1800 STARGAS (1800 782 742)
Reviewed by Richard Fowles, MSc (Eng) Welding Engineering, Metallurgy and Materials Engineering
Fellow of the Institute of Engineers Australia
Argon – Argon Gas Bottle – MIG Gas Bottle & TIG Argon Welding Gas Near Me – MIG Gas – TIG Gas
What is Argon? What is argon used for? Shielding Gas
What is Argon
Discovered in 1894 by Lord Rayleigh and William Ramsay, Argon (Ar) is a colourless, odourless, inert gas that makes up about 0.934% of Earth’s atmosphere.
It is the third most abundant atmospheric gas on Earth.
It is a non-reactive noble gas used in applications requiring a non-reactive atmosphere, such as arc welding, incandescent and fluorescent bulbs, double-paned windows, growing semiconductor crystals, and food packaging.
Due to its inert nature and stable, full outer electron shell, it is mostly unreactive with other elements.
However, compounds can be formed under specific conditions.
Properties
- Element Name: Argon (Ar)
- Description: Colourless, odourless, and tasteless
- Atomic Number: 18
- Atomic Mass: 39.948 g/mol
- Group: 18 (Noble gases)
- State: Gas at room temperature, but can be liquid at very low temperatures
- Density: Its density is heavier than air at 1.78 kg/m³ at 0∘ and 1 atm.
Argon Toxicity – Asphyxiant
While it is a non-toxic, argon gas is heavier than air so it could be a dangerous asphyxiant in an enclosed space.
Argon is colorless, odorless, and tasteless, so there are no immediate warning signs of an oxygen-deficient atmosphere.
Argon is denser than air, it settles in low-lying areas and confined spaces, such as pits, tanks, and crawl spaces, displacing the oxygen needed for breathing.
It can be fatal in high level concentrations.
What is Argon Used For?
- Argon is used as a shielding gas to prevent oxidation and contamination of non-ferrous metals like aluminum, titanium, and magnesium during MIG welding and TIG welding
- Argon is used to fill incandescent light bulbs, preventing the filament from oxidizing.
- Used in electronics as a protective atmosphere for growing crystals of semiconductors and in manufacturing for producing metals like titanium and uranium.
- Argon is blown through molten iron to remove carbon and homogenize the steel mixture.
- Insulates the drysuits of deep-sea divers.
- Document and artifact preservation: Argon’s non-reactive nature provides a protective, oxygen-free atmosphere for displaying and storing perishable historical documents
- Used in lasers for eye surgery.
- Fenestration insulation: Used in double-glazing windows and doors for insulation.
- Argon is used for purging and blanketing in chemical processes and for controlled atmospheres in the testing of aerospace componentry and rocket engines
- Argon is used to preserves the freshness of perishable foods by minimizing oxidation.
- Argon gas is used in certain endoscopic procedures, including intestinal polyp removal and the treatment of gastrointestinal bleeding
- Argon gas is the most frequently used inert gas.
- Argon is 2.5 times more soluble in water than nitrogen and is about as soluble as oxygen.
TIG Argon Welding – Shielding Gas – MIG Gas – MIG Welding Gas
Argon gas, in an argon gas bottle (argon bottle), is the primary TIG welding gas (TIG gas) as a welding gas – shielding gas for most metals.
Argon gas bottle (MIG welding gas – MIG gas) is also used as MIG welding gas (MIG gas) – shielding gas for MIG welding aluminium and MIG brazing.
In general the term MIG gas (European term for Metal Inert Gas) welding is used loosely in our industry and covers everything Gas Metal Arc Welding (US term is GMAW) related.
The term MIG gas correctly refers only to the use of fully inert welding gas – shielding gases (MIG welding gas – MIG gas) such as argon gas and helium gas, and generally mixes of these two.
Pure CO2 and argon gas and CO2 mixtures are the most common active gases used for MIG welding gas (MIG gas), aside from MIG brazing and aluminium.
As soon as a CO2 or O2 component, or both, are introduced to the blend, it then becomes an active welding gas – shielding gas.
This is because the active components of CO2 and O2 react with the molten weld pool and droplets moving across the arc, and is hence termed Metal Active Gas (MAG welding).
This is the difference difference between MIG and MAG welding.
Pure CO2 and argon gas and CO2 mixtures are used in the production of reactive elements, including titanium.
