Underwater cutting and welding torch

In an underwater cutting and welding torch of the type including an electrically conductive head including means for gripping an electrode for positioning relative to a workpiece, said head further adapted to permit working fluid to be admitted to a passage in said electrode, said torch including means to connect said head to a source of electrical current and, valve means to admit fluid to said head the improvement comprising:

• a one-piece insulating body having a shape adapted to be held comfortably by a user thus enabling said user to easily direct said electrode at said workpiece said body further constructed and arranged, in combination with positive sealing means, to exclude water from contacting the electrically conductive portions of said torch at those locations where said valve means communicates with said head through a passage in said body, where an electrical conductor contacts said means to connect said head to a source of electrical current and between said body and removable gripping means mounted for electrical contact with said head to grip said electrode thus preventing movement of said electrode during a cutting or welding operation, said body further adapted to prevent escape of working fluid from said torch.