In TIG welding, the gas flow rate is adjusted via the pressure regulator on the gas cylinder. The correct setting depends on the diameter of the gas nozzle used. Below you will find the procedure as well as the associated rule of thumb for calculating the optimal flow rate.
Setting the Gas Flow Rate
The gas flow rate is displayed on the flow meter of the pressure regulator.
The pressure in the gas cylinder is shown on the content pressure gauge.
The gas nozzle diameter is usually indicated on the ceramic nozzle of the TIG torch and can alternatively be determined using a caliper. Common sizes range between 8 and 16 mm.
Use the following rule of thumb to calculate the optimal flow rate:
Gas nozzle diameter [mm] × Gas nozzle diameter [mm] / 17 = Gas flow rate [l/min]
The gas flow rate is displayed on the flow meter of the pressure regulator. The pressure in the gas cylinder is shown on the content pressure gauge.
Procedure
- Open the gas valve on the gas cylinder.
- Open the gas flow on the welding machine. Depending on the device and torch, there are two options:
- Torch with gas control valve (e.g. for TIG welding with the RED MIG 210 SYN): Open the gas valve on the torch.
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Gas test via the control panel (e.g. RED TIG 180 DC): Press both arrow keys
simultaneously for at least 2 seconds. The solenoid valve of the power source will open for 30 seconds, all control panel indicators will light up, and "GAS" will be displayed on the 7-segment display. To end the gas test before the 30 seconds elapse, press the right arrow key
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Adjust the gas flow rate using the adjustment screw on the pressure regulator.
You now know how to set the gas flow rate. If you would also like to learn about the suitable shielding gas types in advance, feel free to visit our article Which Shielding Gas for Which Welding Process?
Detailed information on operation and further instructions for handling RED devices can be found in the respective user manual for your welding machine.