumberNew Part Number
Standard – B & O Series Handles416-51810053
Standard – T Series Straight Handle416-51810052
Dual Schedule416-131810054

Please see the chart below for trigger control part numbers based on the gun model. Example: Q2015AB8CMC

Power PinOld Part NumberNew Part Number
B (Bernard®)N/AN/A
E (Euro)N/AN/A
L (Lincoln®)419-6SCL2N
M (Miller®)419-4Trigger control plug housing includes trigger control plug
O (OXO™)419-7SCX1N
S (Tweco® #4 – Lincoln Lead)419-6SCL2N
R (Tweco® #4 – Miller Lead)419-4Trigger control plug housing includes trigger control plug
T (Tweco® #4 – Standard Lead)419-8SCT1N
U (Tweco® #4 – NAS Plug)419-7SCX1N
W (Tweco® #5 – Standard Lead)419-8SCT1N
X (Tweco® #5 – Miller Lead)419-4Trigger control plug housing includes trigger control plug

How can you tell the difference between the old version and the new 2015 design?

Answer: New 2015 design will have an internal connection. See Figure below: 

Image of old trigger control plug housing
Old version
Image of redesigned the trigger control plug housing
New 2015 design

    PRODUCT UPDATE – Expanded TOUGH GUN TA3 MIG Gun Offering

    PRODUCT UPDATE —
    Expanded TOUGH GUN TA3 MIG Gun Offering

    Image of a TOUGH GUN TA3 Robotic Air Cooled MIG Gun on a Motoman robot

    July 8, 2015  

    Tregaskiss is pleased to announce that the TOUGH GUN® TA3 robotic air-cooled MIG gun offering has been expanded to include configurations for FANUC® M710iC-12L and Kawasaki® BA006N robot models. 
     

    Available Resources

    Click here to learn more about the TOUGH GUN TA3 robotic air-cooled MIG gun. 


      PRODUCT IMPROVEMENT – Changes to Heavy Duty (HD) Nozzle Crimping

      PRODUCT IMPROVEMENT –
      Heavy Duty (HD) Nozzle Crimping

      January 16, 2015

      Image of two Tregaskiss nozzles showing change to crimp
      Old crimp (shown left) New crimp (shown right)

      Tregaskiss has improved the crimp on our heavy duty (HD) nozzle offering. The profile on the crimping dies that form the ring crimp has been narrowed from a pad length of 0.450″ to a pad length of 0.390″ (see image below). This change significantly improves the quality of the crimp since it allows for enhanced integrity of the nozzle insulator.

      Affected Part Numbers

      • 401-6-50
      • 401-87-56
      • 401-92-62
      • 401-49-62
      • 401-91-62
      • 401-81-62
      • 401-87-62
      • 401-49-62
      • 401-48-62
      • 401-88-62
      • 401-51-62
      • 401-71-62
      • 401-72-62
      • 401-6-62
      • 401-50-62
      • 401-7-62
      • 401-5-62
      • 401-6-75
      • 401-7-75
      • 401-5-75
      • 401-7-87
      • 401-10-87
      • 401-41-62
      • 401-14-62
      • 401-52-62
      • 401-19-62
      • 401-41-75
      • 451-1-62
      • 451-61-62
      • 451-81-62
      • 451-87-62

      Click here to download the TOUGH LOCK® consumables spec sheet in PDF format for more detailed nozzle information. 

        DISCONTINUED PRODUCT – Roughneck MIG Guns

        DISCONTINUED PRODUCTS –
        Miller Roughneck C-Series MIG Guns

        Effective April 30, 2015 Miller Electric Mfg. Co. discontinued the Roughneck® C-Series MIG gun series and replaced them with Bernard® BTB semi-automatic air-cooled MIG guns. Miller Electric will continue to offer consumables and replacement parts for the Roughneck C-Series MIG guns.

