Argoshield light for stainless?

[gordon stephenson]

I have only ever used Argoshield universal for mild steel mig, Will Argoshield light be OK to weld stainless steel as well, And get decent welds on both materials, Or any suggestions for a gas that will cover both metals,No heavy section materials, usually 6mm or under.

 

[backpurge]

Gordon
Depends what end result you are after, you can, and people do, use argoshield light for welding stainless but it is not recommended due to the fact you have 2% oxygen that will cause surface oxide formation and a higher than ideal C02 content

The recommended mixtures are either 2.5% CO2 in argon (which is OK for mild steel sheet metalwork) or Ar/He/CO2 mixtures if you want a really pucker finish

For years the "standard" gas mix for stainless was argon+2% O2 but frankly the results are crappy compared to an argon/2.5%CO2 mixture

 

[gordon stephenson]

Thanks backpurge,
I don't want to have to rent another bottle,but don't mind paying extra if I can get a satisfactory gas to do both metals.Will have to look at the BOC range which is where I have the account.

 

[backpurge]

Ask for Specshield 2.5% CO2, dont't forget to get your travel speed up, a lot of people fall into the trap of running with not enough power and welding too slowly

 

[gordon stephenson]

Thanks again, Will change to that when my present bottle of universal runs out,
Do the depots normally keep all the variations of specshield or do you normally have to order in advance.

 

[backpurge]

I would ask for it in advance to be on the safe side

 

[penfold]

Surely argon + 2.5%CO2 is the standard gas for general SS work? Unless you're welding the space shuttle or a nuclear reactor why would you use owt else?

 

[backpurge]

Argon + 2.5% CO2 is fine for most applications but if you want to weld faster, get better fusion/penetration, improve the profile, reduce surface oxide formation there are other gases you can try, it all depends what you want

 

[gordon stephenson]

As I'm just a hobby welder not bothered about speed,As long as I get a strong joint with a decent looking appearance i'm happy, And if argon+2.5%co2 will do for mild and stainless that will be a good bonus,