Argon Oxygen Mixtures:
Argon/oxygen blends are mostly widely used for conventional and pulsed spray transfer on clean (little or no scale or residual oil), plain carbon and stainless steel. These blends, typically 1, 2 or 5% oxygen, provide good arc stability and very low levels of spatter and fume. Higher levels of oxygen will also increase puddle fluidity that may make out-of-position welding more difficult.
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​Generally used for welding heavy section carbon steel for farm equipment, military transports, ships and automotive assemblies. These blends are also used for spray arc welding of both ferritic and austenitic stainless-steel components.
Argon Helium Mixtures:
Argon Helium mix is used in welding to balance the heat intensity of Helium with stability and control by Argon. The most commonly used mixture is 75% He & 25%Ar. A 50-50 mix (50% Ar and 50% He) is used for TIG welding.
Generally heavier the material, higher the percentage of Helium. Small % of Helium (even 10%) will affect the arc & mechanical properties of the weld.