        Please see the cross reference chart below to find the replacement Bernard BTB MIG gun part numbers for the Roughneck C-Series MIG guns:

        Miller Stock NumberRoughneck Gun Model NumberBernard BTB MIG Gun Replacement Part NumberGun Length
        194751C-3010

        Q3010TE5EMC

        10 ft. (3 m)
        194752C-3012Q3012TE5EMC

        12 ft (3.7 m)

        194753

        C-3015

        Q3015TE5EMC

        15 ft (4.6 m)
        194754C-4010

        Q4010TE5EMC

        10 ft. (3 m)
        194755

        C-4012

        Q4012TE5EMC

        12 ft. (3.7 m)

        194756

        C-4015 Q4015TE5EMC15 ft (4.6 m)

        194757

        C-5010

        S5010GH5IMC

        10 ft (3 m)

        194758

        C-5012

        S5012GH5IMC12 ft. (3.7 m)
        194759 C-5015

        S5015GH5IMC

        15 ft. (4.6 m)

        Where To Order

        Certain products are only available for purchase from Miller Electric while others are available from either Miller Electric or Bernard. Please see the reference chart below which indicates where you can place an order for the guns, parts and consumables:

        PRODUCT

        WHERE TO BUY

        FasTip™ Consumables

        Miller Electric Mfg. Co.

        Quik Tip™ Consumables

        Miller Electric Mfg. Co. or Bernard

        Roughneck® Replacement Parts

        Miller Electric Mfg. Co.

        Bernard BTB MIG Guns

        Miller Electric Mfg. Co. or Bernard

        Bernard BTB MIG Gun Replacement Parts

        Miller Electric Mfg. Co. or Bernard

        To place an order through Miller Customer Service:  please contact us via phone: 866-931-9730, fax: 800-637-2315 or email orders@millerwelds.com

        To place an order through Bernard Customer Service:  please contact us via phone: 1-855-MIGWELD (644-9353), fax: 888-946-67-26 or email cs@itwmig.com

        Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

        If you are unable to find the answer you are seeking in the following FAQs, please contact the Miller and Bernard Customer Service Teams.

        1.  Q: Can I use Miller FasTip™ Consumables on the replacement Bernard BTB MIG Guns?

        A:  Although we recommend the use of Bernard Quik Tip™ Consumables, users can install the FasTip diffuser on Bernard Best of the Best BTB MIG Guns and use FasTip Consumables (contact tips, nozzles).  Users will need to order a neck insulator part # 4523R  for use on Bernard BTB MIG Guns when using FasTip Consumables. Please use the FasTip consumable chart below as a reference:

        FasTip Consumables
         300 amp400 amp500 amp

        Contact Tip*

        M206188

        M206190

        Diffuser

        M206195

        Nozzle

        M198855

        M199618

        Insulator

        4523R

         * Based on wire size range 0.045″ – 1/16″

        2.  Q: Can I use Miller Roughneck Liners on Bernard BTB MIG Guns?

        A:  No, Users will need to order Bernard Universal Conventional Liners for Bernard BTB MIG Guns. Miller Roughneck Liners are not compatible on Bernard BTB MIG Guns.

        3.  Q: Can I use Bernard™ Quik Tip™ Consumables on existing Roughneck MIG Guns?

        A:  Yes, the Quik Tip Consumable Series (contact tip, diffuser, nozzle) can be installed on Miller Roughneck MIG Guns. Users will need to order neck insulator part # 10012 to use on their Roughneck MIG Gun when using Bernard Quik Tip Consumables. Please use the consumable chart below as a reference:

        Quik Tip Consumables
         300 amp400 amp500 amp

        Contact Tip*

        T1045

        T1116

        Diffuser

        D118Q

        D114Q

        Nozzle

        N1C58Q

        N1C34HQ

        Insulator

        10012

        *Based on wire size range 0.045″ – 1/16″

        4.  Q: Can I use Bernard Universal Conventional Liners on existing Roughneck MIG Guns?

        A: No, Users will still need to order Miller Roughneck Liners for existing Roughneck MIG Guns. Bernard Universal Conventional Liners are not compatible with existing Roughneck MIG Guns.

        5.  Q: Why does my Miller FasTip diffuser not thread on correctly to a Bernard BTB MIG Gun?

        A:  A change to the thread on the FasTip diffuser was made on February 13, 2015 to be compatible with Bernard BTB MIG Guns. The new style diffuser has a large Miller logo roll mark compared to the old style diffuser that has a small Miller logo rollmark. To differentiate between the old and new style diffusers please see the comparison images below:

        Image showing the difference between the old and new style FasTip diffusers

        6.  Q: How does a Miller Roughneck Gun compare to a Bernard BTB MIG Gun?

        A:  Please see full gun comparison images below of the Roughneck C-Series MIG Gun (bottom) and Bernard BTB MIG Gun (top):

        Miller RoughNeck guns

          PRODUCT UPDATE – Spray Containment

          PRODUCT UPDATE —
          Spray Containment

          Image of a Tregaskiss spray containment

          June 23, 2015

          A perfect addition to the TOUGH GUN TT3 Reamer

          This innovative spray containment unit from Tregaskiss helps prevent air contamination by catching anti-spatter overspray in its sealed basin, improving the air quality of the working environment and maintaining the cleanliness of the weld cell.

