Medical gases are indispensable in healthcare. There are numerous uses for medical gases, especially for respiratory support, anesthesia and diagnostic procedures. Healthcare professionals and facility owners must understand the properties of these medical gases, their administration methods and safety considerations to help protect patients, providers and hospitals.

What are the different types of gases used in hospitals and other healthcare facilities? This article will be your comprehensive guide on the fundamental concepts of medical gases. From the life-sustaining properties of oxygen to the analgesic effects of nitrous oxide, each gas contributes to patient care — in one way, shape or form.

7 Common Medical Gases and Their Uses

Let’s explore the seven commonly used gases in healthcare, their unique applications and safety considerations.

1. Oxygen

Oxygen has numerous life-saving applications in healthcare. It’s crucial in various healthcare settings, including hospitals, emergency rooms and ambulances.

Oxygen is a vital medical gas for patients with respiratory insufficiency or hypoxia. Air and oxygen in medical gas systems also help keep patients alive during surgeries and after major traumas. Additionally, oxygen therapy is used to help improve oxygen levels in the blood and alleviate breathing difficulties.

Medical oxygen can be delivered through a nasal cannula, face masks or ventilators. The delivery method depends on the patient’s condition and the required oxygen concentration. For example, nasal cannulas are commonly used for low-flow oxygen, while masks are suitable for higher concentrations.

While oxygen is essential for life, it should be handled with care. Measures should be taken to prevent combustion, as oxygen supports combustion and can enhance the intensity of fires. Facilities must follow strict safety protocols for storing, handling and administering medical oxygen.

Moreover, the key to medical-grade oxygen is high purity. If it’s contaminated with other gases, it may pose risks to patients. Healthcare facilities must partner with a supplier that can provide high-purity oxygen for their patient’s well-being.

2. Nitrogen 

Nitrogen, a colorless and odorless gas, has various applications in healthcare settings. While it is not typically used on patients, it has multiple uses for medical equipment and support processes.

For instance, nitrogen is commonly used to power pneumatic systems in medical devices. Think of surgical tools and equipment used in diagnostic procedures. Additionally, cryogenic nitrogen can preserve blood samples and other cells for lab examination.

The inert nature of nitrogen makes it suitable for applications where non-reactive gas is needed to avoid chemical reactions. Nitrogen is also used to preserve and pressurize medical gas systems. It can help maintain pressure in storage cylinders to prevent the ingress of contaminants. As a result, it can help stabilize other medical gases, such as oxygen and nitrous oxide.

While nitrogen is inert and non-reactive, it is crucial to handle it with care to prevent asphyxiation in confined spaces. Healthcare facilities must adhere to safety protocols to store, handle and transport nitrogen cylinders.

3. Medical Air

Medical air is a mixture of nitrogen and oxygen, with the oxygen content adjusted to meet therapeutic needs. It is used for various medical purposes, such as providing respiratory support to patients with breathing difficulties.

Medical air is often employed in mechanical ventilation to assist patients with respiratory failure. It can be blended with other gases to reach specific oxygen concentrations. The controlled delivery of medical air helps maintain adequate oxygen levels in the patient’s bloodstream.

Furthermore, medical air is commonly humidified before its administration. This is to prevent the drying of the respiratory mucosa. Humidification is crucial for patients receiving prolonged respiratory support to enhance comfort and minimize potential complications.

4. Carbon Dioxide

Carbon dioxide can be used for insufflation in medical procedures but is especially crucial in respiratory care. End-tidal carbon dioxide monitoring is a non-invasive method used to assess a patient’s ventilatory status. It measures the concentration of carbon dioxide at the end of expiration. This measurement provides valuable information about ventilation and perfusion.

In addition to monitoring, carbon dioxide is used in respiratory therapies. For example, administering a controlled mixture of oxygen and carbon dioxide (carbogen) has been explored for specific medical conditions. Carbon dioxide levels are carefully regulated to gain therapeutic effects without adverse consequences.

While carbon dioxide itself is not typically administered as a therapeutic gas, monitoring its levels is crucial for patient safety. Proper calibration and maintenance of monitoring equipment and adherence to safety guidelines will help provide practitioners with accurate and reliable readings.

5. Helium

Helium is a noble gas known for its low density, making it useful in respiratory therapy. The combination of helium and oxygen (heliox) reduces the density of the gas mixture. This reduction in density makes airflow more efficient in cases of upper airway obstruction or severe respiratory conditions.

Heliox mixtures are especially useful to help treat conditions such as asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease and certain upper airway obstructions.

The use of helium gas in healthcare is generally considered safe. However, facilities using heliox mixtures must adhere to safety guidelines. Proper equipment calibration and staff training are essential to ensure the accurate delivery of heliox therapy.

6. Nitrous Oxide

Nitrous oxide, or “laughing gas,” is a colorless and odorless gas with anesthetic properties. Medical nitrous oxide is commonly used in dental procedures and minor surgical interventions. It induces a state of relaxation and reduces pain perception in patients.

The gas is administered through a mask or nasal hood. This administration methods help with precise concentration control.

While nitrous oxide is generally considered safe, proper ventilation is essential to prevent excessive exposure. Facilities using nitrous oxide must have scavenging systems to capture and remove excess gas. Healthcare facilities must continuously monitor and adhere to the recommended exposure limits to create a safe clinical environment.

7. Nitric Oxide

Nitric oxide is a gas with vasodilatory properties, particularly in the pulmonary circulation. It is used to treat conditions such as persistent pulmonary hypertension in newborns and acute respiratory distress syndrome by improving blood flow in the lungs.

Nitric oxide therapy requires careful monitoring of gas concentrations to prevent toxicity in the body. Facilities must have monitoring systems in place and healthcare providers should be trained to recognize and manage potential adverse effects.

Medical Gas Regulations and Standards

Gas storage and distribution are just as important as understanding the different types of medical gases — they’re a critical aspect of healthcare infrastructure.

For instance, gas cylinders are commonly used for storage and their handling must adhere to specific safety protocols. Facilities often use pipelines for a continuous and efficient medical gas supply to various points of use within healthcare settings.

Ensure your facility adheres to the regulations outlined in 29 CFR 1910.101(b) and Compressed Gas Association’s Pamphlet P-1-1965. For comprehensive safety measures regarding medical gas storage and distribution, familiarize yourself with the Occupational Safety and Health Administration’s (OSHA) standards:

29 CFR 1910.101 for compressed gases. 
29 CFR 1910.103 for hydrogen. 
29 CFR 1910.104 for oxygen. 
29 CFR 1910.105 for nitrous oxide. 

