Welding gases and Gas Storage
Welding gases are vital components in various welding techniques, serving to create a controlled environment around the welding arc and aid in metal fusion. They fulfill multiple functions, such as shielding the weld area from contamination by atmospheric gases, regulating heat input, and improving weld quality.
Different types of welding gases are employed in different welding processes, each with its own specific applications:
Shielding Gases: These gases, including argon, helium, carbon dioxide, or their combinations, are utilized to shield the weld area from atmospheric gases like oxygen and nitrogen. By preventing oxidation and contamination of the molten metal, they ensure high-quality welds. The choice of shielding gas depends on factors such as the welding method, material, and desired weld properties.
Inert Gases: Argon and helium, inert gases commonly used in gas tungsten arc welding (GTAW) or TIG welding, do not chemically react with the metals being welded. They aid in producing clean, quality welds, with argon being particularly favored for its stability and accessibility.
Active Gases: Active gases like carbon dioxide (CO2) or oxygen are sometimes added to shielding gas mixtures to modify the welding process. CO2, for instance, is often used in gas metal arc welding (GMAW) or MIG welding to enhance penetration and arc stability. Oxygen may also be incorporated to improve arc characteristics and welding speed.
Fluxes: Fluxes, used alongside shielding gases in certain welding processes like flux-cored arc welding (FCAW) and submerged arc welding (SAW), serve to remove impurities, shield the weld pool, and ease the welding process. These fluxes contribute to achieving high-quality welds across diverse applications.
Specialty Gases: Specialty gases, such as nitrogen, hydrogen, or customized mixtures, find applications in specialized welding tasks. For instance, nitrogen may enhance weld cleanliness and reduce corrosion risk in specific stainless steel welding applications.
Overall, welding gases play an indispensable role in modern welding practices, ensuring the creation of robust welds essential for various metal fabrication tasks. Selection of the appropriate welding gas or gas mixture depends on several factors, including welding technique, material, desired weld characteristics, and environmental considerations.
DSW offers a wide selection of welding gases, including oxygen, argon, helium, carbon dioxide, and specialty gas mixtures tailored to specific welding processes and applications.