Argon has numerous applications, particularly in industry, where protection and stability are required. Its chemical inertness makes it an excellent shielding gas for processes where oxidation, moisture or other undesirable reactions need to be prevented.

As a heavier gas than air, argon effectively displaces oxygen and moisture. This property is exploited in the food industry, especially in packaging. For example, argon is used in the packaging of coffee beans and wine, where it improves shelf life by reducing oxidation.

Argon’s low thermal conductivity also makes it an effective insulating gas. It is used between double-glazed windows to improve thermal insulation and reduce energy consumption. In addition, argon protects sensitive chemicals and samples in storage tanks and pipelines where a clean, unreacted gas is needed. Its ability to ionise in an electrical discharge also allows its use in lighting applications such as fluorescent tubes and special lamps.

Argon is commonly used for TIG welding of all metals and MIG welding of aluminium and copper. Its advantages include an inert process atmosphere, good flammability (low ionisation energy), reasonable cost and wide applicability to a variety of materials.

Because argon is heavier than air, it is well suited for root protection, plasma arc cutting and welding. It is used in applications such as steel and metal working.

However, argon alone is not suitable for MIG welding of steels, as it does not form an oxide layer on the surface of the molten metal that focuses the arc. Therefore, in gas arc welding, argon is supplemented with an active component, such as carbon dioxide, to stabilise the welding process and improve weld quality.

Available grades:
Industrial argon, high purity argon N50 (5.0) and N60 (6.0).

Packaging:
Argon is available in cylinders, AwoPlus cylinders, AWOCYL replacement cylinders, cylinder batteries and mini-containers.

Gases behave differently depending on their quality and state. Always consult the product’s safety data sheet before using the product. A safety data sheet is a document that conveys information about the properties, risks and safe use of a substance or mixture for industrial or professional use.

Risk of suffocation
An increase in the concentration of argon in the air you breathe poses a risk of suffocation. Asphyxiation occurs unnoticed and can be fatal. Vaporised argon is very cold. When vaporised, it is heavier than air and can accumulate in drains and basements, causing an increase in the argon concentration in the premises.

First aid
The person suffering from oxygen deprivation must be taken to fresh air immediately. If the victim is having difficulty breathing or is not breathing, administer artificial respiration as quickly as possible and call for help. When rescuing a victim, it is important to remember not to enter an oxygen-deprived area without breathing equipment.

Frostbite
Liquid argon and its vapours are very cold and cause frostbite on the skin. Contact with bare skin on non-insulated parts of the equipment may cause the skin to catch and tear. In the event of an accident, rinse the heavily damaged areas with lukewarm water and seek medical attention.

Unsuitable materials
Certain steels are unsuitable for use at low temperatures because they become brittle and lose their resistance to impact. Materials normally suitable for use at low temperatures are stainless steel, aluminium and their alloys.

Use of gas cylinders

Transport of gas cylinders

Storage of gas cylinders