When embarking on a TIG welding project with mild steel, one of the most fundamental and critical choices you’ll make is selecting the correct shielding gas. Unlike MIG welding, where gas mixtures like C02/Argon are common, the world of TIG welding operates on a principle of purity and stability. For TIG welding mild steel, the universal and unequivocal choice is 100% Pure Argon.
This inert gas serves as a protective blanket, shielding the molten weld pool and the non-consumable tungsten electrode from reactive elements in the atmosphere like oxygen and nitrogen, which can cause porosity, brittleness, and a poor weld appearance.
The reason argon is the sole recommended gas lies in the very nature of the TIG process. The tungsten electrode is extremely sensitive to contamination. Introducing active gases like carbon dioxide (C02) or oxygen—common in MIG mixes—would rapidly erode and degrade the sharpened tungsten tip, leading to arc instability, tungsten inclusions in the weld, and an uncontrollable, dirty arc.
Pure argon, being an inert gas, creates a stable and concentrated arc cone, allowing for superior control over the weld puddle and facilitating the clean, precise, and high-quality welds that TIG is renowned for.
While other gases like helium can be added to argon for specific applications (primarily to increase heat input and travel speed on very thick materials), these are specialized exceptions. For the vast majority of mild steel TIG welding applications, from auto body repair to custom fabrication, simplicity and purity win. This guide will delve into the essential role of gas for TIG welding mild steel, explaining why 100% argon is non-negotiable and how to optimize its use for flawless results.
Our Top 5 Gas For Tig Welding Mild Steel Recommendations at a Glance
Top 5 Gas For Tig Welding Mild Steel Detailed Reviews
1. TOOLIOM Mild Steel TIG Welding Rod ER70S-6 TIG Filler Rod 3/32″ x 16″ 5LB Welding Wire
Rating: 8.7/10
The TOOLIOM Mild Steel TIG Welding Rod ER70S-6 is a copper-coated welding wire designed for TIG welding. It works well with different shielding gases, like argon and CO2 mixed gas, or just 100% CO2. This rod is a good choice for many welding projects. It comes in a convenient size: 3/32 inch in diameter and 16 inches long. You get a big 5-pound pack, which is great for lots of work.
What We Like:
- It handles high welding currents really well.
- The arc stays steady, and there’s less spatter.
- It’s perfect for welding mild steel and low alloy steel.
- You can use it for many things, like building cars, ships, and bridges.
- The 5-pound pack comes in a tough plastic case to keep it safe.
What Could Be Improved:
- For beginners, the 3/32 inch size might be a little tricky at first.
- More detailed instructions on specific gas mixtures for different steel types would be helpful.
This TOOLIOM welding rod is a solid performer for both general and specific steel welding tasks. Its reliability and the generous quantity make it a valuable addition to any welder’s toolkit.
2. WISUNO Mild Steel TIG Welding Rods
The WISUNO Mild Steel TIG Welding Rods, ER70S-6 TIG Filler Rod 1/16″x17″ 1LB Welding Wire is a great tool for anyone who welds. It’s made for steel and helps you make strong connections.
What We Like:
- Easy to start the welding arc.
- The arc is very steady.
- It makes nice-looking welds.
- Slag is easy to remove after welding.
- There’s very little spatter (small metal drops that fly off).
- Works well in all positions (flat, vertical, overhead).
- Good for low temperatures.
- The copper coating helps it feed smoothly and stops rust.
- It’s good for many jobs, like on ships, cars, and buildings.
What Could Be Improved:
- The specific packaging size might not be ideal for every user.
- Availability can sometimes be limited.
This welding wire is a solid choice for making strong welds. It helps both new and experienced welders get great results.
3. WeldingCity 5-Lb Mild Steel ER70S-6 TIG Welding Rods 1/16″x36″
Rating: 8.7/10
The WeldingCity 5-Lb Mild Steel ER70S-6 TIG Welding Rods are a great choice for anyone working with mild steel. These rods are made with high-quality ER70S-6 mild steel alloy and are copper-coated for better performance. They come in a 5-pound package and are 36 inches long, with a 1/16-inch diameter. These rods meet strict industry standards, so you can trust their quality. They are designed for TIG welding, also known as GTAW, and work well with Argon/CO2 shielding gas.
