CO2 vs. C25

admin

I have always used 100% CO2 when Mig welding. When I bought my new Mig today the dealer told me that that was an outdated practice and that I should use C25. Does anybody have any pros and cons on this subject? Thanks in advance.Bruce
Reply:I usuallly use a mix of gases for my mig- I seem to get better welds, with less spatter that sticks less when I do.  I use whatever mix the guys at the welding store stock- I think it might be a 75/25 co2/argon mix, but I am not sure. Some gases run hotter, others work better with specific steels. Many people just use Co2 cause it is the cheapest, but I have found the time saved in cleanup more than pays for the more expensive gas. But depends on what you are making.Why not try a tank of each, and then decide which you like better?My welding store will swap out tanks like that free whenever I want. Or course, I have spent a few wheelbarrows full of money there, but I think they do it for everyone.
Reply:Both have their uses. Co2 will run hotter and give better penetration, esp with the 120v machines. C-25 is a better mix for sheet metal. I use it for everything but alu. and stainless.Don