what is blue tungsten used for?

Tungsten Inert Gas (TIG) welding, also known as Gas Tungsten Arc Welding (GTAW), is a popular welding method that uses a non-consumable tungsten electrode to create the weld. It's often chosen for its ability to produce high-quality, precise welds on various metals. The tungsten electrode is a fundamental part of the process, as it channels the current needed to build up the bend. 

The tungsten electrodes can be alloyed with an assortment of metals. Various sorts and sizes of electrodes are utilized for multiple welds and materials, and welders foster inclinations dependent on welding style and venture. Specific TIG electrodes perform better with rotating current (AC) rather than direct current (DC). Electrodes are delivered without a ground tip to make a tight, sharp point to accomplish an amazing and exact bend to guarantee a spotless weld. 

Tungsten Electrodes: Color Code

There are many tungsten electrode types that are used for different applications. Each tungsten electrode has a different configuration of tungsten depending on its type. These tungsten electrodes are also recognized by their color codes:

• Pure Tungsten Electrodes - Green
• 2% Thoriated Electrodes - Red
• Ceriated Electrodes - Orange
• Lanthanated Electrodes - Blue
• Zirconiated Electrodes - Brown
• Rare Earth Electrodes - Grey

Next, we will explore the wide range of uses of the blue tungsten electrode, also known as 2% lanthanated tungsten electrode.

Why is Blue Tungsten So Versatile and Widely Adopted?

The 2% lanthanated tungsten electrode is different due to its optimal combination of tungsten with lanthanum oxide (lanthanum). This doping agent greatly improves electron emission, making it easier to create and maintain a stable arc. Unlike some other electrode types that work in only one current type, the lanthanum addition provides excellent performance in both alternating current (AC) and direct current (DC) applications. This versatility makes 'Blue Tungsten' the best choice for welders looking for an electrode type capable of handling a wide range of welding tasks efficiently and effectively.

Blue lanthanide electrodes are mainstream because of their overall simplicity in striking a curve and the lower amperage required. They perform exceptionally well in both AC and DC applications and are mainstream, general-use electrodes. Blue electrodes are compelling for welding aluminum amalgams, magnesium combinations, nickel compounds, copper composites, titanium composites, low-alloyed prepares, and non-consuming prepares.

These electrodes have a superb curve beginning, a low burnoff rate, great curve security, and excellent reignition qualities—many similar benefits as ceriated terminals. Lanthanated electrodes additionally share the conductivity attributes of 2% thoriated tungsten. At times, 2% percent lanthanide tungsten can supplant 2% thoriated without making massive welding program changes.

The superior arc starting and reinitiation properties of lanthanated electrodes translate into less downtime and increased productivity for the welder. Their low burn-off rate also contributes to longer electrode life, reducing the frequency of replacement and overall operating costs. For shops aiming to move away from thoriated electrodes due to radioactivity concerns, blue lanthanated tungsten offers an attractive, non-radioactive option that often requires minimal adjustments to existing welding parameters, providing a seamless transition without compromising weld quality or performance.

Lanthanated tungsten electrodes are great, assuming you need to upgrade your welding abilities. They function admirably on AC or DC electrodes negative with a sharp end, or they can be ball-shaped for use with AC sine wave power sources.

In contrast to thoriated tungsten, these blue tungsten electrodes are suitable for AC welding and, as ceriated electrodes, permit the circular segment to be begun and kept up with at lower voltages. Contrasted and unadulterated tungsten, the expansion of 1.5 percent lanthana builds the greatest current-conducting limit by roughly 50% for a given terminal size.