scope:

This Standard lays down requirements for tungsten electrodes for inert gas shielded arc welding, and for plasma cutting and welding. In inert gas shielded arc welding and in plasma cutting and welding, it is essential that the electrode be carefully selected. Its nature, diameter, surface condition and the type of current used greatly influence work quality and arc stability. Owing to the development of arc temperatures in the order of 4000° C, it is necessary to use a metal with an extremely high melting point for the manufacture of an electrode which is non-consumable by definition. Tungsten meets this requirement and, in addition, provides the advantage of a high thermionic emission; it is therefore a prime material for making such electrodes.