Additional resources include OSHA’s Compressed Gas and Equipment page and the NFPA 99 Health Care Facilities Code.

Meritus Gas Partners Is Your Trusted Medical Gas Solution Provider

Healthcare professionals can rely on Meritus Gas Partners for high-quality medical gases from our trusted suppliers. Our network features reputable partners like Atlas Welding and Ozarc Gas, so you’ll know you’ll receive a seamless supply of medical gases that meet the highest industry standards.

Contact us to learn more about how we can help your healthcare facility’s medical gas needs.

Knowing the types of grinding abrasives used in welding can help you achieve greater precision and quality in your welds. Grinding is an essential part of welding that helps you remove excess metal from the workpiece, smooth the workpiece, and improve the quality, functionality and look of parts. There are various types of grinding abrasives, commonly made from aluminum oxide, ceramic alumina, silicon carbide and other materials.

The Purpose of Grinding Abrasives in Welding

Grinding abrasives serve several important functions during the welding process:

Removing material: Grinding abrasives remove excess materials from metals to prepare them for welding or coating.
Finishing: Grinding abrasives give metal components a polished, smooth finish, which improves the quality and appearance of a weld. These abrasives can also be used to add decorative flourishes to finishes, increasing the weld’s aesthetic value.
Shaping and contouring: Grinding abrasives are important for shaping metal components to their precise dimensions so they meet their required tolerances. These abrasives also help contour metals so that they fit properly with other components and are easy to assemble.
Refining edges: Using a grinding abrasive is an effective way to remove burrs or raised edges from cut metal components. Deburring is important for a uniform profile so that parts fit together properly. Since deburring removes sharp edges, it is also vital for improved safety while working with metal parts.
Improving surface hardness: Some grinding processes can improve a metal’s surface hardness and extend the life span of metal parts.
Relieving internal stress: Grinding and grinding abrasives can help relieve stresses in metal and protect them from cracking.
Enhancing efficiency: High-quality grinding abrasives can remove materials significantly quicker, improving efficiency and facilitating faster project completion times.
Increasing cost-effectiveness: Quality grinding abrasives increase precision and help minimize material waste. Additionally, they are highly effective and have a long useful life, making them cost-effective in the long run.

Common Types of Grinding Abrasives

The most common grinding abrasives include depressed center grinding wheels and see-through fabric discs. Grinding wheels are used for weld grinding, while discs are used for weld blending.

There are several types of abrasive materials used to create grinding wheels and discs, each with its own unique properties and applications. Some of the more common grinding abrasives in welding include the following:

Aluminum oxide: Aluminum oxide is a common abrasive for grinding wheels due to its durability and affordability. Though aluminum oxide provides a sharp cut initially, the grain dulls over time and does not have the cut rate and life span of other grains. Regardless, it provides consistent performance and excellent quality and is used in various grinding wheels, belts and discs. Aluminum oxide is ideal for steel, iron and various ferrous metals.
Ceramic alumina: Ceramic alumina is a premium abrasive commonly used for alloys and hard metals. It is ideal for high-speed grinding and self-sharpens during grinding, providing a sharp cutting action.
Silicon carbide: Silicon carbide is typically harder and sharper than aluminum oxide, making it well-suited for grinding nonferrous metals such as aluminum and stainless steel. Since it produces finer finishes than other abrasives, it is an excellent choice for welds that require precision and high-quality polishing and finishing.
Zirconia alumina: This high-performance abrasive is made from a combination of zirconium oxide and aluminum oxide. This combination makes zirconia alumina an excellent abrasive for heavy grinding and use on hard metals, high-strength alloys and even stainless steel. It is also more durable and longer-lasting than aluminum oxide.
Diamond abrasives: Diamond abrasives are one of the best types of abrasives for grinding extremely hard metals, as diamond is the hardest naturally occurring substance on Earth. These abrasives can be found in grinding wheels and blades and are excellent for high-precision applications.

Considerations for Selecting the Right Abrasive for Welding

Choosing the right welding equipment — including grinding abrasives — is vital for the quality of your welds. The type of materials you grind, the amount of stock you remove and the severity level in grinding action all factor into choosing an abrasive.

Material Type

Some abrasives are better suited to certain metals than others. Aluminum oxide is a good choice for carbon steel, alloy steel, annealed malleable iron, wrought iron and bronze. Silicon carbide is better for grinding gray and chilled iron, aluminum, brass, soft bronze, and similar nonferrous materials.

Grit Size

Different metals and grinding stages require different grit sizes. Some metals, like aluminum, need a finer abrasive, while others, like stainless steel, require a coarser abrasive. Also, consider the material thickness. You may need a coarser abrasive for initial grinding and to remove materials faster from thicker metals. If you have a thinner metal, a coarse grinding abrasive can burn through it.

By considering the application, you can choose the appropriate grit size: 

A coarse-grit abrasive (24 to 36) is best for heavy stock removal.
A medium-grit abrasive (80 to 120) is suited to surface preparation, deburring and blending.
A fine-grit abrasive (120 and above) is best for finishing and polishing.

Tips for Using Grinding Abrasives in Welding

Following these tips can help you use grinding abrasives more effectively: 

Have the right equipment: Use a grinding wheel for heavy material removal or flap discs for blending and finishing welds. 
Use the correct techniques: Technique is key in grinding and welding. You should typically hold a grinder at a 15- to 30-degree angle to the workpiece for maximum contact.
Keep an eye on overheating: Grinding can be an intensive task that heats the metal. Periodically checking the temperature of the metal ensures the workpiece does not overheat and become warped and damaged.
Pay attention to safety: Safety while grinding and welding is your top priority. Always wear the appropriate personal protective equipment and secure the workpiece while grinding to prevent accidents.

Choose Meritus Gas Partners to Support Your Welding Needs

When you understand the types of grinding abrasives used in welding and choose the correct ones for your projects, your grinding and welding tasks become far more efficient. Using the right abrasives for grinding also improves the quality of the workpiece, helping you achieve the best welds possible.

At Meritus Gas Partners, our partners are reliable distributors who provide a range of premium welding solutions and supplies, including high-quality welding abrasives, welding tools, cutting consumables and equipment, and welding gas mixtures. Feel free to visit any of our retail branches or contact us today to learn how we can support your welding projects.