Argon gas bottle (argon bottle) is mostly used as TIG or GTAW welding gas (TIG gas), welding gas – shielding gas and purging gas, supplied in argon gas bottle sizes.
Argon gas is the principal gas used in welding gas – shielding gas (TIG gas) applications due to its high density and total inertness.
The low ionising potential of argon gas allows easy forming of a welding arc without reacting with the metal components being welded.
Argon gas bottle (argon bottle) can be used on a wide range of ferrous and non-ferrous metals as welding gas – shielding gas for welding and cutting.
It is the most affordable alternative, when nitrogen is not sufficiently inert.
Argon gas is also used as an insulating gas between the panes of dual pane windows, as it has low thermal conductivity, pumped in between with argon gas bottle pressure.
It is stored and transported in various argon gas bottle sizes (argon bottle) larger vessels.
Laser Welding Machine – Laser Cutting Machine – Laser Cleaning Machine
100% Argon gas or Nitrogen gas are widely used for hand-held laser welding machine, laser cutting machine or laser cleaning machine systems.
The choice between the two gases is dependent on the advice of the equipment supplier and the material being processed.
Argon Gas Bottle (Argon Bottle) – MIG Gas Bottle
An argon gas bottle (argon bottle) is steel pressure vessels for holding compressed argon gas.
An argon gas bottle is used as a MIG gas bottle for MIG welding (MIG welding gas – MIG gas).
Argon gas bottle gauge pressure is in a range from 15,800 kPa to 30,000 kPa.
The argon gas bottle (argon bottle) outlet connection type is AS 2473 Type 10.
Argon Gas Bottle Colour – Argon Bottle Colour
Argon gas bottle colour (argon bottle colour) code is Peacock Blue.
Argon Gas Bottle Sizes Australia (Argon Bottle Sizes) – Argon Cylinder Sizes
Argon gas bottle sizes Australia (argon bottle sizes) include G2, E2 & D size argon gas bottle (argon bottle) – welding bottle sizes, argon gas cylinder sizes capacity & argon gas bottle dimensions.
D size argon gas bottle (argon bottle) welding gas – shielding gas
- D size argon gas bottle (argon bottle) contains 2.0 m³ (2,000 Litres).
- D size argon bottle dimensions are 750mm high x 170mm diameter, and the D size argon bottle weight is 20Kg.
E size argon gas bottle (argon bottle) welding gas – shielding gas
- An E2 size argon gas bottle (argon bottle) contains 4.1 m³ (4,100 Litres).
- E size argon bottle dimensions are 1460mm high x 230mm diameter, and the E size argon gas bottle (argon bottle) weight is 24.5Kg.
G size argon gas bottle (argon bottle) welding gas – shielding gas
- A G2 size argon gas bottle (argon bottle) contains 10.2 m³ (10,200 Litres).
- G size argon bottle dimensions are 780mm high x 204mm diameter, and the G size argon bottle weight is 54Kg.
- Argon gas bottle colour is Peacock Blue.
Argon Gas Bottle Sizes – Argon Bottle Size Chart –
MIG Gas Bottle Sizes – Argon Gas Cylinder Size Chart
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Argon Gas Bottle Sizes (Argon Bottle Sizes)
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| Argon Gas Bottle Sizes | Height | Diameter | Tare Weight | Argon Gas Bottle Capacity |
| G2 size argon gas bottle | 1460 | 230 | 54 kg | 10.2 m3 |
| E2 size argon gas bottle | 780 | 204 | 24.5 kg | 4.1 m3 |
| D size argon gas bottle | 750 | 170 | 20 kg | 2.0 m3 |
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Actual Argon gas bottle capacity, argon gas cylinder dimensions and tare weights may vary by Argon gas bottle sizes
Copyright © 2019. Elgas Ltd.
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Argon Gas Bottle Capacity – Argon Gas Cylinder Capacity
Argon gas bottle capacity (argon gas cylinder capacity) is:
- 2.0 m³ (2,000 Litres) for a D size argon gas bottle (argon bottle) capacity
- 4.1 m³ (4,100 Litres) for an E2 size argon gas bottle (argon bottle) capacity
- 10.2 m³ (10,200 Litres) for a G2 size argon gas bottle (argon bottle) capacity
Argon Gas Bottle Prices (Argon Bottle Prices) – MIG Gas Bottle Prices – Argon Gas Near Me – Argon Gas Suppliers
As your local argon gas suppliers, we have very competitive argon gas bottle prices (argon bottle prices) along with free delivery with argon gas near you in our normal service areas.
