Tungsten is a rare metallic element used for manufacturing gas tungsten arc welding (GTAW) electrodes. The GTAW process relies on tungsten's hardness and high-temperature resistance to carry the welding current to the arc. Tungsten has the highest melting point of any metal, 3,410 degrees Celsius.

APPLICATIONS

The most common TIG electrode, preferred for longevity and ease of use. Operating far below its melting temp, resulting in a considerably lower rate of consumption and eliminates arc wandering for greater stability. Compared with other electrodes, thoriated electrodes deposit less tungsten into the weld puddle, causing less weld contamination. Used for specialty AC welding (thin-gauge aluminum and material less than 0.060 inch) and DC welding, either electrode (-) or straight polarity (+), on carbon steel, stainless steel, nickel, and titanium. In manufacturing, thorium is evenly dispersed throughout the electrode, helps maintain its sharp edge, ideal electrode shape for welding thin steel.