An electric arc is formed at the tip of a welding electrode. This is the point where welds are formed. Shielding gases surround the tip of the electrode and the arc that is formed. They keep the arc stable by preventing erratic, uncontrolled movement; improve welding penetration; and keep the weld point contaminant-free.
Utilizing a shielding gas while welding offers a number of benefits. Shielding gases contribute to welds that are smooth in appearance. They also increase the quality and durability of the weld. Shielding gases ensure that contaminants do not compromise the integrity of the weld. Welding is much easier to perform while using a shielding gas.
Argon often gets combined with other gases in welding. MIG welding applications employ argon as a shielding gas or a combination of argon and carbon dioxide, argon and helium or argon and oxygen. TIG welding applications employ argon or a combination of argon and helium or argon and hydrogen as shielding gas.