SH-5 as welding gas
SH-5 is a mixture of argon and hydrogen with a hydrogen content of 5%. The gas is specifically designed for TIG and plasma arc welding where additional arc energy, better penetration and a cleaner weld are required. The addition of hydrogen stabilises the arc, raises its temperature and improves mass transfer, reducing weld deformation. The gas is particularly suitable for welding thin austenitic stainless and acid-resistant steels and for root protection.

SH-5 is best suited for mechanised and automated welding, where the additional energy provided by hydrogen allows for a faster and more efficient process. They can also be used for manual welding, but the higher hydrogen content makes the gases unsuitable for welding ferritic, martensitic or low-alloy steels, as the risk of hydrogen embrittlement increases significantly.

Compared to SH-2 gas (2% hydrogen), SH-3 and SH-5 contain more hydrogen, which increases arc energy and efficiency, but requires more careful material selection and process control. The lower hydrogen content of SH-2, on the other hand, makes it a safer alternative for manual welding and reduces the risk of hydrogen embrittlement.

Available grades:
Industrial SH-5

Packaging:
SH-5 gas is available in cylinders.

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 fire and explosion
SH-5 gas is a mixture of hydrogen and argon. Hydrogen is a highly flammable gas that burns hot with an almost invisible flame. A small amount of energy is required to ignite the hydrogen air mixture. Hydrogen under pressure may ignite when discharged without an obvious ignition source, e.g. static electricity or a hot surface. A hydrogen fire is always extinguished by shutting off the gas flow into the fire bag. Other extinguishing methods are dangerous because leaking hydrogen can easily re-ignite and the resulting gas cloud can create an explosion hazard. Fire propagation

cool the area around the burning area with water if you can do so safely.

Risk of suffocation
An increase in the concentration of SH-5 gas in the air you breathe poses a risk of asphyxiation. Low concentrations may cause increased respiratory rate and headache. Asphyxiation occurs unnoticed and can be fatal. As the air becomes heavier, it may accumulate in drains and basements and cause elevated concentrations of SH-5 gas 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.

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