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STD. AWS AS.32-ENGL 1997 MM O7a4@bS OS0s%de Te? a ANSV/AWS A5.32/A5.32M-97 An American National Standard Specification fo Welding Shielding Gases Se RS ay STD-AUS AS.32-ENGL 1997 MM 0784265 0508903 93 am Key Words — Argon. carbon dioxide, helium, ANSI/AWS A5.32/A5.32M-97 bydtogen, nitrogen, oxygen, ‘An American National Standard shielding gases, welding gases Approved by American National Standards Institute December 8, 1997 Sper in for Welding Shielding Gases Prepared by AWS Committee on Filler Metals ‘Under the Direction of AWS Technical Activities Committee Approved by AWS Board of Directors Abstract This specication for welding shielding gases specifies minimum requirements for the composition and purity of the ‘most popular single-component shielding gases. Classification designators for both single and multicomponent pases are introduced, Other topics include testing procedures, package marking, and general application guidelines. This specification makes use of both U.S. Customary Units and the International System of Units (SD. Since these are ‘ot equivalent, each system must be used independently ofthe other. American Welding Society 550. NW. LeJeune Road, Miami, Florida 33126 Copia by the American Nellg Soci Sup Jal O5 121-24 1995 STD-AUS AS.32-ENGL 2997 M™ O7E42b5 0508904 BTT mm Statement on Use of AWS Standards All standards (codes, specifications, recommended practices, methods, classifications, and guides) of the American ‘Welding Society are voluntary consensus standards that have been developed in accordance with the rules of the Ameri- can National Standards Insitute. When AWS standards are either incorporated in, or made part of, documents that are included in federal or state laws and regulations, or the regulations of other governmental bodies, their provisions carry the full legal authority ofthe statute. In such eases, any changes in those AWS standards must be approved by the gov- ‘emmental body having statutory jurisdiction before they can become a part of those laws and regulations. In all eases, these standards carry the full legal authority of the contrat or other document that invokes the AWS standards, Where this contractual relationship exists, changes in or deviations from requirements of an AWS standard must be by agree ‘ment between the contracting parties, International Standard Book Number: 0-87171-523-6 ‘American Welding Society, 550 N.W. LeJeune Road, Miami, FL 33126 © 1998 by American Welding Society. All rights reserved Printed in the United States of America Note: The primary purpose of AWS is to serve and benefit its members. To this end, AWS provides a forum for the ex- change, consideration, and discussion of ideas and proposals that are relevant to the welding industry and the consensus cof which forms the basis for these standards. By providing such a forum, AWS does not assume any duties to which @ user ofthese standards may be required to adhere. By publishing this standard, the American Welding Society does not insure anyone using the information it contains against any liability arising from that use. Publication of a standard by the American Welding Society does not carry with it any right to make, use, or sell any patented items. Users of the in formation inthis standard should make an independent, substantiating investigation ofthe validity ofthat information {for their particular use and the patent stats of any item referred to herein With regard to technical inquiries made concerning AWS standards, oral opinions on AWS standards may be rendered. However, such opinions represent only the personal opinions of the particular individuals giving them. These individuals 4o not speak on behalf of AWS, nor do these oral opinions constitute official or unofficial opinions of interpretations of AWS. In addition, oral opinions are informal and should not be used as a substitute for an official interpretation. ‘This standard is subject to revision at any time by the AWS Committee on Filler Metals, It must be reviewed every five _years and if not revised, it must be either reapproved or withdrawn. Comments (recommendations, additions, or dele- tions) and any pertinent data that may be of use in improving this standard are requested and should be addressed to AWS Headquarters. Such comments will receive careful consideration by the AWS Committee on Filler Metals and the Author of the comments will be informed of the Committee's response to the comments. Guests are invited to attend all ‘meetings of the AWS Committee on Filler Metals to express their comments verbally, Procedutes for appeal of an ad- verse decision conceming all such comments are provided in the Rules of Operation of the Technical Activities Commit- tee. A copy of these Rules can be obtained from the American Welding Society, $50 N.W. LeJeune Road, Miami, FL 33126, Photocopy Rights Authorization to photocopy items for intemal, personal, or educational classroom use only, of the internal, personal, or ‘educational classroom use only of specific clients, is granted by the American Welding Society (AWS) provided thatthe appropriate fee is paid to the Copyright Clearance Center, 222 Rosewood Drive, Danvers, MA 01923; Tel: 508-750- 18400; online: htp:\www.copyright.com Copia by the American Nellg Soci Sup Jal O5 121-24 1995 STD-AUS AS.32-ENGL 1997 MM O7842b5 0508905 236 Ml Personnel AWS Committee on Filler Metals RA, Lakave, Chair J.P Hunt, Is Vice Chair D.A. Fink, 2nd Vice Chair HM. Woodward, Secretary RL Bateman RS. Brown RA. Bushey J. Capraro, Jr *L, J. Christensen RJ. Christoffel D.J. Crement D.D. Crockert RA, Daemen D.A.DelSignore RL, Drury H.W. Ebert 1.G. Feldstein S. E. Ferree L Flasche CE. Fuerstenau G.A. Hallstrom. Jr WS. Howes RB. Kadiyala D. J. Kotecki DY Ku 1. E Larson A.S. Laurenson JS. Lee G.H, MacShane WA. Martila R Menon M.T. Merlo AR Mertes M.D. Morin CL Null Jd. Payne RL Peaslee EW. Pickering, Jr M.A, Quintana HF. Reld *S. D. Reynolds, Jr LF Roberts PK Salvesen JM. Savill, Jr Asner Copia by the American Nellg Soci Sup Jal O5 121-24 1995 Elliott Turbomachinery Company Inco Alloys Intemational, Incorporated ‘The Lincoln Electric Company ‘American Welding Society Electromanufacturas, S.A. Carpenter Technology Corporation ESAB Welding and Cutting Products Consultant Consultant ‘Consultant Precision Components Corporation ‘The Lincoln Electric Company Consultant Consultant Caterpillar, Incorporated Exxon Research and Engineering Company Foster Wheeler Energy International, Corporation ESAB Welding and Cutting Products Haynes International, Incorporated Alloy Ring Service Hallstrom Consultants [ational Electrical Manufacturers Association ‘Techalloy Company ‘The Lincoln Electric Company ‘American Bureau of Shipping ‘Compressed Gas Industries Consultant (Chicago Bridge and Iron Company, Incorporated MAC Associates Chrysler Corporation ‘Stoody Company Select Arc, Incorporated ‘Ampeo Metal, Incorporated ABB Power Generation Naval Sea Systems Command Sverdrup Technology, Incorporated Wall Colimonoy Corporation Consultant ‘The Lincoln Electric Company Consultant Consultant Canadian Welding Bureau Det Norske Veritas (DNV) Newport News Shipbuilding STD-AUS AS.32-ENGL 1997 MM O7842bS OSO890b b72 AWS Committee on Filler Metals (continued) ALP Seidler Armco Steet W.S. Severance ESAB Welding and Cutting Products *W.A.Shopp Consultant M.S. Siendzinski SAB Welding and Cuting Products| *R.G. Sim Lincoln Electric Company (Australia) E.R. Stevens Fisher Controls International, Incorporated *R.W.Srraiton Bechtel Corporation KA, Sulit’ Sulit Engineering R.A. Swain Buroweld, Limited RD. Thomas, Jr. —_-R.D. Thomas and Company K.P. Thomberry J. W. Harris Company, Incorporated, *R.Timerman — Conarco, S.A. S. Toursumi Kobe Steel Limited —Welding Division LT Vernam —AleoTec Wire Company GJ. Vetanovych Mobil Technology Company T.R. Warren Ingalls Shipbuilding, Incorporated HD. Weir Arcos Alloys SEI. Winsor Consultant K.G. Wold Siemens Power Corporation AWS Subcommittee on Shielding Gases N.E. Larson, Chair Compressed Gas Industries HM, Woodward, Secretary American Welding Society J.DeVito_ ESAB Welding and Cutting Products JR Donaghy Praxair, Incorporated JR. Evans Walker Manufacturing Company LR. Pate Aitco/BOC SER Pierre Consulta J.B. Ridenfeldi AGA Gas, Incorporaied G.A.Risher Consultant D. Sullivan BOC Gases "RD. Thomas, JR. D. Thomas and Company Advisor Copia by the American Nellg Soci Sup Jal O5 121-24 1995 STD-AUS AS.32-ENGL 1997 MM 0764255 9508907 S09 am Foreword (This Foreword is not a part of ANSVAWS A5.32/A5.32M.97, Specification for Welding Shielding Gases, but is in- cluded for information purposes only.) ‘This is a new issue ofa specification that has been discussed and drafted many times over the las ten years. Thanks to the persevering efforts of Chair Nils Larson and the rest of the Subcommittee on Shielding Gases, the new ANSUAWS AS.32/A5.32M, Specification for Welding Shielding Gases, is now a reslity. The simplicity of its classfiea- tion system is readily apparent, The requirements are clear and concise and reflect the safest and most economical prod- tet for the application. This document makes use of both U.S. Customary Units and the International System of Units (SI), The measure- ments are not exact equivalents: therefore, each system must be used independently of the other, without combining val- ues in any way. In selecting rational metric units, ANSUAWS AIL1, Metric Practice Guide for the Welding Industry, is used where suitable, Tables and figures make use of both U.S. Customary and SI units, which with the application of the specified tolerances provide for interchangeability of products in both the U.S, Customary and SI Units Official interpretations of any of the technical requirements ofthis standard may be obtained by sending a request, in writing, to the Managing Director, Technical Services Division, American Welding Society. A formal reply will be is- sued alter it has been reviewed by the appropriate personnel following established procedures, ‘This is the first publication ofthis document Copia by the American Nellg Soci Sup Jal O5 121-24 1995 STD-AWS AS-32-ENGL 1997 MM 0784265 OS06906 44S a Table of Contents Page No. Personnel, iit Foreword v List of Tables = a sone List of Figures wi 1. Scope. Part A—General Requirements Normative References. Classification. Acceptance... Certification ‘Units of Measure and Rounding-Off Procedure Part B—Tests, Procedures, and Requirements 7. Summary of Tests 8. Reteste nn 9. Chemical Analysis 10. Dew Point Determination, Part C—Manufacture, Packaging, and Identification 11. Method of Manufacture 12, Packaging 13, Tdentification 14, Marking of High-Pressure Cylinders, Liquid Containers, and Bulk Vessels. Annex—Guide 10 AWS Specification for Welding Shielding Gases Al, Introdyetioa, A2. Classification System... A3, Acceptance, Aa. Cenification : a AS. Ventilation During Welding. 7 A6. Welding Considerations. AT. Description and Imended Use of the Shing Gases A. General Safety Considerations ‘AQ. Safety References AWS Filler Metal Specifications by Material and Welding Process AWS Filler Metal Specifications and Related Documents Copia by the American Nellg Soci Sup Jal O5 121-24 1995 Table pane Figure STD-AUS AS-32-ENGL 1997 MM O784265 0508905 351 mo List of Tables Gas Type, Py, and De Pon Regrets or Shielding Gas Components ‘Tests Required for Classification. o Dew Point Conversion Chart AWS Classifications for Typical Gas Mixtures ‘Additional Information ma List of Figures Classification System for a Single Gas. Classification System for Multicomponent Shielding Gases. Classification System for Special Multicomponent Shielding Gases. Classification System for “X" Designator Shielding Gases Copia by the American Nellg Soci Sup Jal O5 121-24 1995 Page No. STD-AUS AS-32-ENGL 1997 MM 0764265 0508920 O73 mm Specification for Welding Shielding Gases 1, Scope ‘This specification prescribes requirements for the classification of shielding gases. Gases may be supplied {in either gaseous of liquid form, but when used in weld- ing, the shielding is always in the gaseous form. Gas shielded are welding processes include, but are not lim- ited to; manual, semiautomatic, mechanized, and auto- ‘matic gas tungsten are welding (GTAW), gas metal arc welding (GMAW), flux cored arc welding (FCAW), electrogas welding (EGW), and plasma are welding (PAW). Part A General Requirements 2. Normative References 2.1 ASTM Standards! E29, Standard Practice for Using Significant Digits in Test Data to Determine Conformance with Specifications 260, Standard Practice for Packed Column Gas Chromatography 22 CGA Publications? G-43, Commodity Specification for Oxygen G53, Commodity Specification for Hydrogen 6-6.2, Commodity Specification for Carbon Dioxide 1 ASTM standards can be obtained from ASTM, 100 Barr Harbor Drive, West Conshohocken, PA 19428-2959, 2. CGA publications can be obtained from Compressed Gas “Association, In, 1725 Fefferson Davis Highway, Suite 1004, ‘Adlington, VA 22202-4102. Cony by te Arion lla Soy he ‘Sum dal 05 11:21:24 1998 a See G-9.1, Commodity Specification for Helium G-10.1, Commodity Specification for Nitrogen G-11.1, Commodity Specification for Argon PLS, Filling of Industrial and Medical Nonflammable Compressed Gas Cylinders 3. Classification 3.1 The shielding gases covered by the AS.32/A5.32M specification are classified using. a system that is inde- pendent of U.S. Customary Units and the International System of Units (SI). Classification is according to chemical composition of the shielding gas as specified in 1B. 3.2 Gases classified under one classification shall not be Classified under any other classification in this specifica- tion, Individual gases shall meet or exceed the require ‘ments of Table 3.3 The gases classified under this specification are in tended for use with the gas shielded are welding pro- cesses listed in the Seope. This does not prohibit their use with any other process for which they are found suitable 4, Acceptance Acceptance’ ofthe gases by the user shall bein accor: ‘dunce with the tests and requirements of Parts B and C of this specification, 4, See Section 43 fn the Annex) for wore information STD-AUS AS-32-ENGL 2997 MM 0784265 OSO851 737 Mi 2 Table 4 Gas Type, Purity, and Dew Point Requirements for Shielding Gas Components Dew Point Maximam Moisture Minimum Maximum at 1 Atmosphere AWS Product "Pity" Moiatre™ Gas Chsificaion Sue) vm) * CGA Class Gas 9.97 105 16 #0 1G. Grade C ‘Argon SGA - ae Tiguia 39.997 10376 Dp GAL Gree Gas 8 3 ce 6-62 Grade Ht Carbon Dioxide SGC Liquid 398 ee (6-62 Grade H Ges 99.985 “A -S7__typel GDA Gade Helium SGHe Liquid ee) 137 Type GA Gade Gas 99.98 2 “0 -Si__Tyel__G53GnaeB Hydrogen Son oonee Lieut 98.985 2 ~6 51 Type G5.3Gade A Gas 389 “6 S1__sypel G10 Grade P Nitrogen SGN ~ ae Liguia 39.988 4 0-68 Tell G10 Grade Gas 995 NocApplicable Sta 1 G43GradeB oxygen $6.0 2 = Liquid 33 NotApplicable 82 —-63_—“‘Typell~—G-43GradeB News a Moistre specifications are gusracted at fll ender pressure, a which be clei analyzed Inching non Inching elm, 5. Certification By affixing the AWS specification and classification {designations on the packaging enclosing the produ: supplier (manufacturer) certifies thatthe product meets all ofthe requirements ofthe specification * 6. Units of Measure and Rounding-Off Procedure 6.1 This specification uses U.S. Customary Units and the SSI Units. The measurements are not