Veterinary clinics play a central role in keeping pets healthy. In addition to typical medical tools like stethoscopes and scales, veterinarians use a range of medical-grade gases to perform procedures and manage pet emergencies. Gases can relax animals during treatments or help them breathe more easily. Understanding the gases used in veterinary care and procedures helps vets provide the best quality care to their animal patients.

What Gases Do Vets Use?

Veterinarians use oxygen, nitrous oxide and anesthesia gases. Animals are often stressed or scared when they’re ill and in unfamiliar places, like the vet clinic. Veterinarians will use gases to make diagnosing and surgical procedures easier and more comfortable.

Each gas has a specific purpose. For example, the role of helium in medical procedures is cryogenic, and it’s used as a support gas. Helium traditionally cools down equipment like MRI machines, which detect abnormalities in animals’ bodies. Anesthesia agents, like isoflurane, keep pets unconscious during a procedure.

Oxygen Administration in Animal Hospitals and Their Services

Oxygen is a common gas used in veterinary medicine. When stressed or dealing with medical emergencies, animals can struggle to breathe properly. They might even enter respiratory failure. Oxygen therapy in medical treatment is common. Vets employ different tools to deliver oxygen into the pet’s body and help their organs work properly.

Veterinarians administer oxygen using different methods depending on the patient’s condition. Oxygen cannulas, masks, oxygen cages and ventilators are all effective. If an animal is suffering from shock or heart failure, it’s critical to get oxygen into its system to avoid complications.

Vet practices need a constant oxygen supply in clinics and hospitals. Cylinders or bulk storage tanks hold compressed oxygen. Every facility must regulate oxygen storage and flow to ensure safe use during medical procedures. If there is an emergency or a system failure, backup systems will help protect animals during care.

The Use of Nitrous Oxide in Veterinary Offices

Nitrous oxide, or laughing gas, is another gas used in vet work. It acts as a mild anesthetic and analgesic. Nitrous oxide helps suppress pain, reduce anxiety and induce relaxation during minor procedures. When used with oxygen or anesthesia gases, it’s an effective sedative for animals undergoing dental work, imaging or surgical preparation.

While nitrous oxide helps relax patients during appointments, it must be handled carefully. Nitrous oxide can displace oxygen in the air, leading to health risks for people and animals. Vet clinics should support their nitrous oxide use with gas removal and leak detection systems.

Anesthesia Gases for Veterinary Procedures

Anesthesia gases are a category of gases used to induce and keep animals unconscious during vet procedures. They also help manage pain and keep patients’ airways open during surgery. When patients inhale anesthesia, it enters their bloodstream from the lungs and travels to the brain, affecting neurotransmitters and nerves.

Common anesthesia gases include:

Isoflurane
Sevoflurane
Nitrous oxide
Halothane

Technicians administer gases through a mask, chamber or endotracheal tube, depending on the animal and their condition. Each patient receives their dose based on health, size and species.

Helium is a common supporting gas in anesthesia. Vets can use a helium-oxygen mixture called heliox to help with respiratory issues. Heliox is used in respiratory therapy to assist animals with airway obstructions or severe respiratory distress. Because helium is less dense than air, heliox can flow more easily through narrowed airways, requiring less effort from the patient.

Ensuring Safety: Gas Storage and Management

While gases are integral to supporting veterinary procedures, they need proper handling. Offices must invest in safe gas storage and management to keep their practices safe.

Anesthesia machines, vaporizers and scavenging systems administer and control gas levels without harming staff. This equipment uses pressure gauges, alarms and flowmeters to maintain delivery levels. If there is a malfunction, sensors should detect it and trigger alarms and safety measures. Investing in the right equipment will help protect your team as they work.

Maintenance is also critical for gas safety. Gas delivery and anesthesia machines must be maintained according to the manufacturer’s recommendations. Make sure your team is performing:

Routine inspections.
Leak testing.
Manufacturer-approved use protocols.
Cleanings as needed.
Calibration.

Contact a Meritus Gas team expert to learn more about proper gas storage and management.

Best Practices for Storing Medical Gases

Use industry-approved medical gas storage, such as tanks and cylinders with secure valve caps. Source your gases from vendors with traceable gas products to avoid impure mixes. Cylinders should always be stored securely and upright to prevent tipping. Make sure all your gases are organized by type to prevent safety hazards or gas mix-ups.

Additionally, your storage areas need clear labeling. To protect workers, post signage indicating the presence of pressurized medical gases. Double-check your storage and signage with local fire codes and safety regulations. 

Preventive Safety Measures

Veterinary offices should have written protocols for all gas-related measures. Outline protocols for cylinder transport, gas handling, leak detection and emergency response. Your staff needs thorough training in identifying hazards, wearing protective equipment and connecting regulators. If procedures are not followed, implement follow-up training. The better your staff training, the more prepared they’ll be to handle hazardous situations.

Vet practices must have emergency preparedness plans in place for unexpected events. Equipment failure and power outages can happen suddenly, risking everyone’s safety. Make sure your office:

Has backup cylinders.
Properly labels gas reserves.
Trains staff on manual operations. 
Has emergency support for its gas supply.

A reliable gas partner can provide you with support. Work with your gas supplier to outline emergency plans and create tailored backup stock. They’ll help you plan contingencies and assess risks so you have an uninterrupted gas supply — even during emergencies.

The Importance of Gas Supply and Management in Veterinary Care

Veterinarians depend on a reliable gas supply and management to provide patients with the necessary care. Oxygen, anesthesia and other medical-grade gases must be available on demand. A disruption in gas availability or quality can compromise an animal’s care. Vet offices must work with trusted sources for high-quality, reliable gas supplies. Choose a provider with traceable gases and a reputation for fast delivery. You need a partner that can support you in providing uninterrupted, high-quality care.

Choose Meritus Gas Partners for Reliable Medical Gas Solutions

Veterinary clinics must have access to a constant supply of quality gases. With Meritus Gas Partners, medical centers can access essential gases and specialty mixtures. We offer a range of high-purity medical gases backed by years of expertise and fast service. Our medical gases meet United States Pharmacopeia and National Formulary standards for safety and quality.

With Meritus Gas Partners’ nationwide network, you can easily find the supply you need. We offer personalized support, on-time deliveries and a deep knowledge of the industry’s gas requirements. Contact us to explore our gas options and get services tailored to your veterinary practice.

