Choose your tungsten electrode according to its colour code, the base metal and the TIG current type — AC or DC. This table compares green, grey, purple, gold and blue electrodes for TIG welding steel, stainless steel, aluminium and other metals.

Polarity: steel, stainless steel, copper, nickel and titanium are generally welded using DCEN (DC−); aluminium and magnesium use AC. Always follow the TIG machine and electrode manufacturer’s instructions.

Enter the cylinder capacity and current pressure, the gas flow rate and your welding wire parameters. The calculation estimates how long the cylinder will supply gas at this flow rate and how many kilograms of wire could theoretically be fed during that time.

The table gives practical starting ranges for indoor work without significant draughts. Adjust the flow for nozzle size, torch distance, current, joint geometry and ambient conditions.

Important: excessive gas flow does not improve protection — it can cause turbulence and draw ambient air into the weld zone. In draughty conditions, use a screen first, then increase the flow moderately if needed.