exact equivalents; therefore each system must be used independently of the other without combining values in any way. The specifi cation with the designation of AS.32 uses the U.S, Cus- tomary Units. The specification with the designation of ‘A5.32M uses SI Units. The later are shown in appropriate columns in tables and in figures, and within brackets { ] ‘when used inthe text. 4 See Section AS (in the Annex) for further information con- ‘ceming certification and the testing called for to mect this requirement. Copia by the American Nellg Soci Sup Jal O5 121-24 1995 6.2 For the purpose of determining conformance with this specification, values shall be rounded to the nearest unit in accordance with the rounding-off method given ASTM E29, Standard Practice for Using Significant Digits in Test Data to Determine Conformance with Specifications. Part B Tests, Procedures, and Requirements . Summary of Tests Compositional analysis of the shielding gas is the only test required for classification of a product under this specification. Tests required for cach single gas are specified in Table 2. The purpose of these tesis is 1o de- ‘ermine the purity and dew point of the shielding gas. 8. Retest fany gas fails to meet its requirements, that test shall be repeated twice. The results of both retests shall meet the requirement ofthis specification, STD-AWS AS.32-ENGL 1997 MM O7842b5 0508522 975 a Table 2 Tests Required for Classification Gas Dew Mixtwre Purity Point Composition gle gas ‘Req. Reg. Nat Applicable Multicomponent gas Req Req? Rea Special gasmixture* Reg. Req. _ Not Required Nove: 2 Fach gas of ucompnent wire shal be ste for and mest, the purty requirements oF tht specie gas (ee Section 9 and Tusk Dh ‘The mulicomponent gas mixture shall mes the dew eit eeu ‘Rent ot green he hess depo of the nv gases a the mature se Seton 10 ard Table 1, Tnaividuly filed cylinder or one cylinder em ech filing man {616 prop, sul be ested for and met the rqucemets of Pat By Tas, Prcedues, and Reqoiement or the mote composon. 4. The gases a lated iy SOG, If the results of one or both eetests fail to meet the re- ‘quirement, the gas being tested shall be considered as not meeting the requirements of this specification for that classification, In the event that appropriate procedures were not fol- lowed in preparing the test sample(s) or in conducting, the test, the test shall be considered invalid, without te- gard (0 whether the test was actually completed, or whether test results met or failed to meet the require: ‘ment. In this ease, the requirement for two retests of the ‘gas sample does not apply. 9. Chemical Analysis Samples of gas(es) for chemical analysis shall be {drawn from an individual cylinder, vessel of from the gas putlet source. ‘The sample shall be analyzed by accept- able methods. Results of chemical analysis of a specific ‘gas(¢s) shall comply with the requirements of Table | for the gas being analyzed. The referee method for chemical analysis of gases shall be ASTM E 260, Standard Prac tice for Packed Column Gas Chromatography. When mixed gases are being analyzed, the volumetric percent age of minor components shall be within 10 percent re ative to the nominal percentage of the minor component ofthe classification, See 13.1 and 13.3 for examples, 10. Dew Point Determination Sarnple gases for dew point analysis shall be drawn from the individual eylinder, vessel, or gas cutlet source. ‘Any standard dew point measurement method may be used, Dew point may be expressed in °F at one atmo: Copia by the American Nellg Soci Sup Jal O5 121-24 1995 3a sphere pressure (14.7 psia), [°C at 760 mm of mercury], or in ppm. The Dew Point Conversion Chart, see Table 3, may be used to convert dew point measurements to oF from °F, °C, or ppm. Results ofthe dew point test shall, meet, of exceed, the requirements of Table | for the ‘gases being analyzed. Part C Manufacture, Packaging, and Identification 11. Method of Manufacture Shielding gases classified according to this specifica tion may be manufactured by any method that wil pro: duce gas or gas mixtures that meet the requirements of this specification, 11.1 Cylinder Residual Gases, All gas containers shall, either be evacuated or, if not evacuated, residual gases, shall be analyzed for composition and purity prior to filing? 12. Packaging ‘Gases and gas mixtures shall be packaged in aceor- dance with Department of Transportation (DOT) regula- tions for protection during shipment and normal storage conditions.* Cylinder sizes shall be as agreed upon be- ‘tween purchaser and supplier. Cylinders shall be labeled in accordance with Sections 13 and 14. 13. Identification 13.1 Individual gas components are ident lowing codes: by the fol- A—Argon C— Carbon Dioxide He —Helium H— Hydrogen N— Nitrogen Oxygen 5. CGA P-1S, Filling of dustrial and Medical Nonflammable Compressed Gas Cylinders, cin be ablaned Irom the Com- pressed Gas Associaton, In. 1725 Jefferson Davis Highway. Suite 1004, Aslington, VA 22202-8102 6. DOT regulations can be obtained from the Department of Transporation, NASSIF Building, 400 Th SicetS.W., Wash ington, DC 20890, STD-AUS AS-32-ENGL 1997 MM 0784265 OS09L3 402 Mm Dew Point Conversion Chart (1 Atmosphere) (70°F @ 147 psiai21°C @ 760 mm (Hg) Table 3 Dew Point Dew Point Dew Point *c ppm E c fom *c ern =130 900 01 383 133 “389 1 =120 “aaa 02s “18 43 37 383 153 =1i0 “789 963 312 154 36 318 68 =i0s =76.1 1.00 367 166 a5 “372 174 =Io4 156 108. =$6.1 119 = 3367 18s =108) “150 Lis 8 556 192 3 36.1 156 “102 aaa 129 oor 350 206 2 “386 210 101 “39 140 6 sa 21 7 350 22 =100 33 133 +5 339 26 0 M4 2s 9 28 166 = 333 256 29 on9 250 8 “22 18 “3 “328 25 28 333 265 97 17 196 2 322 Da 7 23 2a 96 m1 2s 6 S13 317 26 “22 300 9s 708 235, 0 Su 340 3s 37 317 8 =100 254 “39 S088 365 a 31 338 “93 4 276 38 -s00 30 3 =306 358 2 “689 3.00 37 494 ag | 22 200 378 91 “683 328 6 489 486 2 24a 400 -90 “618 333 a5 83 480 20 289 am 9 “612 384 ‘4 18 si “9 283 48 “8 667 45, 35 a8 a5 ao “66.1 450 9 a7 00 6 656 478 82 “16 330 a5 630 53 0 as 560 4 “44 37, n a4 590 3 62 76 “3 630 2 66 2 “2 660 “a 72 37 =r 700 30 78 92 =o 740 9 84 8 E) 7380 7 91 10s 8 820 a1 98 us a 0 16 10s 119 ee) 920 a5 na 128 s 370 a8 23 136 4 1020 Copy by the Amen ellg Society Sup Jal O5 121-24 1995 STD-AUS AS.32-ENGL 1997 ‘The classification system is based on volumetric per- centages. The classification designators remain the same for both U.S. Customary Units and the ST units. The shielding gas classification system is composed of the following designator and number arrangement (1) SG—Shielding Gas Designator. The leters SG at the beginning of each classification designation ident fies the product as a shielding gas. These letters are fol- lowed by a hyphen, (2) SG-B—Base Gas Designator. Shielding gases are classified according to chemical composition. The lt- ter immediately tothe right of SG- indicates the singular ‘or major ges in the shielding gas or mixture (see Figure 1) G)SG-B XYZ—Minor Gas Component Designa- tors, The letters) immediately following the base gas in- cates the minor individual gas indicators in decreasing order of percent. These letters are followed by a hyphen, (4) SG-B XYZ. % /5/%—Percentage Designators. A slash shall be used to separate the individual minor components’ percentages for two or more component ‘mixtures. See Figure 2 and Table 4. The percentage desig- nator shown need not be present on the container’ kabel (5) S-B-G—Special Gas Mixture. Shielding gases may be classified as special and carry the “G' designa- tion. The base gas must be idemified. Minor gases need. not be identified but must be covered in 13.1 or repre sented by the “X” designation. The percentage of each, component shall be as agreed upon between the pur chaser and supplier. See Figure 3. The “X” designation shall be used when a gas mixture component is not cov- ered by the six base pases specified. The gas represented by the "X” must appear in parentheses after the "G”, See Figure 4 "AWS classifications for typieal gas mixtures are shown in Table 4, Table 4 AWS Classifications for ‘Typical Gas Mixtures Typical Gas ws Mixturos Classification %) Gas SG-AC25 7525 Argon + Carbon Dione SG-A0 98 Argon + Oxygen SG-AHE-10 910 Argon + Helium SO-AH 955 Argon + Hydrogen SO-Hea-25, 7825 Helium + Argon SG-HeAC 75/25 90/75/25 — Helium + Argon + Carbon Dioxide SG-ACO82 90182 Argon + Carbon Dioxide "+ Oxygen SHAG Special Argon + Mixture Copia by the American Nellg Soci Sup Jal O5 121-24 1995 mm o78u2b5 0508914 745 me sca SHIELOING GAS J L BASE GAS DESIGNATOR. DESIGNATOR Figure 1—Classification System for a Single Gas so-Bx—% 2 COMPONENT MIX SG—B XY—%!