Effective packaging is critical for extending the shelf life and quality of packaged products. Among the various packaging methods and techniques available, nitrogen flushing is popular due to its ability to preserve various consumer goods. 

Learn how nitrogen flushing compares to other industrial packaging methods.

What Is Nitrogen Flushing?

Nitrogen flushing is a packaging method that involves displacing the oxygen in a package with nitrogen gas before sealing it. This process creates an inert atmosphere inside the package, which helps prevent oxidation, rancidity and microbial growth.

Nitrogen flushing is used in the food industry to preserve the freshness, flavor and nutritional value of products such as snack foods, nuts, coffee, dairy products, meats and baked goods. The oxygen-free environment created by this method extends the shelf life and quality of food. It is also used in packaging electronics, pharmaceuticals and moisture-sensitive products. 

Nitrogen is non-toxic, non-flammable and does not affect product quality. However, nitrogen flushing requires specialized equipment and a controlled environment, which can increase the cost of packaging in business operations. It may be unsuitable for all product types and less effective for highly porous materials. 

The Role of Nitrogen and Oxygen in Packaging

Nitrogen is an inert gas that makes up about 78% of the Earth’s atmosphere. In product packaging, nitrogen is a neutral filler gas that displaces oxygen, moisture and other gases that degrade product quality. It prevents oxidative reactions that cause discoloration, degradation and oxidation, extending the shelf life and quality of packaged products. 

Oxygen is a highly reactive gas that can cause food spoilage. Oxidation reactions triggered by oxygen can lead to the breakdown of fats, vitamins and other nutrients, resulting in color changes and flavor deterioration. Moreover, oxygen supports the growth of aerobic bacteria, molds and yeasts, which can cause food to spoil rapidly.

Various industrial packaging methods, including vacuum sealing and nitrogen flushing, manipulate the levels of nitrogen, oxygen and other gases to create optimal storage conditions for different products. These methods aim to extend the shelf life of food, preserve nutritional value and maintain the sensory qualities of the packaged food.

Other Industrial Packaging Methods and Techniques

In addition to nitrogen flushing, several other packaging methods extend the shelf life of food and other packaged products. Each consumer goods packaging method has unique advantages, limitations and applications.

Canning

Canning involves sealing products in airtight metal containers and heating them to a specific temperature to destroy microorganisms and enzymes. The process creates a vacuum seal that prevents oxygen from entering the container, extending the product’s shelf life. 

Canning is commonly used for packaging food products such as fruits, vegetables, soups and meats. It is also used to maintain the stability and prevent contamination of industrial products, like paints and chemicals. This method requires high-temperature processing, which can alter the texture, flavor and nutritional value of some products. The canning metal containers can be heavy and unsuitable for all product types.

Vacuum Sealing

Vacuum sealing removes air from a package before sealing it, creating a tight-fitting package that conforms to the product’s shape. This process reduces oxidation and moisture exposure, extending product shelf life. 

Vacuum sealing is commonly used for packaging nuts, coffee, textiles, electronics and industrial components. It is a simple, cost-effective method that helps prevent corrosion, moisture damage and dust contamination. However, vacuum sealing does not provide a complete oxygen barrier. The tight-fitting package can cause compression damage and may not be suitable for delicate or fragile products.

Modified Atmosphere Packaging (MAP)

MAP involves modifying the gas composition inside a package to create an optimal environment for the specific product. The most common gases used in MAP are nitrogen, carbon dioxide and oxygen. The gas mixture is tailored to the product’s storage requirements, helping to extend its shelf life.

MAP is widely used in packaging food, pharmaceuticals, medical devices and electronic components. It helps maintain sterility, prevent oxidation and control moisture levels. However, MAP can be more expensive than other packaging methods and techniques and may not be feasible for all product types.

Active Packaging

Active packaging involves incorporating active components into the packaging material or within the package to enhance product preservation. Active components used include:

Oxygen absorbers
Moisture absorbers
Ethylene absorbers
Antimicrobial agents
Corrosion inhibitors

Besides food packaging, active packaging is used in various industries, including electronics, pharmaceuticals and industrial goods. The active components protect sensitive products from environmental factors that cause degradation, such as oxygen and moisture. However, active packaging components may interact with the product or affect its properties. 

Aseptic Packaging

Aseptic packaging involves sterilizing the product and the packaging material separately and then filling and sealing the package in a sterile environment. This process allows for the packaging of shelf-stable products without preservatives. It’s commonly used in pharmaceutical and medical device industries, where sterility is critical. 

Aseptic packaging ensures products remain free from microbial contamination throughout their shelf life. Maintaining sterility requires specialized equipment and strict process controls, making it expensive.

Contact An Expert

Comparing Nitrogen Flushing to Other Packaging Methods

Nitrogen flushing offers several advantages over other preservation methods, making it the preferred choice for many food production companies and manufacturers.

Shelf Life and Quality of Packaged Products

Nitrogen flushing excels at extending product shelf life while maintaining quality. By creating an oxygen-free environment, nitrogen flushing prevents oxidative deterioration and degradation more effectively than methods like vacuum sealing or active packaging. It results in consumer goods packaging that remains stable and functional for longer periods. 

Cost-Effectiveness

While nitrogen flushing requires specialized equipment and nitrogen gas, it can be a cost-effective preservation method in the long run. The extended shelf life of packaged products achieved through nitrogen flushing reduces waste and allows for more efficient inventory management. Additionally, nitrogen is readily available and less expensive than other packaging gases. 

Environmental Impact

Nitrogen flushing has a lower environmental footprint than some other preservation methods. Nitrogen is a natural and non-toxic gas that does not leave residues in the product or the environment. Additionally, nitrogen-flushed packaging often uses recyclable materials, reducing waste compared to single-use packaging. 

Enhance Product Shelf Life and Quality With Nitrogen From Meritus Gas Partners

Nitrogen flushing is an effective packaging method for preserving product quality and enhancing shelf life. It’s a cost-effective, environmentally friendly option for manufacturers across various industries. When implementing nitrogen flushing for packaging, partnering with a reliable nitrogen gas supplier is critical. Through our network of industrial gas distributors, Meritus Gas Partners provides high-quality nitrogen gas for your packaging needs. Whether you require pure nitrogen or custom gas blends for your packaging, we have the expertise and resources to support your operations.

