Do I need a license for the following refills: Argon/CO2, Oxygen, and Acetylene?

Question

Hello!

Question: Do I need a license or some type of proof that I have taken a welding class (I haven't) or can I just go to any place and get a refill for Oxygen, Acetylene (For cutting), and Argon or CO2 (For Welding)? (Anywhere that supplies the product and refill).

(More info): I have a CO2 bottle in the back, Two Acetylene and Oxygen bottles. (Referring to when I run out).

I am a self taught welder. I've been using MIG for about half a year but staying off the gas. I wan't to see what the difference between flux-core and straight wire with gas (What ever that'd be called) (Obviously, with gas will be cleaner in a calm environment). As far as Acetylene/Oxygen cutting, I have been doing my research very well and hoping to try it out soon.

Answer 1

You say you've only ever used that gasless flux-core "booger wire." //facepalm//



Tyler, I'd hesitate to call anything you've been doing with that god-awful crap "welding."



(Technical note: MIG stands for "Metal Inert Gas." Since you haven't been using an inert gas, you're NOT MIG welding! You're using the FCAW process which stands for "Flux Core Arc Welding." )



How much output current does your welder produce? IF you're actually serious about MIG welding you really want a welder that can put out at least 175 amps. (I normally recommend at least 300....)



But to answer your question. No, you don't need any kind of special license or certificate to buy welding gases, generally. Some states may have special rules. You really ought to call a welding supply company in your area.



Since you're just a hobbyist, I'd suggest using 75% Argon + 25% CO2. The maximum thickness you should realistically be MIG welding, considering you probably have a low cost welder, is no thicker than 1/8" or 4mm . Also you need to have a gas flow meter that's designed for argon, with a male coupler. Valves on argon bottles have female connections. You want to use a flow rate of around 35 cuft per hour.



Also remember that cleanliness is always godliness when welding. Best results will always be had when welding on shiny metal. If you don't have an angle grinder I suggest you buy one. Angle grinders can be found for cheap at pawn shops.

Answer 2

Generally welding gases including these are sold with out license. There may be local rules so a phone call to local welding suppliers might be in order.



Please remember however, even oxygen can be very dangerous. These are not recommended for use in your parents basement. If you do not own the bottles, most welding gas suppliers will rent you the tanks for a few cents per day/per tank.



Many of the gas suppliers also have the valves, gages, hoses and hose heads. If your not familiar with the safety proceedures used with gas welding, The internet has lots of resources, try yahoo or google

Answer 3

Oxygen And Acetylene Bottles

Answer 4

No license required. I've been exchanging bottles for years. Some companies will not take other companies' bottles. It depends on the location.