% 3 COMPONENT Mix r SG—B XVZ—%/%/% 4 COMPONENT MIX L MINOR castes) SHIELDING cas BASE GAS, DESIGNATOR DESIGNATOR DESIGNATOR AND % AMOUNT Figure 2—Classification System for Multicomponent Shielding Gases so—5—6 a L SPECIAL GAS Gas BASE GAS DESIGNATOR. DESIGNATION DESIGNATION ONLY Figure 3—Classification System for Special Multicomponent Shielding Gases so Bx SPECIFIC GAS) EXAMPLE: SHIELD BASE SPECIFIC KYRPTON GAS GAS. GAS. NEON ETC, Note: When "X"is use inthe classication, the designator gas represented by x" must be ciscosed within parentheses alter the lener "6" Figure 4—Classification System for “X” Designator Shielding Gases STD-AUS AS-32-ENGL 1997 MM 0784265 OSO89L5 LSS Ml 13.2 As stated in Section 9 of this specification, when ‘mixed gases are classified in accordance with this speci- fication, the percentage of the minor components) shall have a tolerance of #10% relative to the minor percent- age component. To compute the minor component range, ‘multiply the minor component percentage by 0.10 to get the «tolerance figure. Example: SG-AC-25 Ax with 22.5 to 27.5% CO> Ar=2% 0; 2x01 =02 2-02-18 2+02=22 Ax with 1.8 102.2% Op SG-A0-2 Copia by the American Nellg Soci Sup Jal O5 121-24 1995 14. Marking of High-Pressure Cylinders, Liquid Containers, and Bulk Vessels 14:1 All eginders and containers shall be marked in c- cordance with DOT regulations plus the following infor- ‘mation, legibly marked on, or attached to, each cylinder: + AWS specification and classification designation (year of issue may be excluded), ‘+ Supplier's name and product trade designation (name of gas) ‘+ Approved DOT waming label 14.2 The following example designates the minimum labeling requirement to comply with this specification ‘This product conforms to AWS AS.32, classified as SG-AC-25 STD-AUS AS~32-ENGL 2997 MM O764265 OS069Lb 51) mm Annex Guide to AWS Specification for Welding Shielding Gases (This Annex is nota part of ANSUAWS AS.32/A5.32M-97, Specification for Welding Shielding Gases, but is included or information purposes only.) Al. Introduction ‘The purpose of this guide is to correlate the shielding 28 classifications with their intended use so the specifica tuon can be used effectively. Appropriate welding pro- cesses ae refered to whenever that can be done and when, it would be helpful, Such references are intended only as ‘examples rather than complete listings ofthe welding pro- ‘cesses for which each shielding gas is suitable A2. Classification System ‘A2.1 The system for identifying the shielding gas classi- fications in this specification follows the standard pattern used in AWS filler metal specifications, The leter SG at the beginning of each classification designation stands, for shielding gas. The letter immediately to the right of SSG- indicates the singular oF base gas inthe shielding gas, mixture, For shielding gas mixtures, the letter designators im mediately following the base gas designator indicate ‘minor individual gas components in decreasing order of percent, These letters are followed by a hyphen and nom- inal whole numeric value of each minor gas volumetric percentage. there are more than one minor gas compo- nent, each numeric value in decreasing order is separated bya virgule A2.2 “G” Classification ‘A2.2.1 This specification includes shielding gases classified as SG-B-G, The last “G" indicates that the shielding gas is of a “General” classification. It is “Gen- eral” because not all ofthe particular requirements speci fied for each of the other classifications are met. The Copia by the American Nellg Soci Sup Jal O5 121-24 1995 intent in establishing this classification is to provide a ‘means by which shielding gases that differ, for example, chemical composition, from other classifications and do ‘ot meet the composition specified for any ofthe classi- fications in this document can still be classified. This is to allow a useful shielding gas—one that otherwise would have to await a revision of the specification—to be classified immediately under the existing document. ‘This means that two shielding gases—each bearing the same “G" classfication—may be quite different in some respect, for example, chemical composition, ‘A2.2.2 The point of difference (although not neces: sarily the amount of that ifference) between shielding {205 of 8 "G” classification and shielding gas of a similar classification without the “G” (or even with it, for that matter) will be readily apparent from the use of the words “not required” and “not specified” in the specif cation. The use of these words is as follows [Not Specified is used in those ateas of the specifica- tion that refer to the results of some particular test, Tt in- dicates that the requirements for that test are not specified for that particular classification, ‘Not Required is used in those areas ofthe specifiea- tion that refer tothe tests that must be conducted in order to classify a shielding gas. It indicates that that test is not uired because the requirements (results) forthe test have not been specified for that particular classification, Restating the case, when a requirement is not speci fied, itis not necessary to conduct the corresponding test in ofder to classify a shielding gas to that classification. ‘When a purchaser wants the information provided by that test, in order to consider a particular product of that classification fora certain application, the purchaser will Ihave to arrange for that information with the supplicr of STD-AUS AS-32-ENGL 1997 MM O7842b5 0508927 458 Ml the product. The purchaser will have to establish with that supplier just what the testing procedures and the ac- ceptance requirements are to be for that test. The pur- chaser should specify that information in the purchase order. A2.2.3 Request for Shielding Gas Classification 2.2.3.1 When a shielding gas cannot be classified according to some classification other than a “G” classi- fication, the manufacturer may request that a classifica tion be established for that shielding gas. The manufacturer may do this by following the procedure given here. When the manufacturer elects to use the “G” classification, the Committee on Filler Metals recom: ‘mends that the manufacturer still request that a classifi cation be established for that shielding gas, a long as the shielding ges is of commercial significance. A2.2.3.2 A request to establish a new shielding gas classification shall be a written request, and it needs to provide sufficient detail to permit the Committee on Filler Metals or the Subcommittee to determine whether a new classification or the modification of an existing classification is more appropriate, and whether either is necessary to satisfy the need. The request needs to state the variables and their limits, for such a classification oF modification. The request should contain some indica- tion