By choosing Meritus Gas Partners, you gain access to a trusted network of local gas suppliers that combine personalized service with the stability and resources of a larger company. Contact us today to find a nitrogen gas supplier near you and elevate your consumer goods packaging with nitrogen flushing.

The food and beverage industry has undergone significant transformations in recent years. Increased nutritional and sustainability awareness has resulted in a heightened demand for effective and natural food and beverage preservation alternatives. In the food and beverage industry, gas is proving a practical option. Innovative packaging, preservation, cooling and water treatment techniques are critical to meet growing consumer demands.

The United States produced 36,353,023 million cubic feet of natural gases in 2022 alone. If you’re involved in any food and beverage business, using the right gases can revolutionize your operations, providing various efficient and cost-effective options that satisfy consumers and boost your bottom line.

Why Are Gases Important in the Food and Beverage Industry?

The food and beverage industry has enjoyed the benefits of industrial and natural gases for decades. Over the years, customer expectations around the freshness and nutrient quality in packaged foods have changed. Gases continued to ensure high food quality and cost savings for food and beverage manufacturers. Innovations like modified atmosphere packaging (MAP) allow for the preservation of minimally processed foods such as fish, meat and fresh produce.

Gases solve many food and beverage challenges, such as adequate transportation, processing costs and meeting consumer demands. Food industry gas can freeze foods in minutes instead of hours, maintaining their moisture, texture and flavor. They can facilitate the storage and transportation of fragile foods, enhance the texture and taste of many beverages and even provide alternative energy solutions for processing, serving and selling various products.

What Are Food Gases?

Food-grade gases are a category of industrial gas purpose manufactured for the food and beverage industry. They are common in the manufacturing, processing, handling, storage and sterilization of foods and beverages and are subject to stringent government regulations.

As they come into contact with food products, these gases must remain free of contaminants and be classified as high purity to be suitable for food and beverage applications. Although it depends on the specific gas, most food-grade options must be above 99% purity.

Gas in food creation and handling is limited to the following areas: 

Additives: Enhancing the taste or texture of food or drinks. 
MAP: Gases are permitted in packaging to preserve freshness, prevent damage during transit and ease processing constraints. 
Sterilization: Certain gases can sterilize food items without the use of solvents.
Propellents: Gases can help dispense food or beverages from storage vessels, like beer from a keg. 
Freezing and chilling: Food-grade nitrogen and carbon dioxide are available as cryogenic liquids for fast freezing, preserving the nutrients in food, lengthening the shelf life and streamlining processing. 

Liquified Petroleum Gas for Cooking

Aside from food storage, preparation and processing, non-food-grade gases are essential for restaurant owners and hoteliers. Liquified petroleum gas (LPG) is a non-toxic mixture of hydrocarbon gases, the most common being butane and propane. With the right mix of air and LPG, users can ignite the gas for cooking. It’s a growing phenomenon in food and beverage applications.

Compared to biogas, LPG is a clean fuel. It releases fewer pollutants than any fuel except electricity, making it safe for kitchens. It has lower greenhouse gas emissions than many other alternatives. LPG is used on gas stoves, cooktops and hot water systems.

Gas Applications for the Food and Beverage Industry

Gases are common in the food and beverage industry, from the gas in food and drinks to the LPGs used for cooking. Each gas has its own properties and benefits in the food and beverage industry, the most common of which include:

Carbon Dioxide

Carbon dioxide (CO₂) is one of the best-known gases in the food and beverage industry. It’s the fourth most abundant gas in the Earth’s atmosphere and is colorless, odorless, inert and non-toxic. Although best known for carbonating various beverages, it has several other applications. Some of its many uses include: 

Carbonated beverages: CO₂ is highly soluble. It’s often infused into drinks, preventing spoilage during storage and making them fizzy. When it comes into contact with water, it reacts and becomes carbonic acid, giving people a tingling sensation when they take a sip. Carbonic acid also controls the pH levels of certain beverages, such as wine and fruit juice.
Cryogenic cooling: Carbon dioxide food-grade gas is used as a cooling agent, allowing manufacturers to freeze and chill food and beverage products, sealing in their taste and texture for longer. Using CO₂ eliminates the need for potentially harmful chemical preservatives.
Food preservation: Fresh fruits, vegetables and grains are susceptible to pest infestations during storage. Introducing CO₂ into storage facilities can prevent this because it’s deadly to pests at certain levels but non-toxic to humans.
MAP: Aside from pest control, CO₂ can preserve the freshness of fruits and vegetables for extended periods in the MAP and controlled atmosphere packaging (CAP) processes. It prevents oxidation, slowing ripening and preventing mold development.
Meat industry: CO₂ is used to immobilize and stun animals before slaughter. It increases their blood pressure and improves meat quality. After slaughter, it’s often used as a refrigerant. The cooling and freezing process is faster, ensuring better storage and preservation of meats without losing taste or texture. 
Dry ice: Dry ice — made from CO₂ — is often preferred in transporting frozen foods. It evaporates as a gas, whereas regular ice evaporates into water, keeping food dry during transportation. 
Fresh produce: Plants use sunlight, CO₂ and water to grow, and farmers often control CO₂ levels in greenhouses to promote growth. 

Nitrogen

Nitrogen gas (N₂) is ubiquitous in the food and beverage industry, occupying approximately 78% of the Earth’s atmosphere. It’s inexpensive, widely available and inert, making it a chemical-free alternative for several essential processes. There are many uses for nitrogen in food, from preserving freshness to limiting damage during transit. Some of the most common uses for nitrogen in food and beverage applications include: 

MAP: N₂ is used to displace oxygen in food packaging to preserve freshness, protect nutrients and limit microbial growth. It’s commonly used to protect fragile foods like potato chips, inflating the bags to cushion them during transportation.
Aeration: When you aerate certain foods with nitrogen, it creates a specific look at texture, like the tiny bubbles you see in certain chocolate bars. 
Pressurization and beverage dispensing: Pressurized nitrogen is often used to dispense beverages like beer and coffee. Nitrogen bubbles are smaller than CO₂, keeping the carbonation in these beverages and giving them a smooth, creamy texture. Nitro-beers and coffees are increasingly popular due to their unique silky texture. Typical beer gas consists of 75% N₂ and 25% CO₂. 
Beverage processing: N₂ is often used to regulate the fermentation process of high-quality wine, beer and other beverages, enhancing their flavor and aroma. It’s also used for non-alcoholic drinks made from fruits and vegetables.
Cryogenic cooling: Like CO₂, nitrogen plays a significant role in the rapid cryogenic cooling of food products, allowing them to freeze while maintaining their nutritional value. 
Food processing: Various food processing techniques require N₂, including purging, inerting and blanketing — typical applications that displace oxygen with nitrogen gas to control microbial growth, prevent oxidation and enhance the quality of food products. 