What We Like:
- These rods are made from premium quality ER70S-6 mild steel alloy.
- They are copper-coated, which helps with welding.
- The higher manganese and silicon content makes them great for welding dirty, oily, or rusty steel.
- They offer better wetting and a smoother bead appearance.
- These rods are suitable for repairs, pipe welding, and sheet metal work.
- WeldingCity provides strong technical support and experienced customer service.
What Could Be Improved:
- The available diameters might not cover every specific need.
- While good for general purposes, highly specialized welding might require different rod types.
These WeldingCity TIG welding rods are a reliable option for a variety of mild steel projects. They offer good performance and support from a US-based supplier.
4. YESWELDER Mild Steel TIG Welding Rod ER70S-6 1/16″x16″ 5LB
Rating: 8.7/10
The YESWELDER Mild Steel TIG Welding Rod ER70S-6 is a fantastic choice for anyone working with mild steel. These copper-coated rods are designed to make your welding jobs smoother and cleaner. They work great with different shielding gases, giving you flexibility for various projects.
What We Like:
- These rods have high levels of manganese and silicon. This helps them handle higher welding currents.
- They produce a smooth weld bead. This means less cleaning after you finish welding.
- They work well with 100% CO2 shielding gas. This is a common and affordable option.
- Using more argon in the shielding gas makes the weld bead look even smoother. It also creates less spatter.
- These rods are suitable for many types of mild and low alloy steel.
- They are great for construction and farm equipment. You can also use them for tanks, truck bodies, and general shop work.
- They are forgiving with poor fit-up. This means they can handle rusty or oily plates well.
- The rods come in different diameters: 1/16″, 3/32″, and 1/8″.
- Each box contains 5 pounds of rods.
What Could Be Improved:
- The product description mentions two kinds of packaging. While the contents are the same, it might be confusing for some buyers.
Overall, these YESWELDER TIG welding rods are a reliable and effective tool for a wide range of welding tasks. They offer excellent performance and make the welding process more efficient.
5. Blulu Tig Welding Rod ER70S-6 Mild Steel Tig Filler Rod Carbon Steel Welding Accessories 2lb(3/32″ x 16″)
Rating: 9.1/10
The Blulu Tig Welding Rod ER70S-6 Mild Steel Tig Filler Rod is a handy tool for anyone working with carbon steel. This pack gives you 2 pounds of welding rods, which is plenty for many projects. They are made from strong mild steel, so you can trust them to do a good job. These rods are easy to use and leave your welds looking clean.
What We Like:
- Plenty of rods in the package, so you won’t run out quickly.
- The size is just right for many welding machines.
- Made from reliable ER70S-6 mild steel, which is strong and safe.
- They make welding low carbon and low alloy steel simple.
- The welds come out smooth, so you don’t need to do much extra cleaning.
- Great for many jobs like construction, trucks, and ships.
What Could Be Improved:
- It’s important to double-check the size before you buy to make sure it fits your needs.
Overall, these Blulu Tig welding rods are a solid choice for your welding projects. They offer good quality and versatility for many different applications.
Choosing the Right Gas for TIG Welding Mild Steel
TIG (Tungsten Inert Gas) welding is a fantastic way to join metal. It gives you a lot of control. You can make neat, strong welds. But to get the best results when welding mild steel, you need the right gas. This guide will help you pick the perfect gas.
Key Features to Look For in Your Welding Gas
When you buy gas for TIG welding mild steel, think about these important things:
- Purity: You want a gas that is very pure. Impurities can mess up your weld. They can make it weak or look bad.
- Inertness: TIG welding uses inert gas. This means the gas doesn’t react with the metal you’re welding. It protects the weld pool from air.
