Shielding gases are a general term for a range of products used in the joining and cutting of predominantly metallic materials. can be individual gases or gas mixtures.
Uses And Features of Shielding Gases
- They protect the molten metal in the weld from oxygen and nitrogen in the atmosphere. Unprotected molten metal can be weakened by oxygen and nitrogen causing a range of problems including weld failure, defects in the weld metal and decreased corrosion resistance.
- The choice of shielding gas is determined by the material, the process being used, and the performance and properties required by the customer.
- Argon and Argon based mixtures predominate the joining of metals. Shielding gases are used with arc welding and cutting process such as MIG, TIG, and PAC.
- They can strongly influence the properties of weld metal and even the shape and size of the weld bead.