welding electrode 2% cerium WC20 cerium tungsten electrode
Tungsten is combined with 2% ceria to form a tungsten-cerium oxide composite that is often used as a non-radioactive alternative to thoriated tungsten electrodes in welding applications.
The color of tungsten containing 2% ceria can vary but is usually light gray or off-white. The specific shade may depend on factors such as the manufacturing process and any additional coatings or treatments applied to the material.
Thoriated tungsten and cerium tungsten are both tungsten electrodes for welding, but they have different compositions and properties:
1.Thoriated tungsten:
-Thoriated tungsten electrodes contain a small amount of thorium oxide (usually about 1-2%). The addition of thorium improves the electron emission characteristics of the electrode, making it easier to start and maintain the welding arc.
-Thoriated tungsten is known for its high current carrying capacity, good arc stability and long life. It is commonly used in DC welding applications, especially for welding materials such as carbon steel, stainless steel, nickel alloys and titanium.
2. Tungsten cerium:
- Cerium tungsten electrodes contain cerium oxide as an alloying element. Common cerium tungsten compositions contain 1.5-2% cerium oxide.
- Cerium tungsten has good arc starting and stability, especially in low current welding applications. It is suitable for AC and DC welding and therefore suitable for a variety of materials and welding processes.
- Cerium tungsten is often selected as a non-radioactive alternative to thorium tungsten to address concerns about potential health risks associated with thorium exposure.
In summary, while both thoriated tungsten electrodes and cerium tungsten electrodes are used in welding, they have different compositions and are suitable for different welding applications and conditions. Thoriated tungsten is known for its high current carrying capacity and is often used in DC welding, while cerium tungsten has good arc starting and stability and is suitable for both AC and DC welding.
Yes, 2% thoriated tungsten electrodes are considered slightly radioactive due to the presence of thorium oxide in the electrode composition. Thorium is a naturally occurring radioactive element found in tungsten electrodes that emits low-level alpha particles. Although radioactivity levels are relatively low, it is still important to properly handle and dispose of thoriated tungsten electrodes to minimize potential exposure.
Due to the radioactive nature of thorium, the use, handling and disposal of thorium tungsten electrodes require safety and regulatory considerations. As a result, there is a shift towards non-radioactive alternatives such as tungsten cerium, tungsten lanthanate or other rare earth elements doped tungsten electrodes, especially in industries where worker safety and environmental concerns are critical.
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