Gas for welding 316 stainless plate

[F.J.]

Hi guy's.
I'm getting ready to complete my codes for 316 stainless next Monday and have to supply the gear to do it with ie: wire, steel and gas. Ive got the wire and the steel but i am totally confused as to what gas to get. I used to use Stainshield Universal where i used to work but dont want to pay the prices quoted considering i only need the gas for a few practice pieces and two test pieces. The welding inspector advised that i use the same gas but as stated i dont want the initial cost of renting a bottle that i will hardly ever use once tested (I have a contract sorted once coded but too far away for me to borrow thier bottle for the day). Ive been ringing around for other quotes on similar gasses and found Stellar 6 to be closest - 63% Ar, 35% He, 2% C02 as opposed to Stainshield being 43% Ar, 55% He, 2% C02. Would the difference in % in the He and Ar make a big difference to the plate i am welding? I am doing an overhead butt weld on 6mm plate if this helps.
Thanks

 

[TechnicAl]

The helium aids penetration so lower He will give less pen. It should be Ok but I suspect to you will notice the difference.

 

[backpurge]

As Al says you shouldn't notice a massive difference, you will probably just need to "tweak" the voltage a bit

Best of luck

 

[Hitch]

Dont know how small the smalles AirProducts Inomaxx cylinders are, have you tried AP?

 

[F.J.]

Ive just spoken to Air Products and thier emailing me quote on Innomaxx Plus. Unfortunatley they only do it in 5ft bottles so im not too confident on the price being reasonable. Will post again when i get the quote. I knew the He helps the penetration as it burns hotter but i wasnt sure if a 20% drop would make a big difference. Cheers for the info

 

[F.J.]

Price for 5ft bottle of Innomaxx = £68 cylinder + £105 for the year rental. Not the worst price ive had but still a lot of money to be stood i my workshop while im away working. I dont suppose anyone knows of anyone who can fill bottles or get any cheaper?
Thanks