Argon for metalfabrication industry - Welcome to Nippon Gases

The inert gas par excellence

Noble gas, 1.38 times heavier than air, has a low ionization potential, so it can facilitate the formation of an electric arc. Argon has a tendency to concentrate penetration of the weld bead into the base material. It also offers a good influence on the stabilization of the electric arc.

- 186°C

Boiling point
1,52J/mol

First ionisation energy (low ionization energy, simple to create electric arc.)
1,3797

Relative density (more heavy of air, good protection in each positions.)

Why is argon used in metal welding and cutting?

Its properties make argon the best gas for metal welding. Sometimes used in combination with other gases such as helium, hydrogen, carbon dioxide or oxygen, it protects the metal from oxidation, slag and contamination, providing the ideal conditions for its processing. Argon can also be used in laser cutting to cut titanium and magnesium alloys.

In detail:

Thermal stability: argon retains its properties even at high temperatures, which are required in welding operations;
Chemical inertness: argon prevents the formation of oxides or other impurities, resulting in a clean, high-quality weld bead;
Insulating action: it can be used as a shielding gas in TIG (Tungsten Inert Gas) or MIG (Metal Inert Gas) welding, preventing the molten metal from coming into contact with the air;
Low ionisation temperature: it is also suitable for PSW (Plasma Arc Welding), where it is used not only as a shielding gas but also to generate the electric arc (plasma gas).