Proper Torch Angle for TIG Welding vs Whatever it Takes

What is the proper Torch angle for TIG welding?

Is there even a proper angle?  Does it really matter that much?

Text books tell us that the proper torch angle is 15-20 degrees.  But some text books vary and state 0-15 degrees.  So who is right?  Where did they get these numbers from?

In my opinion torch angle does matter can be very forgiving provided arc length is right.

On a welding bench with a simple fillet weld in front of you, sure 15 degrees works fine.

But different situations call for different torch angles.

For example, TIG welding aluminum requires a much different torch angle than walking the cup on carbon steel pipe.

A steep angle works great for walking the cup on carbon steel, but that same steep angle would probably make the filler wire ball up on aluminum.

The video on this page demonstrates what text books recommend but also what works when you dont have any choice when it comes to tig torch angles.

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