Pure Argon is the standard shielding gas for most TIG welding applications because it provides excellent arc stability and clean welds. Helium or Argon/Helium mixtures may be used for thicker materials where additional heat input is required. Typical Argon flow rates range from 6 to 12 litres per minute, depending on nozzle size, joint design and environmental conditions.
What shielding gas should I use for TIG welding?
Pure Argon is the go-to shielding gas for the vast majority of TIG work because it delivers excellent arc stability and clean welds. For thicker materials that need more heat input, Helium or Argon/Helium mixtures may be used. Using the correct shielding gas helps reduce contamination, improve penetration and produce high-quality welds.
What gas flow rate should I use for TIG welding?
Typical Argon flow rates range from 6 to 12 litres per minute, depending on nozzle size, joint design and environmental conditions. The key is balance: excessive gas flow can create turbulence that actually draws air into the weld zone, while insufficient flow may lead to contamination. Always adjust the flow rate to suit the application rather than relying on a single fixed setting.
Getting the most from your shielding gas
How effectively the gas shields the weld also depends on the torch set-up. A gas lens smooths the gas flow around the tungsten and improves coverage, particularly on stainless steel and difficult-to-access joints.
Shielding gas does its job on the front of the weld — but on stainless steel pipework the rear of the weld needs protecting too. That is the role of back purging, which we cover in our TIG welding stainless steel guide. Poor gas coverage is also a leading cause of porosity and other TIG defects.
Need help specifying gas and accessories?
Choosing the right gas, nozzle and flow rate for your material can be the difference between a clean weld and a contaminated one. The Weldability SIF team can advise on the right TIG consumables and accessories for your application — get in touch.