Call now for a quote or get a fast online argon gas bottle prices (MIG gas bottle prices) quote.
Stargas New Customer Offer
$50 Off First Order
Quote offer SG50 when placing your first gas order
Valid 1 November 2025, expiring 31 October 2028
Argon Uses – What is Argon Used For? Common Uses of Argon
Argon gas uses are varied. Common uses of argon gas bottle include as welding gas – shielding gas (MIG gas of TIG gas) in welding, the electronics industry, abattoirs, fire retardant, light globes and window insulation.
Why is argon gas bottle used in welding?
- Argon welding gas bottles (argon gas bottle) for MIG and TIG welding processes and for plasma cutting
- Argon gas bottle for welding and cutting a wide range of ferrous and non-ferrous materials
- Argon welding gas bottles (argon gas bottle) are used in arc welding such as gas metal arc welding and gas tungsten arc welding, as a welding gas – shielding gas (MIG welding gas – MIG gas or TIG gas).
Why is argon gas used in double glazed windows?
- It is used in dual paned windows for thermal insulation, pumped in between the panes with argon gas bottle pressure, providing more energy efficient windows.
Argon gas industrial uses
- In the electronics industry, argon gas is used for growing crystals of silicon and germanium in a controlled atmosphere.
- It is used in the poultry industry to asphyxiate birds, as it is more humane than other abattoir options.
Argon gas fire extinguishing systems
- It is used for extinguishing fires in special instances where product or equipment might be damaged by foam, water or other extinguishing agents.
Why is argon gas used in light bulbs?
- Argon gas is used inside incandescent light bulbs/globes. Argon gas preserves the filaments from oxidation at high temperature, by displacing oxygen.
Argon Gas Properties – Density of Argon Gas – Argon Gas Density vs Air – What Temperature Does Argon Freeze At?
Argon gas density is about 1.78 kg/m³ (STP) vs air density is about 1.29 kg/m³ (STP).
So, argon gas is 38% denser than air.
The following table show the common argon properties including melting point, boiling point, specific gravity and density of argon:
| Melting point: | -189.37 °C |
| Boiling point: | -185.85°C at 1 atm |
| State at 20°C | Gas |
| Molar mass | 40 g/mol |
| Auto-ignition temperature: | Non-flammable |
| Density (at STP) | 1.784 g/L |
| Relative density, gas (air=1) | 1.38 |
| Specific gravity: | 1.379 |
Argon Gas – TIG Welding & MIG Welding with Argon Gas Near Me – MIG Gas – TIG Gas
Having argon gas nearby is important, as argon gas is the most frequently used inert gas for welding (MIG gas or TIG gas).
Argon gas bottle is the primary TIG welding gas (TIG gas) used as a welding gas – shielding gas for most metals.
Argon gas bottle (argon bottle) is also used for MIG welding aluminium and MIG brazing (MIG welding gas – MIG gas).
Pure CO2 and argon gas and CO2 mixtures are the most common active gases used for MIG welding gas – MIG gas, aside from MIG brazing and aluminium.
Argon gas welding is arc welding.
The gas acts as a welding gas – shielding gas (MIG gas or TIG gas), shielding the weld which is made by a TIG electric arc jumping between a tungsten electrode and the base metal work surface.
MIG welding with argon gas bottle is the most common application for the various argon gas bottle sizes.
A MIG gas mix is frequently referred to as welding gas – shielding gas (MIG gas for MIG welding and include argon, argon gas mixtures, pure CO2 and helium in blended argon gas bottle sizes.
MIG is the acronym for “Metal Inert Gas”.
MIG welding means Metal Inert Gas welding with argon gas (MIG welding gas – MIG gas).
MIG welding is an arc welding process that joins metals by melting them with heat.
Argon Gas Facts
The following are some interesting argon gas facts:
It’s the most abundant noble gas in Earth’s crust and argon gas is the third most abundant gas in the atmosphere, after nitrogen and oxygen. It is also the most abundant noble gas in Earth’s crust.- Nitrogen is the most abundant gas in Earth’s atmosphere, making up approximately 78% of the air. Oxygen is the second most abundant, at about 21%.
- Argon gas is obtained by separating it from the Earth’s atmosphere in a cryogenic Air Separation Unit (ASU).
- The original chemical symbol for argon was “A” but later changed to “Ar”.
