Many industries require a constant supply of ultra-high-quality gases. This is especially true for welding and medicine.

Gases like helium, argon, and carbon dioxide are crucial to the welding process. Meanwhile, in the healthcare sector, gases like oxygen, nitrogen, and nitrous oxide have life-saving applications.

Given how important these gases are to these crucial industries, any impurity, or incorrect blend can significantly impact the safety, quality, and effectiveness of their operations. 

Let’s take a closer look at how these gases are used in these two industries and gain a better understanding of why the purity of gas is so crucial.

Welding Applications

Several gases are used for welding. Some inert gases, such as argon and CO2, are used to protect the weld pool from being contaminated by impurities such as dust and other atmospheric gases. Other gases, such as nitrogen, are used to protect weld penetration and arc stability.

Why is purity important? 

Take the case of argon for instance. Most professionals prefer using at least 99.95% pure argon as it doesn’t react with molten metals the way other gases do. Higher purity argon prevents the metal from being oxidized, resulting in higher weld quality. 

Even a small amount of oxygen can cause spattering or leave holes in the bead, leading to cracks and reduced corrosion resistance.

Carbon dioxide, meanwhile, is used to create a deep weld penetration. When CO2 is combined with other gases, it leads to a less stable arc and more splatter.

To ensure the highest quality welds, it’s essential that these gases meet predetermined standards of purity. 

Medical Applications

Gas purity is also important in medicine. Pure oxygen is used to treat a variety of respiratory issues, while nitrous oxide is known for its anesthetic properties and applications in dentistry.

Medical oxygen must have a purity of 99.7% and higher, especially since it is used in a number of emergency procedures.

This gas is essential for the treatment of medical issues like carbon monoxide poisoning, cardiac arrests, and severe hemorrhages. Any impurity could severely impact the health of a patient and cause a host of issues in the recovery process. 

But it isn’t just patients who rely on the purity of gases. Nitrogen, for example, has a number of laboratory and research applications as a useful carrier and balancing gas. Any impurity or incorrect blend can not only damage expensive equipment but also compromise the accuracy of results. 

In fact, most medical facilities are required to inspect their gas systems regularly to protect not only their patients but their equipment as well. 

Ensure Gas Purity With nexAir 

The right gas purity could make or break the welding process or make a life-and-death difference in medical settings. This is why nexAir does more than supply high-quality industrial-grade gases. We also provide the KnowHow to ensure that our gases enable maximum efficiency. With our expertise and pure gas supplies, professionals can focus on their work and Forge Forward unhindered.