          Spray Containment Part Numbers

          TS-1000-01for use with Tregaskiss® Heavy Duty (HD) Nozzles (excluding 3/4″ bore)
          TS-1000-02for use with Tregaskiss Standard Duty (SD) Nozzles
          TS-1000-03for use with Tregaskiss Heavy Duty Nozzles with 3/4″ bore
          TS-1000-04for use with Tregaskiss Heavy Duty Bottleneck Nozzles
          TS-1000-05for use with Tregaskiss Standard Duty Bottleneck Nozzles

          Not sure what type of nozzle you have? Download the Tregaskiss nozzles spec sheet in PDF format.

          Click here to learn more about the spray containment unit.

            DISCONTINUED PRODUCT – TOUGH GARD Spatter Cleaner Robotic Nozzle Cleaning Station

            DISCONTINUED PRODUCT — TOUGH GARD Spatter Cleaner Robotic Nozzle Cleaning Station

            Image of a TOUGH GARD nozzle cleaning station that has been discontinued

            December 31, 2014

            The TOUGH GARD® spatter cleaner has been discontinued as of December 31, 2014. Replacement parts will continue to be available until December 31, 2015. Prices and availability of these replacement parts are subject to change without notice.

            Consider an upgrade to the TOUGH GUN® TT3 (analog) or TT3E (Ethernet) reamer robotic nozzle cleaning station from Tregaskiss. Click here to learn more.

            Click here to download the M075 TOUGH GARD spatter cleaner technical guide.


              PRODUCT IMPROVEMENT – Bernard Conventional Liners

              PRODUCT IMPROVEMENT –
              Bernard Conventional Liners

              Image of Bernard conventional liners

               
              Bernard has implemented a material change to all Bernard conventional liners. All liners were previously produced from high carbon music wire. All liners will now be produced from high carbon music wire with tin zinc plated coating.

              Liners are still available in lengths of up to 25 feet (7.6 m) for various wire sizes. Part numbers will remain the same as released on June 2, 2014.

              Please see the chart below for part numbers and wire sizes:

              Wire SizeLiner Color15′ (4.57 m)25′ (7.62 m)

              0.023″- 0.030″

              Yellow

              L1A-15

              L1A-25

              0.030″- 0.035″

              Green

              L2A-15

              L2A-25

              0.035″- 0.045″

              White

              L3A-15*

              L3A-25*

              0.045″- 1/16″

              Red

              L4A-15**

              L4A-25**

              5/64″

              Blue

              L6A-15

              L6A-25

              3/32″

              Grey

              L7A-15

              L7A-25

              7/64″ – 1/8″

              Black

              L8A-15

              L8A-25

              *Standard Liner for 0.035″-0.045″ Guns
              **Standard Liner for 1/16″ Guns


                DISCONTINUED PRODUCT – Manual Products

                DISCONTINUED PRODUCT –
                Manual Products: Cable Connectors, Lugs and Splicers

                As of August 4, 2014, the manual product line (cable connectors, lugs and splicers) from Bernard has been discontinued.

                Bernard has transitioned these products to a new supplier! Customers can contact Hopkin Manufacturing directly to place orders for these products.

                Hopkin Manufacturing: +1-800-524-1458 | hopkinsmfg.com 


                  NEW PRODUCT – TOUGH GUN TA3 Robotic Air-Cooled MIG Gun

                  NEW PRODUCT —
                  TOUGH GUN TA3 Robotic Air-Cooled MIG Gun

                  Image of a TOUGH GUN TA3 Robotic Air Cooled MIG Gun on a Motoman robot

                  October 31, 2014

                  Tregaskiss is pleased to bring you the TOUGH GUN® TA3 robotic air-cooled MIG gun. Designed for today’s through-arm style robots, the TOUGH GUN TA3 robotic air-cooled MIG gun combines the most valuable options of our TOUGH GUN ThruArm™ G1 and G2 series platforms – including our low-stress robotic (LSR) unicable – along with new features for increased strength and durability.