- It is number 18 on the periodic table
- The atmosphere contains about 0.9 % of argon.
Does Argon Gas Bottle Have a Shelf Life?
While argon gas doesn’t expire, its usability might be impaired without proper storage and handling of an argon gas bottle (argon bottle).
To ensure this doesn’t happen, an argon gas bottle (argon bottle) containing argon must be stored in cool, dry locations away from direct sunlight.
Is Argon Gas Heavier Than Air?
Yes, argon gas is heavier than air.
Air is composed primarily of nitrogen and oxygen, while argon gas has a higher atomic mass.
So, argon gas molecules are denser than air molecules, causing argon gas to settle and accumulate in lower areas.
Formula for Argon Gas – Argon Formula
The formula for argon gas, argon formula, or argon molecular formula is Ar, with the atomic number 18.
It is a noble gas and is monoatomic.
What Colour is Argon Gas? Colour of Argon Gas
Argon gas has no colour.
Argon gas is colourless, odourless, tasteless and non-toxic.
Argon Gas Temperature: Melting Point for Argon – Boiling Point for Argon
The melting point for argon (argon melting point) is -189.37°C.
The boiling point for argon (argon boiling point) is -185.85°C at 1 atm.
Argon Gas Suppliers Near Me – Argon Gas Bottle Sizes – Great Argon Gas Bottle Prices
We are argon gas suppliers near you.
We provide various argon gas bottle sizes supply, refill and hire with great argon gas bottle prices.
TIG Welding with Argon Welding Gas – TIG Gas
Argon gas bottle (argon bottle) is also used in TIG welding.
TIG welding gas (TIG gas) is typically a mixture of argon gas with helium, hydrogen and/or nitrogen added for better welding speeds and process stability.
TIG is an acronym for “Tungsten Inert Gas”.
TIG welding gas is also used with gas tungsten arc welding (GTAW), using a tungsten electrode and argon welding gas – shielding gas.
TIG welding gases are inert gases used as welding gas – shielding gas for TIG welding process.
Argon gas protects the weld pool from nitrogen absorption and oxidation during TIG welding.
You get improved weld quality and less rework time.
Who Discovered Argon Gas?
1785 – Argon was hypothesised as a component of air by Henry Cavendish.
1882 – New lines in the colour spectrum indicated a new unknown gas within air, based on research by H. F. Newall and W. N. Hartley.
1894 – Lord Rayleigh and Sir William Ramsay first isolated Argon gas from air. To achieve this, they removed the oxygen, carbon dioxide, water, and nitrogen from clean air and deduced argon gas from what remained.
How Did Argon Gas Get its Name?
The name “argon” is derived from the Greek word ἀργός meaning “inactive” or “lazy” as it does not react with other chemicals, because it is an inert gas.
How is Argon Gas Made?
- Argon gas is produced using fractional distillation.
- It is cryogenically separated from the air in a distillation tower.
- The entire installation is known as an Air Separation Unit – ASU.
- It is then stored as a liquid, in an argon gas bottle, for ease and economical transportation.
Industrial gas suppliers in metropolitan areas of Melbourne, Sydney, Brisbane, Gold Coast & Sunshine Coast with argon gas near you.
Frequently Asked Questions – Argon FAQs and Terminology
Argon Welding
Argon welding, mainly known as TIG (Tungsten Inert Gas) welding, makes use of pure argon gas to shield the weld area from atmospheric contamination.
It is electric arc welding using a non-consumable tungsten electrode to melt the workpiece.
A continuous stream of argon gas flows from the torch, covering the arc and molten weld pool, to prevent oxygen and nitrogen from reacting with and weakening the weld.
It creates extremely clean, strong, and precise welds on various metals including aluminium, stainless steel, and titanium with significant welder skill and control.
This is critical for high-quality welds in aerospace, medical, and food industries, when combined with expertise and pure argon for peak results.
MIG – GMAW (Gas Metal Arc Welding) uses Argon in mixtures (with CO2 or Oxygen) for deeper penetration and faster welding, while TIG with pure argon provides cleaner welds.
Pure argon may be more expensive than other gases but offers superior results in many applications.
Good ventilation is necessary, as argon displaces oxygen, creating an asphyxiation risk in confined spaces.
Argon State
Argon state exists in a gaseous form under standard conditions and is a colourless, odourless, and tasteless noble gas , with a molecular weight of about 39.948 grams per mole.
As a noble gas it is chemically inert and does not readily react with other substances.
