in Argon gas is one of the more common shielding gases used by welders worldwide. Even though many welders use argon regularly, they may not know all the benefits of using argon as a shielding gas. Here are the benefits of Argon gas and why it is such a great shielding gas for welding projects. 

What is Argon? 

Argon is a shielding gas used often in welding to help protect the project from water or oxygen interfering with the weld. Using Argon as a shielding gas helps prevent any reaction that could be a problem during the welding process. 

Argon gas works best with Titanium, Magnesium, and Aluminum. While you can combine Argon with Carbon Dioxide or other shielding gases, it is mainly used by itself. 

Why do Welders Use Argon Gas? 

Welders like to use argon as their shielding gas for good protection. Argon helps keep welders safe from very high temperatures. When two metals are melting together, sometimes they can interfere and react with one another. Argon helps prevent all of this from happening.

Not only does it protect the metals and the welder, but argon is also non-flammable. It will not burn even when exposed to high temperatures, heat, or any flames or sparks. Argon also doesn’t emit anything toxic, so it is very safe. 

Benefits of Argon 

There are many benefits of using Argon as your shielding gas. As mentioned earlier, it is non-flammable and is non-toxic. 

Argon gas is most beneficial for maintaining the stability of an arc. Argon also helps with a narrower penetration, so it produces a cleaner weld. 

Another benefit of using argon as your shielding gas is that it helps avoid splatter. It will also give you a flatter bed profile, and also helps you to not overweld. 

Overall, Argon is a safe shielding gas that gives your final project a clean look. 

Disadvantages of Argon

While Argon gas is an amazing shielding gas with many benefits, there are also some disadvantages.

One of the biggest problems with Argon gas is that it increases its presence in the air when in use. Argon is denser than air, which can become a problem. To avoid this, make sure to use Argon outside or in a space with a lot of ventilation. 

Using Argon also is a slower process as it gives off less heat. While there is a quicker clean- up time, the overall process might be the same as using another shielding gas. 

Argon is an incredibly powerful shielding gas and has a variety of benefits. If you have any questions about using Argon in your next project, rely on the KnowHow of your nexAir representative to make sure you have everything you need to get started and to get the job done right!