Oxygen

Oxygen (O₂) is becoming increasingly popular in the food and beverage industry. It’s an environmentally friendly alternative for many standard options and meets several regulatory standards. Food-grade oxygen has several health benefits and helps maintain the visual appeal of various food products, making them attractive to customers. Some typical uses of O₂ include:

Oxidizing agent: Oxidizing meats can help them maintain their red color, eliminating the gray color that makes them look unappealing before purchase. 
Preservation: O₂ improves the breathing rates and extends the metabolism of fresh fruits and vegetables, retaining their freshness. 
Ozone: O₂ is used to produce ozone in food and beverage applications. Ozone is essential for controlling pest infestations and sterilization in industrial manufacturing. 
Fish breeding and transportation: Fish and seafood farmers can protect their stock against O₂ deficiencies by oxidating their water, ensuring their growth, health, appetite and general well-being. Transporting live fish and shellfish involves placing them in sealed plastic bags with small quantities of water and pure O₂. 
Drinking water: Infusing drinking water with O₂ improves the taste and texture. It’s also an effective wastewater treatment, allowing for effective water cleaning and recycling. 

Hydrogen

Hydrogen gas (H₂) has diverse uses in the food and beverage industry, from food preservation to semi-solid fats. It’s the most abundant element on Earth. Although not as prevalent in food and beverage applications as some other gases, hydrogen uses are diversifying in line with innovative technology like hydrogen fuel cells. Some typical applications for hydrogen include:

Hydrogenation: The hydrogenation process prevents oxidation in oils, ensuring a longer shelf life. Hydrogenated oils have a very high smoking point, making them suitable for frying. The fast food industry uses partially hydrogenated vegetable oils to give baked and fried foods the desired texture and crispiness.
Hydrogen fuel cells: As the name suggests, hydrogen fuel cells use hydrogen fuel to create a chemical reaction that results in electricity. While this process is a sustainable alternative to power generation, fuel cell technology also produces food-grade CO₂, allowing manufacturers to work toward their sustainability goals. Manufacturers can use hydrogen fuel cells to create heat and electrical power while recycling CO₂ into a valuable food-grade product. 

Argon

Argon (Ar) is an inert, water-soluble gas with multiple applications across industries like health care, welding and manufacturing. It’s the third most abundant gas in the air, and essential in the food and beverage industry for the following applications:

Preservation: Argon is often used to displace O₂ in wine barrels to prevent oxidation. As an inert gas, it locks in flavor and freshness during storage. It’s denser than air, settling above the liquid to protect it from souring. The process is popular in the wine bottling process.
MAP: While O₂, N₂ and CO₂ are popular options in MAP, argon can supplement or replace CO₂-N₂ mixtures to enhance the effectiveness of current MAP approaches. 
Beverage processing: Argon is a popular choice because it fulfills many processing needs, from purging and blanketing to flushing and dispensing. 

Helium

Helium (He) is the smallest molecular gas of all the food gases. While it may be less familiar, it remains helpful in the food and beverage industry. Helium’s reduced dimensions allow it to exit containers through minuscule holes, so it’s often used to detect leaks in packaging. 

How to Choose the Right Supplier for the Food and Beverage Industry

Whether you’re well established or entering the food and beverage industry, getting quality food-grade gases is essential. As they’re used in the processing, preparation and storage of food and beverages, they’re subject to considerable scrutiny. You need an experienced and trustworthy supplier to ensure your operational profitability.

Find a Partner Near You

Consumer needs are changing, and increased nutritional awareness is sparking interest in healthy foods and drinks, most of which require food-grade gases to carbonate, preserve, deoxidize, store and transport. Choosing the right food and beverage gas supplier involves several considerations, including after-sale support, timeliness of orders and industry experience. 

If your strategy involves healthy and sustainable options, your supplier should place the same value on contributing to the environment. Ask what steps your potential supplier has taken to minimize environmental impact in their processes. Establishing the availability of the various gases you require for your specific application is also critical, as running low and waiting for orders could result in costly downtime.

The Future of Gases in the Food and Beverage Industry

In a time of increasing health, ethics and sustainability, consumer views are rapidly evolving. The shift in consumer behavior is transforming food and beverage industry operations and allowing them to pay more attention to climate change issues. In line with the shift toward sustainability, regulation changes motivate food and beverage companies to take action and influence positive consumer choices. 

Using gases is vital to successful food and beverage operations, and the future is likely to reveal a shift away from harmful emissions, paving the way for eco-friendly gases. Like many other industries, food and beverage operations stand to benefit from improving energy efficiency, precision and safety. Innovative technology like hydrogen fuel cells could pave the way for additional gas applications. 

Trust Meritus Gas Partners for All Your Food and Beverage Gas Requirements

The food and beverage industry relies on gases for safe transportation and improved product quality. Natural gases support many food and beverage processes, allowing preservative-free and safe beverages while improving product longevity, flavor and appeal. Any business involved in this complex and dynamic industry needs a trusted supplier of specialty gases and food-grade products.

Meritus Gas Partners is a network of independently operated gas and welding supplies distributors positioned to support food and beverage industry demands. Food and beverage gas suppliers have vast experience in providing food-grade gases to businesses nationwide. Our shared commitment to superior customer service and innovation means we provide exceptional local service, ensuring you get your gases when you need them the most.

Feel free to visit your local branch and speak to an expert to learn how we can fulfill your business needs. Alternatively, contact us today, and we’ll be in touch to walk you through the purchasing process and answer any questions.

These emissions contribute to environmental health, impacting climate change and affecting air quality. Thankfully, there are solutions to help mitigate potential adverse effects.

Environmental Impacts of Industrial Gases

Many types of industrial gases can have significant impacts on the environment. Carbon dioxide, methane, nitrous oxide and fluorinated gases are known as greenhouse gases because they trap heat in our atmosphere. This can contribute to rising global temperatures, which are believed to cause more severe weather events and challenges to biodiversity. The responsible use of industrial gases is essential to mitigate these risks. 