It is a monatomic gas, meaning it exists as individual atoms (Ar) rather than molecules.
It can be liquefied at very low temperatures, with a boiling point of approximately
−185.8°C (−302.4°F) and a melting point of about −189.3°C (−308.7°F).
It is the third most abundant gas in the Earth’s atmosphere, making up about 0.93% of the atmosphere.
In its solid state, argon state has a face-centered cubic (fcc) crystal structure.
Noble gases - Noble Gas Argon
Noble gases are Group 18 elements from the periodic table.
They include Helium, Neon, Argon, Krypton, Xenon, Radon, and Oganesson.
They are recognised by their full outer electron shells, which makes them very stable with high ionization energy and low electron affinity.
They seldom react because they don’t readily mix with other elements or molecules.
However, heavier ones like Xenon and Radon can form compounds or have specific uses.
Noble gases are mainly unreactive monatomic gases as single atoms, not pairs (like N2 or O2), that are colourless, odourless, tasteless, and have extremely low boiling/melting points.
Uses include lighting (like neon signs), as shielding gases for welding, and cooling, like with liquid helium because of their inertness, amongst other applications.
Noble Gas Elements Symbols and Applications:
- Helium (He): Lightest noble gas, used in lighter-than-air applications and for cooling, typically as liquid helium in cryogenics
- Neon (Ne): Known for red-orange glowing signs
- Argon (Ar): Most abundant noble gas in the atmosphere, used in incandescent light bulbs, windows, and welding
- Krypton (Kr): Used in high-intensity lights and photography
- Xenon (Xe): Used in lasers, high-intensity headlights, and tanning beds
- Radon (Rn): Radioactive, thus posing health risks, whilst being historically used in radiation therapy
- Oganesson (Og): Highly radioactive and synthetic
Electron Arrangement of Argon - Argon Electron Configuration
The electron configuration for argon is 1s²2s²2p⁶3s²3p⁶.
The condensed electron configuration can be written in a condensed form as [Ne]3s²3p⁶.
This indicates argon has 18 electrons arranged in 3 shells, with two electrons in the first shell, eight electrons in the second, and eight electrons in the third or outermost shell.
- Full electron configuration: 1s22s22p63s23p6
- Condensed electron configuration: [Ne]3s23p6
- Shell structure: 2, 8, 8
- Explanation for stability: The outermost (valence) shell is full, with eight electrons. This makes argon a stable noble gas that is not chemically reactive.
Argon Atomic Number
Argon (Ar) has an atomic number of 18 and it’s a noble gas found in Group 18 of the periodic table.
This means each atom of argon contains 18 protons.
It is known for being colourless, odourless, and essentially inert.
Argon Symbol: Ar
Argon Atomic Number: 18
Protons in Argon: 18
Electrons in Argon: 18
Group: 18 (Noble Gases)
Electron Configuration: 3s²3p⁶
Argon - Element of Argon - Argon Element - What is Argon - What is a Argon - Argon Atom - Argon Chemical Element - What is argon element?
Argon (Ar) or element of Argon is a colourless, odourless, inert gas that makes up about 0.934% of Earth’s atmosphere.
The element of Argon is the third most abundant atmospheric gas on Earth.
It is a non-reactive noble gas used in applications requiring a non-reactive atmosphere, such as arc welding, incandescent and fluorescent bulbs, double-paned windows, growing semiconductor crystals, and food packaging.
Due to its inert nature and stable, full outer electron shell, it is mostly unreactive with other elements.
However, compounds can be formed under specific conditions.
Properties
- Element Name: Argon (Ar)
- Description: Colourless, odourless, and tasteless
- Atomic Number: 18
- Atomic Mass: 39.948 g/mol
- Group: 18 (Noble gases)
- State: Gas at room temperature, but can be liquid at very low temperatures
- Density: Its density is heavier than air at 1.78 kg/m³ at 0∘ and 1 atm.
APC - Argon Plasma Coagulation
Argon plasma coagulation (APC) is an endoscopic medical procedure that uses ionized argon gas and an electrical current to cauterize and stop bleeding or treat tissue in the gastrointestinal tract.
The argon gas is ionized, creating a plasma beam that directs heat to the tissue without direct contact, which helps limit tissue damage.
The plasma beam directs heat to the tissue, causing it to coagulate (clotting) or be done away with.
