Non-consumable tungsten electrodes<\/strong><\/em> for GTAW (Gas Tungsten Arc Welding) or TIG (Tungsten Inert Gas) welding, generally are of several types.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Types Of Tungsten Electrodes<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
Tungsten electrodes types and their typical application can be identified by color-coded end marks as follows.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n
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Pure Tungsten : Green<\/li>\n\n\n\n
2% Ceriated : Gray<\/li>\n\n\n\n
2% Thoriated : Red<\/li>\n\n\n\n
2% Zirconiated : Brown<\/li>\n\n\n\n
1.5% Lanthanated : Gold<\/li>\n\n\n\n
2% Lanthanated : Blue<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n
Pure Tungsten Electrodes<\/strong> <\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Pure tungsten electrodes are generally used on less critical welding operations than the tungsten electrodes that are alloyed. This type of electrode is used for AC welding, has a relatively low current carrying capacity and a low resistance to contamination.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Thoriated tungsten electrodes<\/strong> (1 or 2% thorium) are superior to pure tungsten electrodes because of their higher electron output, better arc-starting and arc stability, high current-carrying capacity, longer life, and greater resistance to contamination. 2% thoriated tungsten electrodes can be used for AC welding, but they excel in DC electrode negative (straight polarity) GTAW on carbon and stainless steel, nickel, and titanium. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Welding operators should note that 2% of thoriated tungsten electrodes contain low levels of radioactivity. Therefore, they must always follow the manufacturer\u2019s warnings, instructions, and the MSDS (Material Safety Data Sheet) for their use.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Lanthanated tungsten electrodes<\/strong> contain a minimum of 97.80% tungsten and 1.30% to 1.70% lanthanum, or lanthana, both 1.5 and 2% lanthanated tungsten electrodes offer excellent arc starting at low amperages, provide long electrode life and stability, and have a low burn-off rate. They also resist tip wear. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
The 2% lanthanated tungsten electrodes are considered to have superior characteristics. 2% lanthanated tungsten electrodes are often used in critical applications, such as in the aviation industry, and can be used to replace 2% thoriated tungsten electrodes. Both electrodes are well suited to welding carbon steel, stainless steel, nickel alloys, titanium, and aluminum. <\/p>\n\n\n\n