Can I use pure Argon in my MIG?

[rcx375]

I've got three full bottles of pure Argon bought for my TIG, but I need to use a MIG now. Could I be a cheap skate and use it in my MIG welder? Or should I go ahead and get the proper 95% argon for a MIG?

 

[Wozzaaah]

If it's non-critical stuff and you don't really care how it looks then you'll probably get away with it but those on here who've tried it did just that and soon realised a proper mix is much better.

 

[rcx375]

So it just won't shield so good? Like using CO2?

 

[Wozzaaah]

I've never tried it but I gather it gives tall ugly welds with little penetration.

 

[Wozzaaah]

CO2 shields fine by the way, many people use it with no issues.

 

[Jan]

Are these full size cylinders or just disposables? If the latter then there's not a lot of cash invested in them and they can be left on the shelf for when they may come in handy. If they're refillable cylinders there may be a resale or deposit value to be got for them.
As I understand the chemistry, the carbon and oxygen in the CO2 take an active part in mild or stainless welding which you don't get with pure argon.

For mixed gas check out the details of the 'Volkszone deal' in the Shielding Gas area of the forum.

 

[rcx375]

Ok it sounds like it's not worth the risk. I'll get some proper gas delivered, I'll just need to wait for the next delivery.

Thanks everyone

 

[Kent]

obviously you talking welding mild steel with the mig? there are still times to use argon on a mig so its not lost

 

[rcx375]

The argon will get used in my Tig eventually. Plus the supplier, Barnet Gas, were happy to exchange any full bottles last time. That's how I ended up with so much Argon, I had gas for both my TIG and MIG, and when I sold my MIG they swapped the remaining full bottles for Argon. Now I've just ordered a new MIG so I need both types again.

 

[rcx375]

I tried it anyway just because I wanted to try out the new Kemppi Minarcmig Evo 200 which arrived today But I won't use the pure argon for any real work. Wish I had more scrap lying around to play on :/

Funny how it all comes back to you. I haven't MIG welded in years and immediately my hand took control of the torch like I'd never left. I have forgotten a few things though. Should I spray the nozzle with anti splatter spray? Or do they already resist splatter?

 

[Jan]

Anti spatter sprays are optional although I'm not aware of any differences in nozzle composition over the past few years. Some claim that vegetable cooking oil is as good as a proprietary spray. When filing back some to remove persistent spatter they appeared to chrome plated copper or brass. Is it beyond the wit of a manufacturer to give them a non-stick coating - eg, Teflon?

 

[awemawson]

I've regularly used pure argon on my MIG. I rent a large BOC bottle for my TIG and it saves renting another with mixed gases. Never had any issues using it.