Abstract: A gas shielding arrangement and method is disclosed for use with tungsten inert gas (TIG) welding and the like, consisting of an inner, primary flow of an inert gas such as argon, passing about the electrode and weld area, and an outer radially spaced secondary flow of hydrogen gas, completely enveloping the flow of inert gas and ignited by the welding arc to provide a flow of burning hydrogen gas which consumes the atmospheric oxygen penetrating into the flow to minimize oxidizing of the weld metal. The flow of hydrogen gas also minimizes dissipation of the inert gas to conserve and improve its shielding effect. The heat generated by the burning hydrogen heats the portions of the workpiece surrounding the weld to produce superior welds with improved grain structure by minimizing the quenching effect of the weld created by conduction of the weld heat into the surrounding metal.

Abstract: A surface treatment is disclosed for welding rod or wire of ferrous composition to greatly enhance its resistance to corrosion and considerably extend shelf life. The treatment consists of forming a relatively thick (0.0001 inches) black oxide surface layer on the rod, by an aqueous alkali-nitrate immersion process, and is applied to the wire or rod after the final drawing operation in which the outside diameter of the wire or rod is sized to closely controlled tolerances to insure proper feeding in reel and other automated arc welding operations. The aqueous alkali-nitrate immersion process enables the formation of relatively thick layer of black oxide without appreciably affecting the diameter of the treated welding rod, such that mechanical working may be entirely completed prior to treatment, insuring a smooth, uninterrupted coating.