How to weld > Shielding gas
Argon
Argon also enhances the formation of the spray arc transfer.
However, a 100% argon shielding gas would lead to an unstable arc so the shielding gases need to include another gas component that has the ability to stabilize the arc.
Argon promotes a narrow and intense arc that produces a deep penetration profile in the center of the weld metal, often called the argon finger, see illustration below. It lowers the heat transfer capacity in the melt during welding; contributing to a narrower penetration profile for each weld pass.
The penetration profile promoted by a shielding gas with high argon content.
The negative effects from a relatively small and narrow penetration profile include an increased risk for lack of fusion in the joint. In addition, it result in a somewhat higher susceptibility towards porosity in the weld metal.
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