C02 flow controls.

[J_J]

Are the flow control gages the same for 80/20 welding gases, and CO2.

How about pressure settings, is it the same.

 

[Mark @ Everlast]

Yes, and no.

Some regulators have multiple scales on the same regulator for different gases. Some only have a scale for one particular gas. But as far as adjusting and regulating goes, you would still adjust the same even if it didn't have the same scale. Setting the unit for correct coverage of gas doesn't have to depend on where the ball is floating.

 

[J_J]

How about the change over, say a flow meter on the CO2 tank switched over to a Stargon tank? Are any adapters required? Does the flow from each tank give the same density at the weld with the same pressure or liters per minute. Otherwise, are you depositing the same amount or correct amount of gas to the weld?

 

[Mark @ Everlast]

All these bottles typically carry the same thread. Again, it depends upon your flow meter. If it doesn't have separate scales for the different gases, then it may not be accurate. Different density gases do have different calibrations for the flow rate. ArgonHelium for example has a different calibration. They are similar but not 1 for 1. The flow rate will be different for the same setting. So you will have to compensate by the appearance of your weld. Flow rate and density are different critters. Argon Helium requires a higher flow (even with a compensated scale) to get the same shielding at the weld. It depends on whether the gas is rises, sinks or is neutral in the atmosphere, or what the individual component blends do overall.

 

[lostcause]

as far as i know the gauges for the inert welding gases (co2, ar, ar/co2) i have used are the same. i've never used helium, or a helium combination gas, but i think that the regulators are the same for them too. without making me put my pants on and walk through the snow to the garage i have to work from memory, but i think that all three i have are preset at 50psi and you adjust the flow in gallons/liters per hour.

 

[J_J]

I found some additional data on the tanks and valves. CGA 580. The standard fitting for the tanks meets CGA specs. The CGA stands for Compressed Gas Association. Apparently some regualtors have multiple guide numbers on the clear flow tube. So the gages can be switched between tanks.

Here is a chart with thread sizes.

http://mfc.engr.arizona.edu/documents/CGA Fittings Spec.pdf

Here is a list of adapters.

 

[Chilly807]

On some of the Miller regulators , made by Smith, they call for a different orifice (.032) to be used with argon. I assume the standard regulator orifice is designed for use with CO2?

Sean

 

[Willl]

My bottle fittings are different from the CO2 to the AR/CO2.

The CO2 has external threads and the AR/CO2 has internal.

I use the same regulator via adapter.

 

[yomax4]

Argon CGA is 580., I believe CO2 is 320. There is an adaptor or you can buy a Part Number CO2 and CO3 from Western or Superior and switch out the nut and nipple each time you change. Also if you are unsure of the ball setting. You can keep turning it down until you get porrosity then bump it up a little. You really don't need 30cfh to weld. Turn it down and save some gas.

 

[J_J]

I believe you have to use an adapter if you put an Argon, or Argon/CO2, 80/20 regulator on a CO2 tank.

I learn new stuff everyday. Thanks to all.