Question

when using 100 percent \\(\text{co}_2\\) with carbon steel, adding argon ____________ tensile and yield strength.

• increases
• decreases

Explanation:

Analyze the chemical effects of shielding gases

Using the GMAW Shielding Gas Effects knowledge point

Pure carbon dioxide (\(\text{CO}_2\)) is an active gas that causes significant alloy element oxidation (such as silicon and manganese) in the welding arc. When argon is added to \(\text{CO}_2\), the mixture becomes less oxidizing, allowing more of these deoxidizing alloying elements to remain in the weld metal. This retention of alloying elements increases the tensile and yield strength of the weld.

Answer:

• increases (Correct answer)
• decreases