Helium N46

Helium N46 (≥ 99.996% purity) is a light, inert noble gas used as a shielding gas in welding and laser processes, as a carrier gas in analytical applications and as a coolant in cryogenic applications.

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Safety Data Sheet

Helium N46 is a very pure (≥ 99.996%) colourless, odourless, non-toxic and inert noble gas. It is significantly lighter than air and the second lightest of all gases. Helium is the second most abundant element in the universe after hydrogen, and its chemical inertness makes it a safe and versatile gas for industrial and research purposes.

Helium’s chemical symbol: He
Helium UN number: 1046, helium, compressed
Valve: DIN 477 No. 10
Density of helium: 0,18 kg/m3
Relative density of helium: 0,14 (air=1)
Boiling point of helium at 0,101 MPa: -268,9 °C
Reactivity of helium in welding: Inert

Helium N46 as welding gas
Helium acts as an inert shielding gas for TIG and MIG welding and laser cutting. Its high ionisation energy and excellent thermal conductivity allow higher welding speeds and deeper penetration compared to, for example, argon. It is often used in a mixture with argon, especially for welding thick materials.

Analysis and research
Helium’s chemical inertness and high purity make it an excellent choice for gas chromatography and other analytical applications where a non-disturbing carrier gas is required.

Risk of suffocation
An increase in the helium concentration in the breathing air poses a risk of suffocation. Do not inhale helium, even a few breaths can cause a risk of suffocation. Asphyxiation occurs unnoticed and can be fatal. Vaporised helium is very cold. Cold helium vapours are heavier than air and can accumulate in drains and basements, causing elevated helium levels in rooms.

First aid
A person suffering from oxygen deficiency should be immediately evacuated to fresh air. 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 injuries
Liquid helium and its vapours are extremely cold and cause frostbite to the skin. Touching uninsulated parts of the equipment with bare skin 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

Follow the instructions and safe working practices when handling the substance.
The gas handler must have appropriate training
Use only carefully checked pressure regulators and other operating equipment suitable for this gas. If in doubt, contact Woikoske.
Open the valve slowly, to avoid a pressure shock
The valve is opened and closed by hand. The use of assistive devices is prohibited!
It takes about one turn to open the bottle.
The gas cylinder in use must be properly secured
Keep the valve outlets clean!
Close the bottle valve after each use and when the bottle is empty.
Always report a damaged valve and bottle to Woikoske

Transport

The driver must be aware of the potential dangers of the load and know his duties in the event of accidents and incidents.
Cylinders should be transported in an upright position
The load must be secured
Bottles must not be knocked, thrown or dropped from the platform of the car
Attention to ADR regulations in transport

Storage

Comply with all legal and local requirements for cylinder storage
Store bottles in a well-ventilated place
Gas cylinders should not be stored in conditions that promote corrosion
Gas cylinders are stored upright and secured so that they cannot fall over.
The valve guard must be in place ALWAYS
Keep empty and full bottles separate

Helium N46

Helium N46

Helium N46 gas properties

What is helium N46 gas used for?

Woikoski helium N46 products

Helium N46 Safety Data Sheet

Safe use of helium N46