Tungsten electrode tips come in a variety of colors to identify the composition of the electrode. Here are some common colors and their meanings:Pure tungsten: greenThoriated tungsten: redTungsten cerium: orangeZirconium tungsten: brownTungsten lanthanide: gold or gray It is important to note that the electrode tip is often painted a color to indicate the type of tungsten, and the actual color of the tungsten itself may vary. Always check the packaging or product information carefully to confirm the type of tungsten electrode you are using.

Pure tungsten electrodes are used primarily with alternating current (AC) for welding aluminum and magnesium. They have a green tip and are known for their excellent thermal conductivity and ability to maintain a sharp tip, making them a good choice for welding applications where a precise arc is required. Additionally, pure tungsten electrodes have a high resistance to contamination and are often used in applications where other electrode types may not be suitable.

A thoriated tungsten electrode is a tungsten electrode alloyed with thorium oxide. They are commonly used in direct current (DC) welding applications, particularly for welding steel and other non-ferrous materials. The addition of thorium oxide improves the electron emission characteristics of the electrode, making it suitable for high current and high temperature welding applications. However, it is worth noting that thoriated tungsten electrodes pose some health and safety concerns due to thorium’s radioactive properties, and alternative non-radioactive tungsten electrodes are available for welding applications. When working with thoriated tungsten electrodes, it is critical to follow safety guidelines and proper disposal procedures.

Tungsten cerium oxide electrode is a tungsten electrode alloyed with cerium oxide. These electrodes are commonly used in welding applications because the presence of cerium oxide helps improve the performance of the electrode, especially in terms of arc stability, electrode life, and overall weld quality. Tungsten cerium oxide electrodes are commonly used in direct current (DC) and alternating current (AC) welding applications and are suitable for a variety of materials, including stainless steel, aluminum and other non-ferrous metals. They are known for their ability to produce a stable arc, improve ignition characteristics and reduce tungsten splash. Cerium tungsten oxide electrodes provide a reliable and versatile choice for welding applications in different industries.

Zirconium tungsten electrode is a tungsten electrode doped with zirconium or alloyed with zirconium. Zirconium tungsten electrodes are used in tungsten inert gas welding (TIG) and are known for their high temperature strength and spatter resistance. These electrodes are generally suitable for welding applications involving high currents and heavy-duty materials such as stainless steel and aluminum. The zirconium content in the electrode helps improve its performance under conditions of extreme heat and high currents, making it suitable for demanding welding tasks. Zirconium tungsten electrodes are available in different compositions and are selected according to the specific requirements of the welding process and the type of welding material.