                  • Re-engineered neck clamp improves durability and consistency of clamping force
                  • Additional standard necks expand the tool center point options and variety of working envelopes
                  • Direct replacement for TOUGH GUN ThruArm G1 series robotic MIG guns
                  • Features a precision-engineered keyway system for accurate alignment and quick replacement
                  • Available as a complete package – from the power pin to the contact tip
                  • Compatible with TOUGH LOCK® consumables and the QUICK LOAD® liner AutoLength™ system
                  • Wire brake, air blast and TOUGH GUN I.C.E.® technology are available options for select models

                    NEW PRODUCT – Bernard Clean Air Fume Extraction Gun

                    NEW PRODUCT –
                    Bernard Clean Air Fume Extraction Gun

                    New Clean Air™ Fume Extraction Series

                    Reduce smoke at the source with an industrial-duty fume extraction gun that is comparable in size and weight to a regular welding gun.

                    Image of Clean-Air Fume Extraction MIG Gun

                    Learn more on the Clean Air™ fume extraction gun product page


                      NEW PRODUCT – TOUGH GUN CA3 Robotic Air-Cooled MIG Gun

                      NEW PRODUCT —
                      TOUGH GUN CA3 Robotic Air-Cooled MIG Gun

                      October 31, 2014

                      Image of Tregaskiss TOUGH GUN CA3 robotic MIG gun with 45 degree neck

                      Tregaskiss is pleased to bring you the TOUGH GUN® CA3 robotic air-cooled MIG gun. Designed for high-volume production environments, the TOUGH GUN CA3 robotic air-cooled MIG gun combines the most valuable product features of our TOUGH GUN G1 and G2 series platforms, along with performance improvements in our unicable technology that extends service life.

                      Fully configurable, TOUGH GUN CA3 MIG guns are engineered for precision, durability, accuracy, repeatability, minimal downtime and fast and easy maintenance.

                      • New replaceable conventional unicable design offers extended service life (up to 2x) and ease of serviceability
                        • New dual layer cable outer jacket, re-engineered cable guide and increased copper content contribute to extended service life
                      • Re-engineered neck clamp improves durability and consistency of clamping force
                      • Additional standard necks and mounting arms expand tool center point options and working envelopes
                      • Direct replacement for TOUGH GUN G1 Series MIG Guns
                      • Compatible with TOUGH LOCK® consumables and the QUICK LOAD® liner AutoLength™ system
                      • Wire brake, air blast and TOUGH GUN I.C.E.® technology are available options

                        PRODUCT IMPROVEMENT – Electronic Check Valve and Mounting Bracket Added to the TOUGH GUN TT3 Reamer

                        PRODUCT IMPROVEMENT —
                        Electronic Check Valve and Mounting Bracket Added to the TOUGH GUN TT3 Reamer

                        August 11, 2014

                        Image of TOUGH GUN TT3 Reamer with Electronic Check Valve and Mounting Bracket

                        An electronic check valve and mounting bracket have been added to the TOUGH GUN® TT3 reamer. This improvement provides added protection against leakage from the sprayer reservoir.  

                        Since this addition affects the wiring slightly, updated wiring diagram instructions are provided with every affected unit.

                        A TOUGH GUN TT3 reamer sprayer valve retrofit kit (part #TT3-500R) is available for units manufactured prior to August 11, 2014.

                        How Do I Know If I Need to Retrofit My Reamer?

                        If your TOUGH GUN TT3 reamer:

                        • has a spray head that pools or leaks anti-spatter once the system is primed;
                        • has an elevated multi-feed / bulkfeed source (drum / pail located on top of the mezzanine);
                        • is mounted on an angle (baseplate is not parallel with the floor);

                        you will require the TOUGH GUN TT3 reamer sprayer valve retrofit kit #TT3-500R to fix any issues that you may be experiencing. Installation of this kit should take approximately 15 minutes.

                        Click here for complete step by step installation instructions.


                          PRODUCT UPDATE – Neck Insulators for BTB MIG Guns

                          PRODUCT UPDATE –
                          Neck Insulator Selection for BTB MIG Guns

                          Image of neck insulator part number 10012 next to neck insulator part number 402-11 that shows the differences between the two.

                          Although no new neck insulators are being introduced due to implementation of the BTB semi-automatic air-cooled MIG gun platform on June 2, 2014, users should be aware that neck insulator replacement for these guns will be based on several variables including:

                          • Your gun’s amperage;
                          • Your gun’s neck / handle combination;
                          • The consumables series that you are using.  

