Shielding Gas Estimator
Accurately calculate the volume and cost of shielding gas consumed per part and per batch to ensure accurate job quoting.
Consumption Results
Cost Per Part
$0.00
0.00 CF
Total Batch Cost
$0.00
0.00 CF
Cylinders Required for Batch:
0.0
Shielding Gas Economics
Shielding gas is one of the "invisible" consumables in a weld shop. While the filler wire is obvious, gas is constantly flowing and is rarely accounted for accurately in quotes.
The Pre-Flow Penalty
If you are doing 50 short tack welds, each taking 1 second, with a 3-second pre/post flow cycle: You are using 300% more gas on pre/post flow than on actual welding!
Typical Flow Rates
| Process | CFH (Imperial) | L/min (Metric) |
|---|---|---|
| MIG (Short Arc) | 25 - 35 CFH | 12 - 16 L/min |
| MIG (Spray) | 35 - 50 CFH | 16 - 24 L/min |
| TIG (Standard) | 15 - 20 CFH | 7 - 10 L/min |
| TIG (Large Cup) | 25 - 35 CFH | 12 - 16 L/min |
Pro Tip: More flow does not equal a better weld. Turning the flow rate too high creates turbulence at the nozzle, pulling atmospheric oxygen *into* the weld puddle and causing porosity.