- Flow Rate: You need to control how much gas comes out. Too little gas leaves your weld unprotected. Too much gas wastes money and can blow away your shielding.
Important Materials: What Your Gas is Made Of
The most common gases for TIG welding mild steel are:
- Pure Argon: This is the most popular choice. Argon is a noble gas. It’s completely inert. It works well for almost all TIG welding on mild steel. It gives you a clean, stable arc. It also helps melt the metal nicely.
- Argon/Helium Mixes: Sometimes, welders use a mix of argon and helium. Helium makes the arc hotter. This can help you weld thicker mild steel faster. It can also give you a wider, flatter bead. However, helium is more expensive than argon.
You’ll also see other gases mentioned. For mild steel TIG welding, pure argon is usually the best bet. Stick with what works.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Weld Quality
Many things affect how good your TIG welds look and how strong they are.
- Gas Purity: High-purity gas is key. Even small amounts of other gases can cause problems. This includes oxygen or moisture. These can make your weld brittle or cause porosity (tiny holes).
- Gas Flow Rate: Setting the right flow rate is important. A good flow rate protects your weld from the air. It also prevents the gas from blowing away your tungsten electrode.
- Shielding Gas Coverage: Make sure the gas covers your weld puddle well. Wind or drafts can blow the shielding gas away. This leaves your weld open to the air. You might need a windbreak.
- Gas Cylinder Age and Condition: Old or dirty gas cylinders can add impurities. Always use fresh, clean gas.
User Experience and Use Cases
Most people find pure argon easy to use for mild steel. It’s forgiving. It works on thin and thick materials.
- Hobbyists and DIYers: Pure argon is perfect for home projects. You can weld car parts, gates, or furniture. It’s easy to get and use.
- Professional Welders: Many professionals use pure argon for everyday mild steel work. They might switch to an argon/helium mix for specific jobs, like welding thicker plates or when they need to speed things up.
- Thin Metal: Pure argon is great for thin mild steel. It gives you good control. You can avoid burning through.
- Thicker Metal: While pure argon works, an argon/helium mix might be better for very thick mild steel. The extra heat from helium helps you melt through faster.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About Gas for TIG Welding Mild Steel
Q: What is the best gas for TIG welding mild steel?
A: The best gas for TIG welding mild steel is usually pure argon. It’s reliable and gives great results.
Q: Can I use just any gas for TIG welding?
A: No, you must use an inert gas. Gases like oxygen or carbon dioxide will ruin your weld.
Q: How much gas should I use?
A: The right amount is called the flow rate. It’s usually between 10-25 cubic feet per hour (CFH). Check your welding machine’s manual.
Q: Does the type of gas affect the weld color?
A: Yes, pure argon usually gives a clean, silvery weld. Other gases might cause discoloration.
Q: What if my weld looks bubbly or has holes?
A: This is likely porosity. It can happen if your gas flow is too low or if there’s wind blowing the gas away.
Q: Is argon expensive?
A: Pure argon is very affordable. Argon/helium mixes cost more.
Q: Can I use a gas mix with carbon dioxide for TIG welding mild steel?
A: No, carbon dioxide is not inert. It should not be used for TIG welding mild steel.
Q: How do I know if my gas is pure enough?
A: Buy gas from a reputable supplier. They will provide high-purity gases.
Q: What is the difference between TIG and MIG welding gas?
A: MIG welding often uses gas mixes with CO2 or oxygen for mild steel. TIG welding requires pure inert gases like argon.
Q: Will a higher flow rate always make a better weld?
A: No, too much gas can actually cause problems. It can create turbulence and blow away your shielding.
In conclusion, every product has unique features and benefits. We hope this review helps you decide if it meets your needs. An informed choice ensures the best experience.
If you have any questions or feedback, please share them in the comments. Your input helps everyone. Thank you for reading.
I’m Darrell Julian, the founder, lead writer, and hands-on welding enthusiast behind ArcWeldingPro.com. With more than 15 years of real-world welding experience, I created this platform to share what I’ve learned in the field, in the shop, and in the heat of the arc.