It is a non-contact thermal method of treatment used during procedures like colonoscopies or upper endoscopies to cauterize bleeding lesions, destroy remaining polyp tissue, and treat other conditions.
Number of Protons in Argon
Argon has 18 protons as indicated by its atomic number of 18, as listed on the periodic table.
Conversely, the atomic number of an element is defined by the number of protons in the nucleus of each atom of that element.
A neutral atom of argon also has 18 electrons.
Argon Atomic Number - Atomic Number Argon - Atomic Number of Argon
The argon atomic number is 18, meaning every argon atom has 18 protons in its nucleus.
A neutral Argon atom also has 18 electrons.
Argon is a noble gas with the element symbol Ar and is the third most abundant atmospheric gas on Earth’s.
- Atomic Number: 18
- Element Symbol: Ar
- Protons: 18
- Electrons (in a neutral Argon atom): 18
Argon in
Argon in the Earth’s atmosphere constitutes 0.93% of its volume.
Argon in our atmosphere is the third most plentiful gas, comprising up about 0.93% of its volume.
Argon is used in numerous applications including as a welding gas for shielding, a protective filling in light bulbs, insulation in double paned windows, a preservative atmosphere in food packaging, and a protective atmosphere for maintaining documents.
Argon in cryogenic roles is used in MRI machines and other superconducting magnet applications.
Properties
- Chemical element: Argon has the symbol Ar and an atomic number of 18.
- Noble gas: It is a noble gas, being chemically unreactive under normal conditions, and often described as “lazy” or “inactive”.
Argon in the Periodic Table - Argon Table of Elements - Argon periodic table
Argon is in group 18 (the noble gases) and period 3 of the periodic table, with the symbol Ar, atomic number 18, and relative atomic mass of around 39.95.
It is a colourless, odourless, and chemically inert gas that is the third most abundant gas in Earth’s atmosphere.
Argon’s electron configuration is [Ne]3s23p6
Bohr Rutherford Diagram for Argon
A Bohr-Rutherford diagram for argon displays a nucleus with 18 protons and 22 neutrons, with three electron shells containing 2, 8, and 8 electrons, in turn.
The first shell (closest to the nucleus) holds 2 electrons, the second holds 8, and the third, outermost shell also holds 8 electrons, which makes argon a stable noble gas.
Bohr-Rutherford diagram for argon
Nucleus:
At the center of the diagram is the nucleus containing 18 protons (based on the atomic number of argon) and 22 neutrons (calculated from the mass number of the most common isotope (Argon-40).
Electron Shells:
Three concentric rings, or shells, surround the nucleus, representing the energy levels.
First shell: The innermost ring, closest to the nucleus, holds a maximum of 2 electrons.
Second shell: The middle second ring holds a maximum of 8 electrons.
Third shell: The outermost third ring holds the remaining 8 electrons. This is the valence shell.
Periodic Symbol for Argon
The periodic symbol for argon is Ar. It is a chemical element with atomic number 18 and is classified as a noble gas.
- Periodic Symbol for Argon: Ar
- Atomic Number: 18
- Type: Noble gas
Argon Formula - Formula for Argon Gas
The formula for argon is Ar, representing a single, monatomic atom.
Unlike diatomic gases like oxygen (O2) or nitrogen (N2), argon is a noble gas that does not typically form two-atom molecules.
This is because its outermost electron shell is complete, making it very stable, inert, and unreactive.
- Chemical Formula: Ar
- Atomic Structure: Each molecule of argon gas consists of a single atom.
- Reactivity: Argon is chemically inert, meaning it has a low tendency to form chemical bonds with other elements.
- Common Use: In many applications, such as welding and lighting, monatomic argon gas is used directly.
What is Argon Used For - What is Argon Used For - Argon Uses - Argon Element Uses
What Argon is Used For – What are the Uses for Argon – What is Argon Gas Used For?
Argon is used as a stable, inert gas for numerous industrial, medical, and scientific applications.
Among the most common are shielding gas in arc welding, plasma cutting, and in light bulbs as a filler gas to prevent oxidation.
Its non-reactive inert nature also see it used for creating protective atmospheres in food packaging, wine storage, and for preserving documents and artifacts.
It is also used in medical lasers and double-paned window insulation.
Where is Argon
Argon is found principally in Earth’s atmosphere, where it is the third most plentiful gas at about 0.94%.
It can also be found in smaller measures in the Earth’s crust and sea water.
