How to weld stainless steel?

Do you have any questions about welding stainless steel?

The TIG process is commonly used to weld stainless steel. Valued for its quality, TIG is ideal for thinner steels: unlike MAG, the heat input is separate from the metal input, allowing for better adjustment by the welder. The majority of stainless steel applications are for thin steels, making TIG one of the most popular processes.

It is necessary to use an inert gas when welding stainless steel with a TIG welder: pure argon or a mixture of argon, helium, or hydrogen for optimized performance in terms of penetration, feed rate, and bead appearance. Generally speaking, only austenitic stainless steels are compatible with hydrogen, which should therefore be avoided for ferritic stainless steels, for example. Argon, helium, is largely compatible with stainless steels.

These two industrial welding processes are the most common for this type of material. The use of argon is recommended as well as gas mixtures that allow for improved performance depending on the desired nuances and performances.

Other techniques for welding stainless steel

Other processes or techniques, such as plasma or laser welding, are suitable for welding stainless steel. The energy density generated allows for high performance in terms of speed and weld quality.

Did you know? The use of filler metal (in the form of rod for TIG or wire for MAG) and shielding gas are necessary for welding in many cases. To make the right choice, we recommend consulting your filler metal and gas supplier, specifying the chosen process and determining the ideal combination for the success of your welding project.

Air Liquide and its experts are available to answer any questions you may have regarding the various techniques for welding stainless steel. Don't hesitate to contact them and consult our pages on:

• Processes for: TIG welding of ordinary steel; MIG and MAG welding; brazing;
• Welding of various materials: copper and alloys