Climate Change and Effects of Greenhouse Gases

Carbon dioxide and methane are the two main gases thought to be driving climate change. When fossil fuels, waste or trees are burned, carbon dioxide enters the atmosphere and creates a warming effect by trapping heat. 

Each gas has a different level of impact. To compare them, greenhouse gas emissions are recorded in metric tons of CO2 equivalent. To calculate the impact of other gases, you multiply their emissions by the gas’s global warming potential (GWP). This helps to understand which greenhouse gases stay in our atmosphere longest, absorb the most energy and warm the Earth more. 

Fluorinated gases have some of the highest GWPs but make a much smaller quantity of emissions compared with CO2.

The main solutions for reducing the impact of carbon dioxide and methane include:

Increase energy efficiency: By insulating buildings and using more fuel-efficient machines, vehicles and appliances, energy use and CO2 emissions can be reduced.
Carbon capture: This involves capturing CO2 when it is emitted, piping it away, and injecting it safely underground, where it can be stored securely. 
Upgrade equipment: As methane is emitted during various stages of producing, storing and using natural gas, equipment can be upgraded and retrofitted with better seals to reduce leaks, for example. 

Reduced Air Quality

Air quality is affected by certain toxic emissions from sulfur dioxide and nitrogen oxides, resulting from industrial gases and processes. These can cause harmful particulate matter and ground-level ozone to form. The environmental impacts can affect human health.

Carbon monoxide also impacts air quality by causing ground-level ozone and smog. Proper handling of liquid petroleum gas prevents excessive carbon monoxide exposure for workers. 

Other solutions to improve air quality include:

Switch fuels: Burning fuel is a leading way in which nitrous oxide is emitted. Switching fuels can help reduce these emissions. 
Reduce consumption: In the medical industry, health providers could switch from a central piped system to smaller portable containers, which reduces leaks, wastage and overall consumption.
Modern pollution controls: Under the Clean Air Act, new industrial facilities must have good pollution controls as a standard. This includes capture devices and ways of offsetting emissions reductions.

Ozone Depletion 

Most fluorinated gas emissions are entirely from human activity and include aerosols, solvents and refrigerants. Their environmental impact depends on their type. 

Originally, industries used chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs) to replace toxic refrigerants. However, CFCs depleted the Earth’s ozone layer, which protects the planet from harmful ultraviolet (UV) rays. Enter hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs), which are now the standard for refrigeration and cooling because they do not cause ozone depletion. However, HFCs have a particularly high GWP. 

Since the 2020 American Innovation and Manufacturing (AIM) Act, the amount of HFCs produced and consumed has dropped to help meet a reduction target of 85% below baseline levels by 2035.

Solutions to the use of HFCs include:

Use sustainable alternatives: These include hydrofluoroolefins (HFOs), which have zero ozone depletion potential and a much lower GWP, or natural refrigerants like isobutane or carbon dioxide, which are cost-effective and more energy-efficient. 
Capture methods: Fluorinated gas emissions can be captured and stored using metal-organic frameworks.

Increased Acid Rain

When industrial gases, like sulfur dioxide and nitrogen oxides, are emitted, they react with chemicals to form acids, which mix with water and fall to the ground as acid rain. While rain is naturally slightly acidic at about 5.6 pH, acid rain tends to have a pH of between 4.2 and 4.4, and this increased acidity can affect human health as well as plants and wildlife. 

Acid rain can cause tree leaves to turn brown and die, making them less able to cope with extreme temperatures. Mitigating the effects of acid rain includes strategies such as:

Complying with legislation: The Clean Air Act capped sulfur dioxide and nitrogen oxide emission levels in the power sector, reducing wet sulfate deposition — a primary indicator of acid rain — by more than 70% between 1989 and 2022.
Pollution control technology: Vehicle catalytic converters help reduce exhaust emissions, including nitrous oxide. 

More Solutions for the Sustainable Use of Industrial Gas

As technology evolves, so do the best practices for using industrial gases effectively and sustainably. 

Other solutions you can use to manage the environmental impact of industrial gas emissions include:

Use renewable energy: Switch from other parts of your operations, including electricity generation. Consider installing solar panels to reduce your reliance on the grid and fossil fuel emissions from electricity generation.
Order gas efficiently: Opt for systems that maximize gas efficiency for your business. This may involve reducing the number of disposable cylinders you use by choosing a bulk industrial gas supply instead. 
Experiment with green chemistry: Develop cleaner, more sustainable processes, for example, using nitrogen flushing for packaging because it is natural, nontoxic and has a lower footprint than other preservation methods. 
Conduct a life cycle assessment: Use a life cycle assessment to calculate the footprint of the fuels and industrial gases your business uses. 
Convert waste gases: A future solution could be in converting waste industrial gases to repurpose them for fuel and other resources. For example, converting waste carbon monoxide into hydrogen using a water gas shift reaction creates a carbon-free fuel. 

Get Started With Meritus Gas Partners Today

Industrial gases, from carbon dioxide to propane, play a crucial part in your operations. With proper management, your business can mitigate much of the negative effects these gases can have on our planet.

When you partner with Meritus Gas Partners, you gain access to a wealth of local expertise and technical support so you can find the most efficient solutions for your business. You can find quality industrial gases, from acetylene to sulfur hexafluoride, at one of our trusted partners near you.

Are you ready to get started? Contact us online with any questions or to request a quote!

Various industries use the welding process to create structures, repair metal objects and build machines, and shielding gases have become a necessary component in welding. By understanding shielding gas basics, you can make informed decisions when choosing an appropriate gas for your welding processes.

Understanding Shielding Gases

Metals can react with other elements in the air during the welding process, potentially leading to weak or flawed welds. That’s where the use of shielding gases comes in.

What Is a Shielding Gas?

Shielding gases are the inert or semi-inert gases that protect the weld area from oxygen, water vapor and other harmful atmospheric gases that could potentially damage the weld. Also known as noble gases, these gases are odorless, colorless and chemically unreactive with other elements. Essentially, they serve as a protective barrier to maintain a stable environment for the weld.

Semi-inert gases are active shield gases. These gases have some reactive properties but are generally stable and safe to use. If used in large quantities, they can damage the weld. But when used in controlled quantities, they can come together to improve the quality of the weld.

