Mini gas bottles

[rogerowen]

I've just converted my Gas-less Clarke EN90 to gas - Wow, what a difference!!!

But, my gas ran out very quickly. The regulator doesn't have a gauge. The bottle was Argon/Co2.

Should I not open the valve fully?

If I get a gauge - what reading should I be looking for?

I got a Co2 only from motor shop (very pricey). Is Argon mix better for thin sheet?

Thanks.

 

[Wozzaaah]

Moved to the correct section.

Disposables last for 10 mins of welding if you're lucky, they are a very expensive option if you have a lot of work to do.
Unfortunately you need those mini regs fully open.
Normal flow rate is between 8 and 12 lpm depending on conditions.
Argon/co2 mix will give a nicer weld with less spatter.

 

[rogerowen]

Ouch! That's going to put a big dent in my Morris Minor resto project. Would hate to go back to gas-less.

Thanks for the info.

 

[pedrobedro]

A friend of mine used to use the co2 cylinders as they hold more and he turned the gas off even between tacks when he was welding to make it last longer. It did seem to work for him as well.

 

[rogerowen]

Thanks, I'll give that a try. Have to remember to turn it on though - been using gas-less for so long!

 

[Fintray]

Consider the BOC Volkzone offer for your gas as much cheaper than disposables when you are doing a fair bit of welding.
http://www.mig-welding.co.uk/forum/showthread.php?t=40809

 

[rogerowen]

That's very useful - thanks.

 

[marlinspike]

Even if you don't go for the Volkszone deal there are cheaper options than disposables. There is a list of suppliers by region on the forum - can't do a link at the moment. Some of these alliw you to pay a deposit, say 50 quid, and then £35 per fill of gas. This saves renting a bottle, which might be better if you don't have regular welding to do.