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The HTP argon flow meter is a MIG and TIG gas flow gauge that the Amazon listing describes with a 0 to 4000 PSI cylinder gauge, a 10 to 60 CFH flow range and a 1/4 inch barb outlet. It is worth considering if you need a replacement flow gauge for argon, helium or nitrogen cylinders; skip it if you plan to use it on a CO2 cylinder, since the listing says it is not suitable for CO2.
This review is based on the listing and general gas-setup practice, not hands-on testing. The product name on Amazon mentions CO2, which conflicts with the compatibility note, so read the compatibility section before ordering.
HTP argon flow meter at a glance
| Item | Detail |
|---|---|
| Type | Gas flow meter / regulator style gauge for MIG and TIG |
| Cylinder gauge (per listing) | 0 to 4000 PSI |
| Flow range (per listing) | 10 to 60 CFH |
| Gases (per listing) | Argon, helium, nitrogen; listing says not for CO2 |
| Body (per listing) | Copper |
| Fittings (per listing) | 9/16-18 male nut or 5/8-18 female fitting, 1/4 in barb |
| Size (per listing) | About 6.7 x 4.9 x 4.9 in |
Read the compatibility notes on the current listing, since the title and the description do not fully agree on CO2. Inlet connection type to your cylinder is not clearly spelled out in the listing text available, so confirm it.
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What it is and who it suits
A flow meter or regulator-flowmeter controls how much shielding gas reaches the torch. Too little gas lets air into the weld and causes porosity. Too much wastes gas and can cause turbulence that also pulls air in. A gauge showing cylinder pressure lets you see how much gas is left.
- TIG welders running argon who want to set flow in CFH.
- MIG welders using argon-based mixes who need a replacement gauge.
- Hobbyists whose old regulator is worn or has a cracked flow tube.
The 10 to 60 CFH range is a wide one. Many TIG jobs run at the low end, around 10 to 25 CFH, and MIG often runs higher. Always set flow to your process and drafts.
How to check compatibility and fit
- Gas type. The listing says argon, helium and nitrogen, not CO2. CO2 cylinders use a different outlet connection, and the physical valve is not the same as on an argon cylinder. Argon/CO2 mixes such as C25 commonly use the same connection as argon in the US, but confirm with your gas supplier and the listing.
- Cylinder connection. Check the inlet type for your cylinder valve. In the US, argon, helium and nitrogen cylinders commonly use CGA 580. Confirm in the listing photos that the inlet nut matches.
- Outlet. The listing mentions a 9/16-18 fitting and a 1/4 in barb. Make sure your hose or adapter matches.
- Pressure. A 0 to 4000 PSI gauge covers typical argon cylinders. Never connect a regulator to a cylinder with a higher pressure than it is rated for.
- Is it a regulator or just a gauge. Confirm whether it reduces pressure to a safe outlet level. Do not connect unregulated high pressure to a torch.
Pros and limitations
Pros
- Wide 10 to 60 CFH range for TIG and MIG.
- Pressure gauge shows when a cylinder is running low.
- Metal construction, per the listing, is sturdier than plastic.
Limitations
- The listing says it is not for CO2, so check before using a 100% CO2 cylinder.
- Wide range means less resolution at the low flow rates TIG uses.
- Fitting specifics need checking against your cylinder and hose.
- Warranty terms are not clear from the listing.
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Setup and safety tips
- Wear safety glasses. Open cylinder valves slowly while standing to the side of the gauge.
- Do not use oil or grease on any gas fitting. Use clean threads and the correct wrench.
- Leak test with soapy water after connecting.
- Secure the cylinder upright with a chain or cart.
- Close the cylinder valve and bleed the line when you finish for the day.
- Set flow with gas flowing, as the reading at rest does not show the working flow.
Alternatives and related guides
- Meanlin argon regulator flow meter review: another argon regulator and flow meter to compare
- Dual-output argon regulator flow meter review: a regulator with two outlets
- Weldingstop gas regulator review: a regulator option for shop gas setups
- Boltigen 3/4 inch gas valve review: a related gas valve for your setup
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use this flow meter on a CO2 cylinder?
The listing says it is not suitable for CO2 cylinders, even though Amazon’s title mentions CO2. CO2 uses a different cylinder connection and often a different regulator. Use a CO2-rated regulator for CO2, and verify with the seller.
What flow rate should I set for TIG welding?
Many TIG setups run in the range of roughly 10 to 25 CFH of argon, depending on cup size, joint and drafts. Larger cups need more. Check your torch and consumable guidance and adjust for drafts, verifying with your own tests.
What does CFH mean?
CFH is cubic feet per hour, a measure of how much shielding gas flows. Most flow meters show it on a scale. Because readings can vary with the tube and gas, set flow while gas is running and check for leaks.
Will it fit my argon cylinder?
In the US, argon cylinders commonly use a CGA 580 valve, but you should confirm with your gas supplier and the inlet nut on this product. If the inlet is not the same, do not force it. Use the correct fitting or a different regulator.
Bottom line
The HTP argon flow meter looks like a straightforward gauge for argon, helium and nitrogen with a wide 10 to 60 CFH range. Check CO2 compatibility, the cylinder inlet and your hose fittings before you order.
Check the current price on Amazon →