Argon in the atmosphere is constantly being added to by the radioactive decay of potassium-40, found in the Earth’s crust.
Commercially, argon is separated from air by fractional distillation in an air separation unit (ASU).
Argon Gas Suppliers
Argon gas can be supplied by various companies, including large industrial gas suppliers like ELGAS, Stargas and BOC Australia.
These suppliers offer different options for renting cylinders, with next-day delivery frequently available from some locations.
Argon Atomic Mass - Atomic Mass for Argon
The atomic mass of argon is 39.948 atomic mass units (amu).
This value is an average based on the abundance of its isotopes, with the most common isotope being Argon-40, which makes up about 99.6% of naturally occurring argon.
- Relative atomic mass: 39.948 amu
- Most common isotope: Argon-40, which has a mass number of 40.
- Isotopic abundance: The atomic mass accounts for the different abundances of argon’s isotopes, including Argon-36, Argon-38, and Argon-40.
- Argon is 1.4 times heavier than air, so it displaces air in low lying places.
Is Argon a Metal
No, argon is not a metal. It is a noble gas in Group 18 of the periodic table.
Metals are located on the left side of the periodic table, while nonmetals are on the far right. Argon is on the far right, signifying it is not a metal.
As a noble gas, argon is chemically inert and exists as a colourless, odourless gas at room temperature.
On the other hand, metals are typically solid at room temperature, are good conductors of electricity, and have different chemical properties from argon.
Argon has a full outer shell of electrons, making it very stable and unreactive.
Metals, in contrast, tend to have fewer electrons in their outer shell and readily form chemical bonds.
Argon Gas Bottle Sizes Australia
Common argon gas bottle sizes in Australia include D, E2, and G2 sizes, with capacities of approximately 2.0m3, 4.1m3 and 10.2m3 respectively.
Different suppliers may offer slightly different bottle sizes
Larger and smaller sizes may also be available depending on the supplier and application.
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Argon Gas Bottle Sizes (Argon Bottle Sizes)
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| Argon Gas Bottle Sizes | Height | Diameter | Tare Weight | Argon Gas Bottle Capacity |
| G2 size argon gas bottle | 1460 | 230 | 54 kg | 10.2 m3 |
| E2 size argon gas bottle | 780 | 204 | 24.5 kg | 4.1 m3 |
| D size argon gas bottle | 750 | 170 | 20 kg | 2.0 m3 |
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Actual Argon gas bottle capacity, argon gas cylinder dimensions and tare weights may vary by Argon gas bottle sizes
Copyright © 2019. Elgas Ltd.
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Gas TIG
Argon is the most commonly used inert gas for TIG welding.
It is popular with welders because it can be used on various metals such as mild steel, stainless steel and aluminum.
Argon is also versatile.
An argon and helium mixture can be used in either TIG or MIG welding.
Argon Boiling Point - Boiling Point for Argon
Argon boiling point is approximately −185.8 °C (or 87.3 K or −302.5 °F) at standard atmospheric pressure.
This is the temperature at which liquid argon turns into a gaseous argon.
Liquefied Argon - Liquid Argon
Liquefied argon or liquid argon (often abbreviated as LAR) is a cryogenic, inert, and colourless gas.
Produced from the distillation of air, it boils at -185.9°C, with a density of 1393 kg/m³ at its boiling point.
It is used for TIG and MIG welding, metal processing, freezing, and as a protective atmosphere in industrial and laboratory purposes and as a freezing agent for scientific applications.
Argon Gas Bottle Prices
Argon gas bottle prices in Australia vary broadly, with new full cylinders ranging from about $190 for a small C-size and $470 to over $650 for larger D or E/G sizes.
Refills or exchanges can be around $70-$120 for common sizes.
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“Good order processing and product delivery services.
” – G B Engineering & Design
“When I need gas I just make one phone call and the gas is delivered the next day and as I use direct debit payments are easy.” – Alan S.
“Excellent service and your gas price is very good keep it up thanks” – Victorian Wrought Iron
“I find the phone staff and the delivery driver know their jobs well and everything happens seamlessly.” – Sass Sampling & Storage Sol Pty Ltd
“We are a first time customer as we have changed suppliers and there was an effortless transition.” – Boan Industries
“Very fast and easy to get set up. Delivered the tanks in 24 hours. Thank you.” – Rocket Networks Pty Ltd
“Always great service.. Would highly recommend over Supagas everyday of the week.” – Knowles Cranes Pty Ltd