                          Please use the following chart when selecting the appropriate replacement neck insulator:

                          Neck / HandleConsumablesInsulator Part Number
                          200A300A400A500A600A
                          Fixed neck for T series handlesTOUGH LOCK®402-11
                          Quik Tip™4423R
                          Centerfire™4323R4423R
                          Rotatable neck for O, B, T series handlesTOUGH LOCK10012
                          Quik Tip4423R
                          Centerfire4323R4423R
                          Fixed necks for O, B series handlesTOUGH LOCK10012
                          Quik Tip4423R
                          Centerfire4323R4423R

                            PRODUCT UPDATE – Common Straight Rear Strain Relief for BTB MIG Guns

                            NEW PRODUCT –
                            Common Straight Rear Strain Relief for the BTB MIG Gun Platform

                            Image of common straight rear strain releif

                            New BTB platform MIG guns, launching on June 2, 2014, will feature a common straight rear strain relief (shown right) on almost all configurations.  This straight rear strain relief was originally introduced on Tregaskiss TOUGH GUN semi-automatic MIG guns and allows expansion or maintenance of several key features:

                            Exceptions: Black Clamshell Rear Strain Relief with Bernard and Euro Power Pins

                            Best of the Best Platform Guns configured with Bernard or Euro power pins will incorporate the black clamshell rear strain relief originally introduced on Bernard Q-Gun and S-Gun MIG Guns with black clamshell

                            Only BTB platform guns configured with Bernard or Euro power pins will incorporate the black clamshell rear strain relief originally introduced on Bernard Q-Gun and S-Gun MIG Guns.  This rear strain relief is also now covered by the same Lifetime Warranty offered on the straight rear strain relief (above) for BTB platform guns.

                            Please note the following liner compatibility:


                              PRODUCT IMPROVEMENT – Dual Thread Necks for BTB MIG Guns

                              PRODUCT IMPROVEMENT –
                              Dual Thread Necks for BTB MIG Guns

                               
                              Beginning on June 2, 2014, Bernard’s new BTB MIG gun platform brings our Q-Gun™, S-Gun™ and T-Gun™ semi-automatic air-cooled MIG guns into a single gun line and single configurator.  As a part of this launch, all fixed and rotatable necks offered through the new BTB MIG gun configurator will now feature a dual thread that allows the installation of your choice of consumables – TOUGH LOCK®, Centerfire™ or Quik Tip™ – without the need for special adaptor parts.

                              Please note that not all Bernard necks will have this new dual thread. Necks that will NOT have the new dual thread include:

                              • All styles of flex necks
                              • Black polymer necks for the TGX® series
                              • All water-cooled necks

                              How can I tell the difference between single and dual thread necks?

                              There is a subtle difference to the appearance of the threads on the necks as shown below:

                              subtle difference to the appearance of Image of the threads on the necks

                              Please click here for more details on necks offered through the BTB MIG gun platform.

                              The Bernard necks spec sheet can be downloaded in PDF format by clicking here.


                                PRODUCT CHANGE – Bernard Power Pins

                                PRODUCT CHANGE –
                                Bernard Power Pins

                                Beginning on June 2, 2014, Bernard’s new BTB MIG gun platform brings our Q-Gun™, S-Gun™ and T-Gun™ MIG Guns into a single gun line and single configurator.  To combine the gun lines, it was necessary to standardize the back ends of all BTB MIG guns with the straight rear strain relief found on Bernard® T-Gun™ MIG guns (formerly Tregaskiss® TOUGH GUN® semi-automatic MIG guns). 

                                Image of semi-auto power pins. Miller Lincoln, Tweco #4 and Tweco #5

                                Similarly, the Tregaskiss power pins that mate with the T-Gun series have now been adopted with some slight modifications as the Bernard power pins for both Bernard semi-automatic and Tregaskiss robotic MIG guns. The slight modifications include a new overall hex shape (see image on right) and fixed gas barbs. 

                                Bernard MIG gun lines that are compatible with these pins include:

                                Due to the expanded compatibility of these pins, some distributors and end users will be able to reduce inventories of Bernard replacement parts. 

                                For additional information on power pin kits and power pins, please click here to access the spec sheets in PDF format.


                                  NEW PRODUCT – Bernard Conventional Liners

                                  NEW PRODUCT –
                                  Bernard Conventional Liners

                                  Compatible with BTB Semi-Automatic MIG Guns and Legacy Q-Gun, S-Gun, & T-Gun Series MIG Guns

                                  Image of old universal liners

                                  Launched on June 2, 2014, the new Bernard® conventional liners are compatible with all legacy Q-Gun™, S-Gun™ and T-Gun™ MIG guns and all BTB platform guns, which allows you to simplify and reduce your inventory. The image to the right shows how the previous liner locks were merged in the design of  the new Bernard conventional liner to maximize backwards compatibility.