ofthe time by which completion ofthe new classifi cation or modification is needed A22.3.3 The request should be sent to the Sec tary of the Committee on Filler Metals at AWS Head. quartets. Upon receipt of the request, the Secretary will do the following: (1) Assign an identifying number to the request. This umber shall include the date the request was received. (2) Confirm receipt of the request and give the ident fication number to the person who made the request. (3) Send a copy of the request to the Chair of the ‘Committee on Filler Metals and the Chair of the particu lar Subcommittee involved. (4) File the original request (5) Add the request to the log of outstanding requests. A2.2.3.4 All necessary action on each request will be completed as soon as possible. If more than 12 months, lapse, the Secretary shall inform the requestor of the ‘status ofthe request, with copies to the Chairpersons of the Committee and Subcommittee. Any request out- standing after 18 months shall be considered not to have been answered in a “timely manner” and the Secretary shall report it to the Chair of the Committee on Filler Metals for action, A2.2.3.5 The Secretary shall include a copy of the log of all requests pending and those completed during Copia by the American Nellg Soci Sup Jal O5 121-24 1995 the preceding year with the agenda for each Committee on Filler Metals meeting. Any other publication of re- quests that have been completed will be atthe option of the American Welding Society, as deemed appropriate A3. Acceptance Acceptance ofall shielding gases clasified under this, specification is in accordance with the tests and requite- ‘ments of Part B and C of this specification. Any testing a Purchaser requires of the supplicr, for gases shipped in accordance with ths specification, shall be clearly stated in the purchase order. Inthe absence of any such state ment in the purchase order, the supplier may ship the ‘gases with whatever testing the supplier normally con- ducts on gases ofthat classification. In such cases, accep- tance of the material shipped will be in aecordance with those requirements, Ad. Certificat ‘The act of placing the AWS specification and classi- fication designations on the packaging enclosing the produet, constitutes the supplier's (manufacturer's) cert- fication thatthe product meets all of the requirements of the specification. ‘The only testing requirement implicit inthis “certifi cation” is that the manufacturer has actually conducted the tests required by the specification on material that is representative of that being shipped, and that that mate- tial met the requirements ofthe specification, “Centfica tion” is not to be construed to mean that tess of any kind were necessarily conducted on samples of the specific ‘material shipped. Tests on such material may or may not have been conducted. The basis forthe “certification” re quired by the specification is the classification test of, “representative material” cited above, and the “Manufac- turer’s Quality Assurance Program’ in ANSUAWS ASO, Filler Metal Procurement Guidelines.) n AS. Ventilation During Welding ‘AS.L Five major factors govern the quantity of fumes in the atmosphere to which welders and welding operators are exposed during welding. They are the following: 2) Dimensions of the space in which the welding is done (with special regard to the height ofthe ceiling) 7. AWS standards can be obtained from AWS at $50 NW. LeJeune Re, Miami, FL 33126. STD-AUS AS-32-ENGL 1997 MM 0784265 OS0A9L8 394 mm (2) Number of welders and welding operators work ing in that space. {G) Rate of evolution of fumes, gases, or dust, accond= ing tothe materials and processes used. (4) The proximity ofthe welders or welding operators ‘o the fumes, as these fures issue from the welding zone, and tothe gases and dusts inthe space in which they are working, (5) The ventilation provided to the space in which the welding is done ‘AS.2 American National Standard ANSI/ASC Z49.1, Safety in Welding, Cutting, and Allied Processes (pub Tished by the American Welding Society), diseusses the ventilation that i required during welding and should be roferred to for details. Attention is drawn particularly to the sections on “Health Protection and Ventilation.” AG. Welding Considerations The properties of gases affect the performance of all are welding processes. The ionization potential of the shielding gas influences the ease of ate initiation and sta bility. Thermal conductivity of a gas determines the volt- age and energy constant of the are. Gases such as carbon, sioxide can have higher heat conductivity than helium at, are temperatures because of the effects of disassociation ‘and recombination, Reactive and oxidizing gases such as carbon dioxide (CO,) and oxygen (O;) can have detrimental effects on base metals such as aluminum, nickel, titanium, zirco- nium, and tungsten. For this reason, carbon dioxide or ‘oxygen cannot be used as the shielding gas for gas tung sen are welding. Proper gas selection is crucial to efficient welding in the most cost-effective manner. Many factors must be considered. These are not limited (othe following (1) Type and thickness of base metal being welded Q)Are @) Metal transte (3) Travel speed (8) Depth and width of fusion (6) Cost of welding (7) Mechanical properties (8) Root opening (9) Cleanliness ofthe base material (10) Spatter (11) Are cleaning action (12) Gas purity (13) Joint configuration (14) Welding position (15) Fume generation Copy by the Amen ellg Society Sup Jal O5 121-24 1995 AT. Description and Intended Use of the Shielding Gases AT.A Single Gases. All single gases described in this specification may be purchased either a aliquid oF as a ‘238. I liquid, the material must be gasiied prior to being supplied to the welding are. AT.L.L SG-A (Argon). Argon is a chemically inert {288 which is used both singularly and in combination with other gases to achieve desired are characteristies for the welding of both ferrous and nonferrous metals, Al- ‘most all are welding processes can use argon or mixtures ‘containing argon to achieve good weldability, mechani cal properties, are characteristics and productivity. Argon is used for welding of nonferrous materials such as alu- ninum, nickel, copper, magnesium alloys, and reactive netals, which include zirconium and titanium. The low. ionization potential of argon creates an excellent current path and superior are stability. In the GMAW process, argon produces a constricted are column ats high current density which causes the arc enerey to be concentrated in 4 small central area of the weld pool, The result is 3 {depth of fusion profile which may have a distinct finger- like shape. Argon is also used for single-side me through welding with or without consumable inserts 7.1.2 SG-C (Carbon Dioxide). Carbon dioxide is an active gas used primarily for GMAW and FCAW. The heat ofthe are dissociates the carbon dioxide into earbon, monoxide and free oxygen. This oxygen will combine with elements transferring across the arc to form oxides. Which are released from the weld pool in the form of slag and scale, Although carbon dioxide is an active gas and produces an oxidizing effect, sound welds and acceptable mechanical properties can be achieved in many, But not all, metals and alloys. An electrode having higher amounts of deoxidizing elements is sometimes needed to compensate for the reactive nature ofthe gas, Carbon di oxide can be used for solid electrode GMAW with short, crcuiting and globular transfer and FCAW of carbon and stainless steel, Carbon dioxide cannot be used for spray transfer with GMAW, ‘The popularity of cathon dioxide is due to vommon availability as well as its lower cost per unit Volume. The lower cost per unit of gas does aot automatically trans late to lowest cost per foot of deposited weld and is aeatly dependent on the welding application, The Final weld cost with carbon dioxide shielding gas is influenced by bead contour, electrode spatter, and spatter removal The lower deposition efficiency for carbon dioxide ‘caused by fume and spatter loss will influence the final weld cost. ‘Argon is often mixed with carbon dioxide to improve the operating characteristics, If mechanical properties are STD-AUS AS:32-ENGL 19597 mM 0784265 0508929 220 Ml to be maximized, a carbon dioxide and argon mixture is ‘often recommended. 