WT 40 - Orange tungsten electrodes for the highest demands in the direct current range
When it comes to absolute ignition safety and stability in the High performance range, experienced welders often still use the WT 40 these tungsten electrodes with the identification colour orange contain 4 % thorium oxide % thorium oxide. This high oxide content ensures physical properties Properties that are valued in industrial pipework and tank construction construction, especially in the processing of high-alloy materials Materials.
WT 40 - orange - 313WTR0001
WT 40 - orange - 313WTR0002
WT 40 - orange - 313WTR0003
WT 40 - orange - 313WTR0004
WT 40 - orange - 313WTR0005
WT 40 - orange - 313WTR0006
Technical superiority through thorium
The main advantage of the WT 40 lies in its high thorium content. Compared to Compared to pure tungsten (green) or lower alloyed variants, the thorium drastically reduces the work function of the electrons. The The result is excellent ignition properties - even at low currents Even at low currents, the arc ignites immediately and stably. Annoying jumping of the arc is effectively avoided here.
The current carrying capacity of these MMAs is above average. The tip retains its shape even during long welding cycles which significantly increases the service life and minimises set-up times.
Areas of application and materials
The question of which TIG MMA tungsten electrode to use for which material is Material is clearly defined with the WT 40: it is the specialist for direct current direct current welding (DC). It shows its strengths above all with the following materials:
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High-alloy steels and stainless steels (V2A, V4A)
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Nickel and nickel-based alloys
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Titanium and titanium alloys
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Copper and copper alloys
It can also be used for unalloyed steel, but is often replaced by lanthanated alternatives due to radioactivity (see safety note) lanthanised alternatives.
Expert note: For aluminium and magnesium alloys, WT 40 is generally not the first choice for aluminium and magnesium alloys. These materials usually require Alternating current (AC) welding to break down the oxide layer. For this mMA made of pure tungsten (green) or special mixed oxides are better Oxides are better suited for this, as thorium electrodes can tend to crack under can tend to crack under alternating current.
What does the colour of a tungsten electrode mean?
The colour coding at the end of the needle is internationally standardised and provides Information about the chemical composition and the oxide additives.
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Orange (WT 40): 4 % thorium oxide. Extremely flammable, high Current carrying capacity, radioactive.
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Red (WT 20): 2 % thorium oxide. The "standard classic" for Direct current, also radioactive.
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Green (WP): Consists of pure tungsten. Used almost exclusively exclusively for aluminium alloys and magnesium for Sinusoidal alternating current.
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Gold (WL 15) / grey (WC 20): Contains lanthanum or cerium oxide. Non-radiating alternatives for steels and stainless steel.
When choosing the colour, you should always check whether your TIG tungsten electrode set-up is designed for DC or AC current. Orange and red dominate the DC range for high-alloy metals.
What is TIG welding anyway?
Tungsten inert gas welding (TIG) is regarded as the "royal process" of joining technology Joining technology. In this process, an electric arc burns between the non-melting tungsten tungsten electrode and the workpiece. An inert (usually argon or helium) protects the weld pool and the electrode from atmospheric MMA from atmospheric influences.
Since the MMA itself does not melt, the welder can control the Energy supply and the addition of filler material (the metal) separately from each other from each other. This enables extremely precise seams on high-alloy steels or thin sheets from a few tenths of a mm. The Properties of the seam in TIG welding are of the highest purity and quality Quality.
Safety note: Handling MMA containing thorium
The WT 40 contains thorium oxide, an alpha emitter. The radiation is low, but the utmost care must be taken when grinding the MMA is required. The grinding dust must not be inhaled.
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Use extraction systems when grinding.
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Use a wet grinder
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Wear respiratory protection (FFP3).
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Dispose of sanding dust properly.
Due to these safety aspects, there is a slow shift towards radiation-free alternatives (such as E3 or WL types) is finding favour in the industry Industry. Nevertheless, many professionals for specific applications still swear by the high power reserves of the WT 40.
Technical data and settings at a glance
To utilise the full potential of the WT 40, make sure you make the correct correct settings on your welding machine.
| Parameters | Recommendation |
|---|---|
| Welding diameter | Common diameters are 1.6 mm, 2.4 mm and 3.2 mm |
| Grinding angle | The more acute (approx. 30°), the deeper the penetration |
| Type of current | Direct current (DC) negative pole |
| Material thickness | From 0.5 mm up to thick-walled tubes |