                                  Due to this customer-friendly backwards compatibility, the part numbers below supersede previous Bernard conventional liner part numbers.

                                  Made of high carbon music wire for smooth wire feed and long life, Bernard conventional liners are available in lengths of up to 25 feet (7.6 m) and are color coded for your convenience to indicate a variety of wire sizes.  Please see the chart below for part numbers, wire sizes, and color coding information:
                                   

                                  New Bernard Conventional Liners

                                  Wire SizeLiner Color15′ (4.57 m)25′ (7.62 m)
                                  0.023″-0.030″Yellow L1A-15 L1A-25
                                  0.030″-0.035″GreenL2A-15L2A-25
                                  0.035″-0.045″White L3A-15* L3A-25*
                                  0.045″- 1/16″RedL3A-15**L4A-25**
                                  5/64″ BlueL6A-15L6A-25
                                  3/32″GreyL7A-15L7A-25
                                  7/64″-1/8″Black L8A-15 L8A-25

                                  *Standard Liner for 0.035″-0.045″ Guns
                                  **Standard Liner for 1/16″ Guns

                                  Bernard and Tregaskiss Conventional Liner to New Bernard Conventional Liner Cross Reference Chart for Bernard Semi-Automatic MIG Guns

                                  Wire SizeBernard Liner Part NumberTregaskiss Liner Part NumberNew Bernard Conventional Liner Part Number
                                  0.023″-0.030″43015415-23-15L1A-15
                                  0.030″-0.035″43015415-30-15L2A-15
                                  0.035″ – 0.045″44115415-35-15LS3-15
                                  0.035″- 0.045″43115 L3B-15
                                  0.045″ – 1/16″44215415-116-15L4A-15
                                  0.045″ – 1/16″43215 L4B-15
                                  5/64″44315415-564-15 L6A-15
                                  3/32″ 45415 415-332-15L7A-15
                                  7/64″45615615-18-15L8A-15
                                  1/8″46715615-18-15 L8A-15

                                  NOTE: Tregaskiss conventional liner numbers will continue to be offered due to their continued use in Tregaskiss robotic MIG guns.


                                    PRODUCT UPDATE – New Handle Names for the BTB MIG Gun Platform

                                    PRODUCT UPDATE –
                                    New Handle Names for the BTB MIG Gun Platform 


                                    Beginning on June 2, 2014, Bernard’s new Best of the Best Platform brings our Q-Gun™, S-Gun™ and T-Gun™ semi-automatic air-cooled MIG guns into a single gun line and single configurator. 
                                    Since we now have six gun handle styles within a single configurator, we have developed the following naming scheme for our handles per the chart below:

                                     

                                    B Series Small Curved Handle

                                    B series small curved handle option for BTB semi-automatic air-cooled MIG guns

                                    B Series Large Curved Handle

                                    B series curved handle option for BTB semi-automatic air-cooled MIG guns

                                    O Series Small Curved Handle

                                    O series small curved handle option for BTB semi-automatic air-cooled MIG guns

                                    O Series Large Curved Handle

                                    O series curved handle option for BTB semi-automatic air-cooled MIG guns

                                    T Series Small Straight Handle

                                    T series small straight handle option for BTB semi-automatic air-cooled MIG guns

                                    T Series Large Straight Handle

                                    T series straight handle option for BTB semi-automatic air-cooled MIG guns

                                    C Series Straight Handle

                                    C series straight handle option for BTB semi-automatic air-cooled MIG guns

                                    Please note that all handle and trigger combinations previously offered continue to be available within the BTB MIG gun platform. 

                                    To view a summary of trigger options and other features by handle, please click here.


                                    .

                                      PRODUCT IMPROVEMENT – Q-Nut for BTB MIG Guns

                                      PRODUCT IMPROVEMENT –
                                      Improved Q-Nut Launching with the BTB MIG Gun Platform 

                                      Along with the new Bernard® semi-automatic MIG guns BTB platform launching on June 2, 2014, Bernard is pleased to announce the launch of the improved Q-Nut used on all Bernard rotatable necks. It has been completely redesigned to offer a significant increase in durability. Please note that the new silicone ring, Q-Nut cover and silicone insulator are now installed from the back of the neck instead of the front.

