Which gas can be used as a shielding gas for GMAW?

In Gas Metal Arc Welding (GMAW), the choice of shielding gas is crucial for achieving high-quality welds. Carbon dioxide is an effective shielding gas for GMAW because it enhances heat input and improves the penetration of the weld. It also has a lower cost compared to other gases and provides good arc stability.

While carbon dioxide does not provide the same level of inertness as argon or helium, it can be mixed with other gases to further improve welding characteristics and is particularly beneficial when welding on thicker materials. The addition of CO2 helps in stabilizing the arc and provides a more forgiving process, making it a popular choice for many welding applications.

Other gases mentioned, such as hydrogen, argon-oxygen mixes, and helium, can serve different purposes in welding but are not typically used in the same manner as carbon dioxide in GMAW. Hydrogen is commonly used in specific applications like welding high-strength steels but can induce brittleness. Argon is often used for more inert applications or in mixtures to improve performance, but an argon-oxygen mix would not be ideal for GMAW as it may cause oxidation. Helium, while useful, is usually employed for specific types of welding that benefit from its high heat transfer