Industrial Gases - Argon

Argon makes up 0.93% of the atmosphere. Like helium, this is a monoatomic gas. Argon is a colorless, odorless, inert gas that does not exist in nature other than in the air. It cannot sustain life, but it is highly used in certain industrial applications due to its high level of chemical inertness and the relative ease with which it can be produced.
Argon is used extensively in the incandescent lamp industry for filling light bulbs and fluorescent tubes and for radio vacuum tubes. It also has an essential use as an inert gas shield in arc welding and plasma jet torches.

Applications
Argon being inert finds applications in industries requiring low reactivity with good stability. Following are the common applications for Argon:

• Blanketing
• Purging
• Inserting
• Degasification in Steel Marking
• Lighting Industry
• Shielding Gas in Metal Fabrication
• Analytical Applications

Hazards Identifications
Compressed gas in high concentration may cause asphyxiation. Argon is non-toxix, but may cause suffocation by displacing the oxygen in air.

Handling and Storage
Close valve after each use and when empty. Cylinders must not be recharged except by Or with the concern of owner. Acetylene cylinders should be stored upright and be firmly Secured to prevent falling or being knocked over.
Keep the quantity stored as small as possible.