                                      “How to install the new Q-Nut” instructions are available on our website in the How-To Guides and Videos area of our Technical Support section. Please click here to access this How-To article.
                                       

                                      Drawing of how to install a q-nut

                                        SYSTEM UPDATE – New Gun Part Numbers for BTB MIG Guns

                                        SYSTEM UPDATE –
                                        New Gun Part Numbers for BTB MIG Gun Platform

                                        All Bernard Semi-Automatic Air-Cooled MIG Guns under the new BTB Platform will have new part numbering as of June 2, 2014.

                                        Former Q-Gun™ and S-Gun™ MIG guns will require an additional character added to the end of the existing part numbers to allow for new liner selection options. Former T-Gun™ semi-automatic air-cooled MIG guns will be adopting Q-Gun style part numbering for consistency across all guns within the new single configurator. Example old and new part numbers are shown below:

                                        Gun LineOld Part NumberNew Part Number

                                        Q-Gun MIG Guns

                                        Q4015GE8CM

                                        Q4015GE8CMC

                                        S-Gun MIG Guns

                                        S3012TF5CM

                                        S3012TF5CMC

                                        T-Gun MIG Guns

                                        M3010-35

                                        Q3010MP3CMC

                                        For a limited time from June 2 until August 1, 2014, both old and new part numbers will be supported in our system to allow our distribution partners to update their computer systems.

                                        To assist our customers in converting old gun part numbers to new Best of the Best Platform part numbers, we have created an online conversion tool. To populate the data in the tool, Q-Gun, S-Gun and T-Gun MIG Gun part numbers configured between April 2011 and April 2014 were pulled and converted to the new part numbering system. Click here to access this conversion tool.

                                          PRODUCT UPDATE – New Internal Stop in Centerfire and Quik Tip Diffusers

                                          PRODUCT UPDATE –
                                          New Internal Stop in Centerfire and Quik Tip Diffusers

                                          Image of internal stop on Quik Tip Diffuser

                                          We have added internal stops to all Centerfire™ and Quik Tip™ diffusers to improve alignment between the liner and contact tip for enhanced wire feedability.

                                          This product improvement is being implemented as a running change. 
                                           

                                          What’s Changed?

                                          The new internal stop inside Centerfire and Quik Tip diffusers prevents the liner from going all the way through the diffuser, therefore changing how liners need to be installed. Liner installation will now require the removal of the diffuser.

                                          Please note that trim lengths will also be affected.

                                          See product insert INS-DIFF for more information.  

                                          Frequently Asked Questions

                                          How can I tell the difference between Centerfire and Quik Tip diffusers with the NEW internal stop vs. the original style Centerfire and Quik Tip diffusers?

                                          To help distinguish Centerfire diffusers (shown below, left) with the new internal stop, users can check the orientation of the roll mark. In original style diffusers, the roll mark is readable when the tip end is at the top. In diffusers with the new internal stop, the roll mark is readable when the neck end is at the top.

                                          Image of Centerfire Diffusers showing roll mark
                                          Centerfire Diffuser
                                          Image of Quik Tip diffuser showing roll mark
                                          Quik Tip Diffuser

                                          To distinguish Quik Tip diffusers (shown above, right) with the new internal stop, users can check the roll mark. In the original style diffusers, the roll mark has one Bernard starburst stamped before the part number. In diffusers with the new internal stop, the roll mark has a Bernard starburst stamped before AND after the part number.

                                          For both Centerfire and Quik Tip diffusers, a second simple method to check for an internal stop would be to insert a liner into the diffuser. If the liner will not pass all the way through the diffuser, then an internal stop is present.

                                          Please note that it is important to understand which diffuser you are using as this affects liner trim length during replacement. Please refer to the insert inside of your diffuser bag or click here for additional information about liner replacement and trim length details.

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                                            PRODUCT IMPROVEMENT – Tregaskiss Cutter Blades

                                            PRODUCT IMPROVEMENT —
                                            Tregaskiss Cutter Blades

                                            June 1, 2013

                                            Tregaskiss is pleased to announce improvements to the design of its cutter blades for use with the TOUGH GUN® TT3 reamer and TOUGH GARD® spatter cleaner robotic nozzle cleaning stations.

                                            Image of cutter blades

                                            These new cutter blades are engineered from harder, stronger material, making them more resistant to breaking, chipping or cracking. The twin flute design with stronger edges allows for improved cutting and cleaning performance.

