What are the most common and cheap stainless mig gasses?

By Kix

Date 03-23-2007 18:14

Just welding thin gauge stainless in short arc and spray and was wondering if one gas works good for both transfer modes. Trying to save a buck here and get away from the tri mixes. Thanks!!!

By 357max

Date 03-23-2007 18:50

100% argon will provide a ropey and convex GMAW weld bead. Addition of 1-2% oxygen or CO2 to the argon will wet out the weld and help it flow.
There are two Tri-Mix gases for stainless steel, for short circuit it will be 90% helium, 7 1/2% argon and 2 1/2% CO2. For Spray & Pulsed Spray a 94% argon, 5% CO2 and 1% Hydrogen.
Gas choice will be more influenced by post weld treatment (disregarding the issues of carbide precipitation, mechanical properties & corrosion resistance); as welded, grinding or polishing.

By Kix

Date 03-23-2007 20:15

Perfect!! Welp, that sums it up in a nut shell for me. Thanks very much!!!
Kix..

By DaveBoyer (*****)

Date 03-24-2007 02:39

You might have a look at WeldReality.com Ed Craig has some other points of view, and suggests argon with a little CO2 for some aplications.