Sheilding Gas

[mikeinfrance]

Can anybody help a novice welder?
I have just received my new Clarke Pro 90 MIG, included was a mini cylinder of 100% Co2. My local Brico in France only has these cylinders with 86% Argon and 14% Co2. I'm welding thin metal 1mm on a 2CV - Can I safely use this mixture?

 

[Furry Freak]

There isn't anything 'unsafe' about the gas, but you must use the correct regulator. They are different for each gas. I think that you'll find that you get better results with the argon mix. I have never used mini bottles therefore I am assuming that different regs are available. Unless the pressure in them etc is somehow controlled so that you get a universal unit. I would try to get a proper sized bottle and regulator if you can. I don't know what rental prices are like over there though.

FF

 

[malcolm]

If it's the disposable bottles the regulator is the same for CO2 and Argon. (It's refillable bottle regs that are different).

The argon/CO2 mix will work much better on thin metal, but won't last as long as the pure CO2.

 

[mikeinfrance]

Thanks for that, I'll try to get Clarke to confirm the regulator is the same for CO2 and Argon and CO2 for disposable cylinders

 

[shenion]

Thanks for that, I'll try to get Clarke to confirm the regulator is the same for CO2 and Argon and CO2 for disposable cylinders

They are the same for disposables.

 

[mikeinfrance]

Clarke's response was quick. Argon & Argon mix CO2 are alternatives which they supply to their dealers so there should be no problem using the disposable bottles with the supplied regulator provided the connecting thread is the same.

According to Clarke they supply CO2 with the welder because it is the cheapest, it also lasts longer. Argon mix will produce a nicer looking weld but you will empty the cylinder quicker as it is compressed gas, CO2 is stored as a liquid so you get more in the cylinder.
Thanks everyone for your assistance.