I have a buddy who told me that using helium mix for gas will allow the load of the welder to be down while still achieving good weld characteristics. I know this is true, and the truth of it is not in question. What is, is the method of delivery. He said that I would need to regulators, 2 check valves, a "y" fitting, and 2 tanks. He also said to use about 60% helium to 40% argon. What is the problem with just getting an already mixed tank of argon and helium?

 

Argon and Helim don't mix. You'd get 100% helium for 60% of the tank, then 100% argon for the remaining 40%.

 

i believe your friend is only mostly correct instead of completely correct. i use both at work as your friend described w/ the 2 czech valves, 2 flowmeters (proper term), and the "y" connector. what i do differently is i use 20% helium and 80% argon. according to what i was taught in welding school by the former boston chairman of the american welding society is that using 20% of helium is identical to using 100% helium in tig welding. give it a try. let me know if you find a differance.