7.1.3 SG-N (Nitrogen), Shielding gases containing nitrogen are not recommended for welding carbon steel. Nitrogen will combine with other elements at high tem- peratures which is why itis not recommended as @ pri- ‘mary gas, but is used in combination with other gases for selected applications, Nitrogen is often used as a gas 10 protect the weld root from atmospheric contamination. Nitrogen root shielding of stainless steel welds may cause problems in those applications where control of the ferite content is critical. Increased nitrogen content of the weld may reduce the ferrite level. Small additions (53% of nitrogen have been combined with argon for GMA and GTA welding of duplex stainless steel A714 SG-He (Helium), Helium, a chemically inert ‘285, is used for weld applications requiring higher heat inputs, Helium may improve wetting action, depth of fu sion, and travel speeds. It does not produce the stable are provided by argon, Heliurn has higher thermal conductiv- ity and a wider are column than argon. The higher volt- age gradient increases heat input compared with argon, ‘promoting increased weld pool fluidity and better wetting action. This is an advantage when welding aluminum- ‘based, magnesium-based, and copper-based alloys. Using GMAW, 100-percent helium will only produce globular transfer. The argon percentage must be atleast 20 percent ‘when mixed with helium to produce and maintain a sta- ble spray transfer. AT.LS SG-O (Oxygen). Oxygen is never used as a base component of a shielding gas. It can be used as @ ‘minor component, AT.1.6 SG-Hl (Hydrogen). Hydrogen (H) is chemi- cally active and most commonly used at low percentages (1 to 356) as the minor component ina gas mixture (see Section A8, General Safety Considerations) A172 Binary Shielding Gas Mixtures A721 SG-AO (Argon + Oxygen Mixtures). The addition of oxygen o argon with the GMAW process im= proves the arc characteristics and increases weld pool fluidity by reducing the surface tension of the weld metal. Oxygen is an active gas which intensifies the are plasma, increasing heat input, travel speed, depth of fu- sion, and wetting. In GMAW, the addition of smatl amounts (1 to 8%) of oxygen to argon stabilizes the welding rc, increases the filler metal droplet rate, lowers. the spray are transition current, and influences bead shape. The weld pool is more fluid allowing improved. weld bead wetting. Oxygen is not used with GTAW be- ‘cause ofits detrimental effect on the tungsten electrode Copia by the American Nellg Soci Sup Jal O5 121-24 1995 TIAA SG-AO-L (Ar + 1% 03). This mixture is primarily used for spray transfer on stainless steels. One- percent oxygen is usually sufficient to stabilize the arc, increase the droplet rate and provide good fluidity of the weld pool. A72.1.2 SG-AO-2 (Ar + 2% 03). This mixture is used for spray atc welding on carbon steels, low-alloy steels and stainless steels, It provides additional wetting action over SG-AO-1. Weld mechanical properties and corrosion resistance (stainless steels) of welds made using the SG-AO-2 and SG-AO-1 shielding gases are ‘comparable. A72.1.3 $G-AO-5 (Ar + 8% 03. This mixture provides a more fluid but controllable weld pool. tis the ‘most commonly used argon plus oxygen mixture for gen- ‘eral carbon steel welding. The additional oxygen permits higher travel speeds on some weld applications. 7.2.1.4 SG-AO-8 (Ar + 8% 03). This mixture provides additional depth of fusion over SG-AO-S. Slightly lower are voltage or increased wire feed speed should be used, The higher weld pool fluidity and lower spray transition current of this mixture are advantageous ‘on some applications. This mixture ean be used in the short cireuiting and spray modes of transfer. Greater ox dation of the weld meta, with increased loss of man nese and silicon, should be expected. 7.2.2 SG-AC (Argon + Carbon Dioxide Mix- tures). The additions of carbon dioxide to argon can pro- duce a wide range of welding characteristics from high- ccurtent spray transfer to low-current short circuiting. transfer, ‘The dissociation of carbon dioxide inthe arc provides ‘oxygen for improved wetting and are stabilization. The high thermal conductivity of carbon dioxide tends to in crease the width of fusion as compared to SG-AO mix: tures. When using GMAW with solid carbon steel wires, 'SG-AC mixtures containing more than 20 percent carbon dioxide will not support spray transfer. A7.2.2.1 SG-AC-I through 10 (Ar + 1 t0 10% ‘CO,). Mixtures in this range may produce all modes of, ‘metal transfer useful on a variety of steel thicknesses. Depth of fusion is improved and porosity may be re- duced when using $G-AC compared to SG-AO. In the 5 to 10 percent carbon dioxide range the arc column becomes more defined. These mixtures ae effec- tive on material with mill scale. SG-AC-S is commonly used with GMAW for heavy-section low-alloy steel welding. 4722.2 SG-AC-11 through 20 (Ar + 11 t0 20% €O}). This mixture range has been used with various STD-AWS AS-32-ENGL 1997 MM O7842b5 0508520 TH? Mi GMAW and FAW applications. Most applications are ‘on carbon and low-alloy steels. By mixing argon and car bon dioxide within this range, maximum productivity on ‘thin-gauge materials can be achieved. The lower carbon dioxide percentages increase deposition efficiency by lowering spatter loss. 7.2.2.3 SG-AC-21 through 49 (Ar + 21 t0 49% CO}. Mixtures in this range are used in the short circuit ing GMAW mode and all positions of flux cored are welding. ‘SG-AC-25 is widely used to replace pure carbon di- ‘oxide. These mixes operate well on light-gauge material at low currents, and at high currents on heavy materials producing good are stability, weld pool contro, bead ap- pearance, and high productivity, A7.2.2.4 SG-AC-S0 (Ar + 0% CO,). This mix- ture (not supplied at full cylinder pressure because the CO; would liquefy a full pressure) is used where in- creased heat input and depth of fusion ate needed, Recom- ‘mended material thickness is 1/8 in, (3 mm] minimum for the globular mode of metal transfer. This mixture is satisfactory for pipe welding using the short circuiting transfer mode. Good weiting and bead shape without ex- cessive weld pool Muidity are the main advantages for the pipe welding application. When welding at high eur- rent levels, the metal transfer is more like welding in pure carbon dioxide than other previously described !argon mixtures, but some reduction in spatter loss can be realized due tothe argon addition A723 SG-AHe Gases (Argon + Helium Mixtures). ‘These mixtures are often recommended for GMA and GTA welding of alurvinum where an inereased width of fusion is required and bead appearance is of primary im- portance. Generally, the heavier the material the higher the percentage of helium. Small percentages of helium, as low as 10%, will affect the arc, In GMAW, as the he- lium percentage is increased, the are voltage and depth of fusion will increase while minimizing porosity A7.2.3.1 SG-AHe-10 through $0 (Ar + 10 ¢0 ‘50% He), These mixtures are used for welding nonfer- rous base metals. Mixtures in this range provide