                                            Click here to find out more about the features and benefits of these improvements. 
                                             

                                            Ordering Information

                                            For use with the TOUGH GUN TT3 reamer:

                                            Part NumberCutter BladeNozzle
                                            RCT-010.500″ (12.7 mm)Cutter 5/8″ (15.9 mm) Bore
                                            RCT-04 0.358″ (9.1 mm)Cutter 1/2″ (12.7 mm) Bore
                                            RCT-05 0.375″ (9.5 mm)Cutter 1/2″ (12.7 mm) Bore, TOUGH ACCESS™
                                            RC-060.281″ (7.1 mm)Cutter 3/8″ Bore
                                            RC-080.438″ (11.1 mm)Cutter 5/8″ (15.9 mm) Bore, Binzel®
                                            RCT-100.406″ (10.3 mm)Cutter 5/8″ (15.8 mm) Bore, TOUGH ACCESS
                                            RCT-110.562″ (14.3 mm)Cutter 11/16″ (17.5 mm) Bore, Tandem
                                            RC-120.530″ (13.5 mm)Cutter 3/4″ (19.0 mm) Bore
                                            RCT-130.520″ (13.2 mm)Cutter 3/4″ (19.0 mm) Bore
                                            RCT-160.359″ (9.12 mm)Cutter 15.5 mm, Panasonic®, 350 amp
                                            RCT-17 0.359″ (9.12 mm)Cutter 16.0 mm, Panasonic, 500 amp
                                            RCT-180.500″ (12.7 mm)Cutter 15.5 mm Nozzle M10 Tip WH500T Torch, Binzel

                                            For use with the TOUGH GARD spatter cleaner:
                                            NOTE: The TOUGH GARD spatter cleaner will be discontinued effective December 31, 2014

                                            Part NumberCutter I.D.Nozzle Bore
                                            C-5000.350″ (8.9 mm)Cutter 0.500″ (12.7 mm) Bore
                                            C-6250.500″ (12.7 mm)Cutter 0.625″ (15.9 mm) Bore
                                            C-PA0010.359″ (9.12 mm)Cutter 15.5 mm, Panasonic, 350 amp
                                            C-PS0020.359″ (9.12 mm)Cutter 16.0 mm, Panasonic, 500 amp
                                            C-Q0010.359″ (9.12 mm)Cutter 9/16″ (14.3 mm) Bore, AWQ
                                            C-750W0.520″ (13.2 mm)Cutter 0.750″ (19.0 mm) Bore, 600 amp Water-Cooled

                                            Binzel® is the registered trademark of Alexander Binzel Schweisstechnik GmbH & Co. KG, Germany. Panasonic® is the registered trademark of Panasonic Welding Systems Co., Ltd.


                                              PRODUCT IMPROVEMENT – New Swivel Design on the Bernard FILTAIR Fume Extraction Gun

                                              PRODUCT IMPROVEMENT –
                                              New Swivel Design on the Bernard FILTAIR Fume Extraction Gun

                                              The improved swivel design on the Bernard® FILTAIR™ fume extraction MIG gun now uses threads to retain the vacuum hose and eliminates the front band-it clamp from both amperage models. This redesign will improve performance and avoids replacing the hose clamp with a larger head.

                                              What Changed?

                                              The new design threads into the vacuum hose and cannot be removed unless the hose is cut to remove it from the threads. Removing the front band-it clamp also eliminates the possibility of the clamp getting snagged on other equipment, gloves, clothing, etc.

                                              Frequently Asked Questions

                                              Did any part numbers change?

                                              Answer: The new threaded swivels are backwards compatible with existing guns. As a result, swivel part numbers did not change.

                                              • 300 amp = 2810008
                                              • 400 amp = 2810009

                                              How can you tell the difference between the old version and the new 2013 design?

                                              Answer: New 2013 design will not have the metal front band-it clamp located on the hose near the rear of the handle. See Figure below: 

                                              Image of FILTAIR connection bracket - OLD
                                              OLD Version
                                              Image of FILTAIR connection bracket removed - NEW
                                              New 2013 Design

                                                PRODUCT IMPROVEMENT- Tregaskiss Automatic MIG Gun Series Handles

                                                PRODUCT IMPROVEMENT —
                                                Tregaskiss Automatic Series MIG Gun Handles

                                                March 1, 2013

                                                Tregaskiss is pleased to announce an improvement to our fixed automatic series MIG guns. These robust machine torches are engineered for hard tooling applications requiring a durable welding torch, and they now feature a one-piece high strength phenolic handle.

                                                Image of old style TOUGH GUN in chrome
                                                OLD Design
                                                Image of Tregaskiss MA1 and MW1 MIG Gun
                                                NEW Design