Argon is an inert gas that can create a shield to boost the quality of your welding projects. Because argon mixes vary, Wayne Oxygen & Welding Supply Co. wants to be certain that customers throughout Virginia have the information they need to make the right selection. The following illustrates the importance that argon mixes play in the realm of welding, as well as the different mixes currently available.

What Benefits Do Argon Mixes Provide?

If you’re working with metals such as aluminum, titanium, or magnesium, argon has a lot to offer. Thanks to its inherent arc stability, there is less risk of a weld that features potentially ruinous defects. You’ll also have to worry less about cleanup once the weld is complete, as argon is known for its consistency, including both the appearance of the weld as well as its overall quality. Argon for MIG welding is also associated with low levels of spatter, which are the sparks produced by a welder during the process.

What Types of Mixes Are Available?

Argon mixed with carbon dioxide tends to work best for stainless steel and low-alloy types of metals. In general, the higher the carbon dioxide level, the greater the penetration of the metal — although spatter can increase with less argon present. There is also an argon-hydrogen mix, which allows for higher temperatures to the base material while also decreasing atmosphere, which is helpful for enhancing the cleanliness of a weld.

When welding aluminum, a mix of argon and helium might be best. This mixture is known for staving off oxidation while also increasing the fluidity of the weld pool and enhancing travel speed, or the rate in which the arc of the weld moves along the item being worked on.

For nearly six decades, Wayne Oxygen & Welding Supply Co. has provided a sizable selection of welding supplies, including argon mixes. This trusted team will also assist you in making the right purchase for your specific project, whether you’re a professional welder or merely a hobbyist. If you’d like more information on the complete listing of services, visit the website today. You can also call (540) 942-4145 to contact the Waynesboro, VA, location, or to learn more about their other convenient Virginia shops, including locations in Charlottesville and Harrisonburg. They also carry products from Lincoln Electric® and Miller Electric®.