an in- crease in heat input and travel speed, with improved bead appearance. A7.2.4 SG-HeA (Helium + Argon Mixtures). He- Tum and argon mixtures are used primetily for GMA and GTA welding of nonferrous base metals, such as reactive ‘metals, aluminum, copper, nickel, magnesium, and the alloys. They are also used for welding some carbon stecls These mixtures are used on thicker base metals. Argon addition to a helium base gas will decrease the heat input and improve are starting characteristics, As argon per- centages increase, the are voltage, spatter, and weld Cony bythe Aretian Weng Sock he Sata 05 112241998 " depth-to-width ratio will decrease, In GMAW, the argon content must be at Feast 20 percent to produce and main- tain a stable spray transfer. A7.2.4.1 SG-HeA-10 through 25 (He + 10 to 25% Ar). These mixtures are used for welding copper over 1/2 in. {13 mm] thick and aluminum over 3 in. (75 mm} thick. Their high heat input improves weld fu- sion. They may be used for shor circuiting transfer with nickel filler metals, A7.24.2 SG-HeA-25 through 50 (He + 25 to 50% Ar). These mixtures increase heat input and reduce Porosity of welds in copper, aluminum, and magnesiui, ‘They are used for welding aluminum and magnesium greater than 1/2 in. (13 mm] thick inthe Mat position ‘A725 SG-AH (Argon + Hydrogen Mixtures) (see Section AB, Safety Considerations). Commercial argon- hydrogen gas mixtures produce reducing atmospheres. ‘SG-AH-1, SG-AH-2, of SG-AH-S are used for GTAW, GMAW, and PAW on a variety of base metals including the following: (1) nickel and nickel alleys (2) austenitic chromium-nickel stainless steels G) low-alloy steels (PAW only) Mixtures containing up to 15 percent hydrogen (SG- AHLIS) are used for GTAW of chrome-nickel stainless steels. Its high heat conductivity makes these mixtures useful in selected GTAW applications, Additions of hy- drogen inerease weld heat input permitting faster travel speeds, increased depth of fusion, improved bead wet. ting, and broader weld bead profile. Hydrogen additions to argon provide a reducing atmosphere which removes oxygen and oxides from the weld area, A7.2.6 SG-NH (Nitrogen + Hydrogen Mixtures). ‘This root shielding gas may be used inthe fabrication of chrome-nickel stainless steels. The ferrite precaution curlined in A7.1.3 applies also to applications using SG- NHS, or higher, as a root shielding medium. AT. Ternary Shielding Gas Mixtures A7.3.1 SG-ACO (Argon + Carbon Dioxide + Oxy- ‘gen Mixtures). Mixtures containing these three compo- nents sre versatile due to their ability to operate using shor cireuiting, globular, spray, and high-current-density spray transfer. Several ternary compositions are avail- able, and their application will depend on the desired metal transfer. A73.101 SG-ACO-5 through 10/1 through 6 (Ar + Sto 10% CO; + 1 10 6% O,). The advantage of these ‘mixtures is thei ability to shield carbon steel and low: alloy stee! of all thicknesses using any mode of metal transfer, These mixtures produce good welding charae- teristics and mechanical properties on carbon and low- STD-AWS AS-32-ENGL 1997 MM 0784265 050892] 989 i 2 alloy steels On thin-gauge base metals, the oxygen con- stituent improves arc stability at ]ow current levels (30 to 60 A) permitting the arc to be kept short and controlla- ble. This helps minimize excessive melt-through and dis- tortion by lowering the total heat input into the weld A73.2.SG-AHeC and SG-HeAC (Argon + Helium: + Carbon Dioxide Mixtures). Helium and carbon diox- ‘additions to argon increase the heat input to the weld, vreasing bead weiting and fluidity. The weld bead pro- file becomes flatter and wider. A73.2.1 SG-AHeC-10 through 40/1 through 15, (Ar-+ 10 to 40% He + 1 to 15% CO,). Mixtures inthis range have been developed for pulsed spray welding of cearbon, low-alloy, and stainless steels. These mixtures are most often used on heavy sections, in positions other than flat, Good mechanical properties and weld pool ‘control are characteristic of these mixtures. A73.2.2 SG-HeAC-25 through 35/1 through 5 (He + 25 t0 35% Ar + 1 to $% CO}). These mixtures are used for short circuit GMAW of high-strength steels. and stainless steels, especially for welding positions ‘other than flat. The carbon dioxide content is kept low to insure good weld metal toughness. The helium provides the heat necessary for good weld poo! fluidity. AT32.3 SG-HeAC-7.5)2.5 (90% He + 7.5% Ar ‘+ 2.8% CO,). This mixture is widely used for short ci cuit GMAW of stainless steel in all positions, The earbor dioxide content is kept low to minimize carbon pickup land assure good corrosion resistance, especially in multi- pass welds. The carbon dioxide plus argon addition pro- vides good are stability and depth of fusion. The high helium content provides higher heat input to overcome the high-viscosity nature of the stainless steel weld pool Applications include welding carbon steel, stainless and alloy sees. A733 SG-AHeO (Argon + Helium + Oxygen). He- lium additions to argon plus oxygen mixtures increase are energy with the GMAW process on ferrous base met- als. Argon/helium/oxygen mixtures have been used for spray arc welding and surfacing low-allay and stainless sels to improve the fluidity of the weld pool and the re- sultant bead shape as well as reduce porosity ‘ATA Quaternary Shielding Gas Mixtures ‘SG-AHeCO (Argon + Helium + CO; + 0; Mix- tures), This combination may be used for high-deposi- tion GMAW using the high-current-density transfer mode, These mixtures produce weld metal with good mechanical properties, and can be used throughout a Wide range of deposition rates. Their major application is Cony by te Arion lla Soy he ‘Sum dal 05 11:21:24 1998 a See welding low-alloy, high-strength steel base metals, and they have been used on carbon steel for high-productiv- ity welding, ‘ARGON, CARBON DIOXIDE, HELIUM, AND NITROGEN HAZARD: + Argon, carbon dioxide, helium, and nitrogen can dis place oxygen in a worker's breathing zone which can result in asphyxiation, and possibly death, when re- leased in poorly vented, confined work areas. Argon and cutbon dioxide cause a special concer since they are heavier than aie and may concentrate in low areas such as in the bottom of pressure vessels, tanks, pits, and ships. + Unless adequate ventilation and breathing air are sup- plied, care must be taken with any of these gases when they are relezsed in enclosed areas or confined spaces. A safety watch should be provided and in at tendance anytime a worker is using any of these gases ina vessel, ‘+ Additional information can be found in ANSVASC ZA9.A, Safety in Welding, Cutting, and Allied Pro- cesses, COA publications, and from suppliers of the aforementioned gases HYDROGEN WARNING: + Hydrogen is highly flammable gas. A mixture of hy- ‘drogen with oxygen or at in a confined area will &x- plode when brought in contact with a flame or other source of ignition. Concentrations of hydrogen be: ‘ween 4 and 75 percent by volume in air are relatively easy to ignite by a low-energy spark and may cause an explosion, Smoking, open flames, unapproved clecti- cal equipment, and other ignition sources must not be permitted in hydrogen areas. Store containers out- doors or in other well-ventilated areas. + Before making any installation, become thoroughly familiar with NFPA (National Fire Protection Associ- ation) Standards No. 50-A, Standard for Gaseous Hy: drogen Systems at Consumer Sites; and 50-B. Standard for Liquefied Hydrogen Systems at Con- sumer Sites; and with all local safety codes. For fur- ther safety information, refer to supplier MSDS sheets ‘on hydrogen safety ‘+ Take every precaution against hydrogen leaks. Escap- ing hydrogen cannot be detected by sight, smell, or STD-AUS