Types of tungsten electrodes: A complete guide for welders
Tungsten electrodes are an indispensable component in TIG (tungsten inert gas) welding, offering excellent high-temperature resistance and durability. Selecting the appropriate type of tungsten electrode has a significant impact on welding quality, arc stability, and overall performance. Below, we will discuss in detail the most common types of tungsten electrodes, their composition, and their optimal applications.
1. Pure tungsten (WP/green)
Pure tungsten electrodes (green label) contain at least 99.5% tungsten and are suitable for AC welding, especially for welding materials such as aluminum and magnesium. When heated, they form a smooth spherical welding tip, ensuring a stable arc. However, they wear out faster than alloy electrodes, so they are more suitable for low to medium current welding applications.
2. Thoriated Tungsten (WT-20/Red)
Thorium tungsten wire (thorium content 1.7%-2.2%, red label) is widely used in DC welding due to its excellent arc striking performance, long service life, and high current carrying capacity. This material is commonly used for welding carbon steel, stainless steel, and nickel alloys. However, thorium is slightly radioactive, so strict safety procedures must be followed during use, and good ventilation must be ensured.
3. Ceriated Tungsten (WC-20/Grey)
Cerium tungsten (containing 2% cerium, gray label) performs excellently in both AC and DC welding, enabling easy arc striking and maintaining good stability at low currents. As a non-radioactive alternative to thorium tungsten, it has a wide range of applications and is particularly suitable for welding thin materials and precision welding.
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