Welding is one of the most important industrial processes of joining metals together. With over 600,000 certified welders in the United States alone, the process of joining metals is essential to many industrial operations. One of the most important elements of the process is the selection of the right shielding gas.
So, what shielding gas should be used for TIG welding? Well, that depends on the type of metal being welded and the desired results.
According to the American Welding Society, more than 80 percent of TIG welds are done with Argon as the shielding gas. This article will discuss in detail the various shielding gases that are used for TIG welding, what each type of gas is used for, and their advantages and disadvantages.
So let’s get started and learn more about what shielding gas is used for TIG welding.
What shielding gas is used for TIG welding?
TIG welding, also known as Gas Tungsten Arc Welding (GTAW), is a popular form of welding used in many industries. But in order for TIG welding to be done properly, it needs to incorporate the right shielding gases to provide adequate protection against contamination and oxidation.
So what shielding gases are used for TIG welding? This article will discuss the various types of shielding gases and why they are used for TIG welding.
Types of Shielding Gases
The two most common types of shielding gases used for TIG welding are Argon and Helium. Argon is an inert, odorless, colorless gas and is the most commonly used shielding gas for TIG welding.
Helium, on the other hand, is a much lighter gas with a higher heat transfer and is used for welding aluminum and stainless steel.
Other shielding gases that are used for TIG welding are Carbon Dioxide, Hydrogen, and Nitrogen. Carbon dioxide is most often used for basic steel welding, while hydrogen is suitable for welding a variety of metals including aluminum, steel, and stainless steel.
For more complex welds, nitrogen may be added to the Argon/Helium mix in order to reduce the risk of warping or distortion.
What Are The Benefits Of Shielding Gases?
Using a suitable shielding gas is essential for successful TIG welding because it helps protect the weld area from pollution and oxidation, thus eliminating any discoloration. In addition, it helps to reduce the risk of warping or distortion and ensures a higher quality of weld.
The other main benefit of using a shielding gas is that it helps to reduce fatigue and allows the welder to work without interruption for longer periods of time.
Without a good shielding gas, the weld can become contaminated and inconsistent, causing problems with the weld quality.
Conclusion
When it comes to TIG welding, the right shielding gas is essential in order to ensure a successful weld and high-quality welds. Argon and Helium, when used in combination, create an inert atmosphere that helps to protect the weld area from oxidation and contamination. Carbon Dioxide, Hydrogen, and Nitrogen can also be used to provide additional protection against warping and distortion, as well as improved weld quality.
Using shielding gases that are specifically designed for TIG welding is essential for successful TIG welding results.
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