Tungsten Thoriated Red 2%

2% THORIATED TUNSTEN ELECTRODE

This has been the most commonly used type of tungsten for a long time and thus is the standard that is used for comparison to other tungstens. However, since it is a low-level radioactive hazard many users have switched to other alternatives. Regarding the radioactivity, Thorium is an alpha emitter but when its enclosed in a tungsten matrix the risks are negligible, thus holding a stick of Thoriated tungsten in your hand should not pose a great threat unless a welder has open cuts on their skin. Thoriated tungsten should not get in contact with open cuts or wounds. The more significant danger to welders can occur when thorium oxide gets into the lungs. This can happen from the exposure to vapours during welding or from ingestion of material/dust in the manufacture and grinding of the tungsten. Therefore, precautions should be taken when welding and use of an exhaust system should be implemented to remove the grinding dust from the work area when grinding tungsten. Proper disposal in an environmentally friendly way is also a responsibility. Notwithstanding these issues, 2% Thoriated tungsten is still the most commonly used tungsten and is a good general use tungsten. It has one of the lowest work functions, and it performs well when overloaded with extra amperage. This tungsten is used primarily for DC welding.

TT216 TT224 TT232 TT240