14
Odourless and colourless shielding gas may escape unnoticed if an adapter is used for the
shielding gas connection. Prior to assembly, seal the device-side thread of the adapter for
the shielding gas connection using suitable Teflon tape.
Factors affecting
welding results
Danger from
shielding gas cyl-
inders
Shielding gas cylinders contain gas under pressure and can explode if damaged. As the
shielding gas cylinders are part of the welding equipment, they must be handled with the
greatest of care.
Protect shielding gas cylinders containing compressed gas from excessive heat, mechan-
ical impact, slag, naked flames, sparks and arcs.
Mount the shielding gas cylinders vertically and secure according to instructions to prevent
them falling over.
Keep the shielding gas cylinders well away from any welding or other electrical circuits.
Never hang a welding torch on a shielding gas cylinder.
Never touch a shielding gas cylinder with an electrode.
Risk of explosion - never attempt to weld a pressurised shielding gas cylinder.
Only use shielding gas cylinders suitable for the application in hand, along with the correct
and appropriate accessories (regulator, hoses and fittings). Only use shielding gas cylin-
ders and accessories that are in good condition.
Turn your face to one side when opening the valve of a shielding gas cylinder.
Close the shielding gas cylinder valve if no welding is taking place.
If the shielding gas cylinder is not connected, leave the valve cap in place on the cylinder.
The manufacturer's instructions must be observed as well as applicable national and inter-
national regulations for shielding gas cylinders and accessories.
Danger from es-
caping shielding
gas
The following requirements with regard to shielding gas quality must be met if
the welding system is to operate in a correct and safe manner:
- Size of solid matter particles < 40 μm
- Pressure dew point < -20 °C
- Max. oil content < 25 mg/m³
Filters must be used if necessary.
NOTE! There is an increased risk of soiling if ring mains are being
used
Risk of suffocation from the uncontrolled escape of shielding gas
Shielding gas is colourless and odourless and, in the event of a leak, can dis-
place the oxygen in the ambient air.
- Ensure an adequate supply of fresh air with a ventilation rate of at least
20 m³/hour.
- Observe safety and maintenance instructions on the shielding gas cylin-
der or the main gas supply.
- Close the shielding gas cylinder valve or main gas supply if no welding is
taking place.
- Check the shielding gas cylinder or main gas supply for uncontrolled gas
leakage before every start-up.