A pipe (3) pivots in a horizontal plane above the welding zone, and conveys welding fumes into a suction installation. At the end opposite to the pivot axis (4) the pipe has an opening (14) for entry of the welding fumes. The pipe allows the distance between the opening (14) and the axis (4) to be varied. The supply lines on and/or in the pipe are connected to the welding tool (7) using flexible leads (12).