AS-32-ENGL 1997 MM O754265 O508922 815 mm A8. General Safety Considerations. A8.1 Burn Protection, Molten metal, sparks, slag, and thot work surfaces are produced by welding, cutting, and. allied processes. These can cause burns if precautionary measures are not used. Workers should wear protective clothing made of fire-resistant maverial, Pant eu open, pockets, or other places on clothing that can catch and re- tain molten metal or sparks should not be worn, Pant legs should be worn over the outside of high-top shoes, Hel- ‘mets or haad shields that provide protection for the face, neck, and ears, and a head covering to protect the head should be used. In addition, appropriate eye protection should be used, ‘When welding overhead or in confined spaces, ear plugs to prevent weld spatter from entering the ear canal should be worn in combination with goggles or equiva- lent to give added eye protection. Clothing should be kept free of grease and oil. Combustible materials should not be carried in pockets. If any combustible substance hhas been spilled on clothing. a change to clean, fire-esis- tant clothing should be made before working with open ‘ares or flame. Aprons, eape-sleeves, leggings, and shoul: der covers with bibs designed for welding serviee should be used. Where welding or cutting of unusually thick base metal is involved, sheet metal shields should be used for extra protection. Mechaaization of highly haz~ ardous processes or jobs should be considered. Other personnel in the work area should be protected by the use ‘of noncombustible screens or by the use of appropriate protection as described in the previous paragraph. Before leaving a work area, hot workpieces should be ‘marked to alert other persons of this hazard. No aterapt should be made to repair or disconnect clectrical equip ‘ment when itis under load, Disconnection under load produces arcing of the contacts and may eause burns ot shock, or both. (Note: Burns can be caused by touching ‘hot equipment such as electrode holders, tips, and nos: sles. Therefore, insulated gloves should be worn when these items are handled, unless an adequate cooling pe: riod has been allowed before touching.) The following sources are for more detailed informe tion on personal protection: (1) ANSV/ASC ZA9.1, Safety in Welding, Cusrng, and Allied Processes, published by the American Welding Society, 550 NW. LeJeune Road, Miamni, FL 33126. (2) Code of Federal Regulations, Title 29 Labor, ‘Chapter XVI, Part 1910, OSHA General Indusity Stan dards available from the U.S. Goverament Printing Office, ‘Washington, DC 20402. (3) ANSUASC 287.1, Practice for Occupational and Educational Eye and Face Protection, American Na- tional Standards Institute, 11 West 42 Street, New York, NY 10036. Copy by the Amen ellg Society Sup Jal O5 121-24 1995 13 (A) ANSUASC 241.1, Safery-Toe Footwear, Ameri- ‘can National Standards Institue, 1 West 42 Street, New York, NY 10036, A8.2 Electrical Hazards, Electric shock can kill. How- ever, it can be avoided. Live electrical parts should not be touched, The manufacturer's instructions and recom= ‘mended safe practices should be read and understood, Faulty installation, improper grounding, and incorrect ‘operation and maintenance of electrical equipment ae al sources of danger All electrical equipment and the workpieces should be ‘grounded, The workpiece lead is not a ground lead. Its, used omly to complete the welding circuit. A separate con: nection is required to ground the workpiece, The work= piece should not he mistaken fora ground connection, ‘The correct cable size should be used, since sustained overloading will cause cable failure and result in possible electrical shock or fire hazard, All electrical connections. should be tight, clean, and dry. Poor connections can, overheat and even mell. Further they can produce dan- serous arcs and sparks, Water, grease, or dit should not be allowed to accumulate on plugs, sockets, or electrical units. Moisture can conduct electricity. To prevent shock, the work area, equipment, and clothing should be kept dry at all times. Welders should wear dry gloves and rubber-soled shoes, or stand 0M a dry board oF insulated platform, Cables and connections should be kept in good condition. Improper or worn elec i connections may create conditions that could cause lectrial shock or shor circuits. Worn, damaged, or bare cables should not be used. Open-circuit voltage should be avoided. When several welders are working with ares, of different polarities, or when a number of alternating current machines are being used, the open-circuit volt- ages can be additive. The added voliages increase the se verity of the shock hazard In ease of electric shock, the power should be turned off, Ifthe rescuer must resort to pulling the victim from the live contact, nonconducting materials should be used. IE the vietim isnot breathing, cardiopulmonary resuscit: tion (CPR) should be administered as soon as conta ‘with the electrical source is broken, A physician should be called and CPR continued until breathing has been re- ‘stored, or until a physician has arrived. Electrical burns are treated as thermal burns; that is, clean, cold (iced) compresses should be applied, Contamination should be avoided; the area should be covered with a clean, dry ‘dressing; and the patient should be transported 1o me cal assistance. Recognized safety standards should be followed, such as ANSUASC 249.1, Safety in Welding, Cutting, and Al lied Processes: National Electrical Code; andd NFPA No, 70, available from National Fire Protection Association, 1 Batterymarch Park, Quincy, MA 02269, STD.AWS AS.32-ENGL 2997 MM O7S42bS 0508523 75) Ml 4 ‘A8.3 Fumes and Gases. Many welding, cutting, and al- lied processes produce fumes and gases which may be ‘harmful to health. Fumes are solid particles which origi nate from welding filler metals and fluxes, the base metal, and any coatings present on the base metal. Gases are produced during the welding process or may be pro- dduced by the effects of process radiation onthe surround- ing environment, Management personnel and welders alike should be aware ofthe effects of these fumes and gases. The amount and composition of these fumes and gases depend upon the composition of the filler metal, shielding gas, base metal, welding process, current level, arc length, and other factors. ‘The possible effects of overexposure range from irri- tation of eyes, skin, and respiratory system to more se- vere complications. Effects may occur immediately or at some laler time. Fumes can cause sympioms such as nau- sea, headaches, dizeiness, and metal fume fever. The possibility of more serious health effects exists when es- pecially toxic materials are involved. In confined spaces, the shielding gases and fumes might displace breathing air to cause asphyxiation. ‘Various gases are generated during welding. Some are 1 product of the decomposition of fluxes and electrode coatings. Others are formed by the action of are heat or ultraviolet radiation emitted by the arc on atmospheric constituents and contaminants. Potentially hazardous {gases include carbon monoxide, oxides of nitrogen, ‘ozone, and decomposition products of chlorinated hydro” carbons, such as phosgene. ‘One’s head should always be kept out of the fumes. Sufficient ventilation, exhaust atthe ar, or both, should bbe used to keep fumes and gases from one's breathing zone and the general area. In some cases, natural air movement will provide ‘enough ventilation. Where ventilation may be question- able, ir sampling should be used to determine if eorrec- tive measures should be appli. More detailed information on fumes and gases pro-

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