The Science of Welding: Elements and Reactions

Air comprises 78% nitrogen (N2), 21% oxygen (O2), 0.9% argon (Ar) and a combination of other gases. All these elements have the potential to act as a contaminant in the weld zone. Without anything to preserve this zone, the following reactions happen:

The welding arc generates heat, which acts as a catalyst.
The catalyst allows for chemical processes in and around the weld puddle.
The hot thermal energy breaks down moisture, breaking free hydrogen (H2) and O2.
More oxygen — a reactive gas — is available in the immediate surrounding air.
Chemical interactions take place between the hot weld pool and contaminating gases.
Atmospheric oxygen oxidizes the metal, transforming it into an oxide that’s hard to weld.
H2 creates tiny discontinuities called porosity in welds.

The Effect of Shielding Gas on Weld Quality

Shielding gases create a barrier around the weld, preventing its exposure to atmospheric gases that could cause porosity, excessive spatter and other defects in the welding process. They also possess the following properties:

Non-flammable: The welding area remains safe, even with a hot arc.
Heat dissipation: Shielding gases channel heat away from the weld bead.
Thermally stable: Shielding gases help to minimize spatter during welding.
Oxidation prevention: Their unreactive properties prevent oxidation, ensuring clean welds and enhancing weld quality.

Choosing the Right Shielding Gas and Flow Rate

Choosing the right shielding gas, as well as the correct gas flow rate, requires extensive research of the type of welding you’re doing. 

Contact a Partner for Shielding Gases

Basic Gas Types

Here’s what you need to know about the six basic types of shielding gases used in welding:

Argon: As an inert gas, argon stays stable when used at higher temperatures. Argon pushes other gases away from the welding puddle. It also provides easier starts with alternating current applications with longer welding arcs at low voltages. In pure form, Argon is best used when welding non-ferrous metals, such as aluminum, magnesium or titanium.
Helium: Helium (He) is an inert gas that provides a broader penetration profile, which works best when welding thick materials. Helium creates a hotter arc, which allows for faster travel and high productivity rates. Like argon, pure helium is typically used with non-ferrous metals and stainless steel.
Hydrogen: Typically, hydrogen is the element you are trying to get out of your weld pool. If used incorrectly, it can cause weld porosity. However, hydrogen is a semi-inert gas often used with other gases in high temperature applications to increase arc stability and weld bead performance.
Oxygen: Like hydrogen, oxygen is generally used in combination with other gases. Oxygen is a reactive gas that improves weld pool fluidity, penetration and arc stability. It can only be used with ferrous metals due to its oxidation properties.
Carbon dioxide: This is one of the most common reactive gases used in welding. Carbon dioxide (CO2) is the only element that can be used in a pure form without adding an inert gas. It creates deep weld penetration that’s ideal for working with thick materials. However, carbon dioxide produces a lot of spatter, fumes and shakier arcs.
Nitrogen: Like other semi-inert gases, nitrogen is best used when combined with other gases. Nitrogen increases arc stability and weld penetration. Gas blends containing nitrogen can increase mechanical properties and prevent pitting corrosion.

Three-Part Blends

Three-part blends are combinations of different gases in specific ratios to create a shielding gas tailored for particular welding applications. Each gas in the blend serves a purpose to enhance the welding process and product being worked on. Some benefits of three-part blends include:

Improved weld penetration: Three-part blends can enhance weld penetration to ensure a stronger bond between the metals being welded.
Reduced spatter: Shielding gas blends help reduce spatter during the welding process, which leads to more precise and cleaner welding work.
Enhanced arc stability: Combining gases can promote a stable welding arc, making it easier to control. This results in better weld quality.
Ease of use: Due to enhanced arc stability, using three-part blends is easy and allows for more variations in setting parameters.
Increased productivity: Three-part blends allow you to be more productive and efficient by using them on several different types of materials. Therefore, it also increases the level of profitability.

Various three-part blends exist, but they generally consist of argon mixed with carbon dioxide and oxygen. The type of blend you use will depend on the type of welding job.

Ar/CO2/O2: This is a versatile blend mainly used in gas metal arc welding (GMAW) on carbon steel and stainless steel. Argon is suited for thin materials due to its low thermal conductivity. Carbon dioxide increases penetration while oxygen adds to arc stability.
Ar/He/CO2: This blend increases heat transfer better than pure argon, resulting in a higher-quality weld. It’s best for GMAW on stainless steel or flux-cored arc welding (FCAW) on carbon steel and stainless steel.
He/Ar/CO2: Blends with more helium promote short-circuit transfers while the argon and carbon dioxide help with stabilization. Often referred to as tri-mix, this mixture is often used for GMAW on stainless steel.
Ar/CO2/H2: To improve arc stability, low amounts of carbon dioxide and hydrogen are added to argon for metal inert gas (MIG) welding on stainless steel.

Shielding Gas Flow Rate

The flow rate of shielding gas refers to the speed at which the gas is delivered to the welding area during a welding process. Maintaining the right flow rate is important to ensure the weld pool is shielded properly.

If the flow rate is too low, there may not be enough gas to protect the weld from contamination.
If the flow rate is too high, it can cause turbulence and disrupt the shielding gas coverage.

Both these scenarios affect the quality of the weld in different ways. That’s why welders adjust the flow rate based on the type of welding process, materials being welded, air dynamics and the weld joint size. For example, larger electrodes may require higher flow rates. It’s about balancing their efficiency with the protection of the welding area.

How to Choose the Right Gas and Flow Rate for Optimal Results

No one shielding gas fits all welding projects. The shielding gas composition, combined with adjustments to process parameters such as gas flow rate, will impact the weld.

Compatibility: The right gas blend should be compatible with the type of metal. Fully inert gases are best for aluminum, copper and nickel-based alloys, while both argon or blends containing oxidizing components can work on ferrous alloys.
Capability: Gas blends and flow rates affect the operational capability of welding differently. Materials that are easier to weld, like steel, need lower gas flow rates than stainless steel. A low shielding gas flow rate can also increase the hardness and brittleness of titanium. In comparison, gas blends containing lighter gases like helium need higher flow rates to reduce the possibility of porosity.
Safety: Certain gas blends require safety precautions to handle and store them safely.
Cost: Finding a gas blend that works for you means achieving a balance between high-quality welding and cost-effectiveness.

Contact Meritus Gas Partners for Your Shielding Gas Needs

With decades of experience in shielding gas and welding applications, we are confident we can be your trusted partner for everything. From supplying the appropriate shielding gas and troubleshooting equipment to providing customized solutions, we have products suitable for your industry needs. Contact us today for your shielding gas requirements.