Tungsten is a rare metallic element used for manufacturing gas tungsten arc welding (GTAW) electrodes. The GTAW process relies on tungsten's hardness and high-temperature resistance to carry the welding current to the arc. For a long time, red, 2% thoriated tungsten electrodes were the first choice in TIG welding. In some places they are still considered the best solution for welding with direct current of high-alloy and stainless steels. However, thoriated tungsten electrodes contain thorium, a radioactive material that can pose health and environmental risks at elevated exposure levels, especially during grinding.

Praxair’s ProStar™ series of E3® Tungsten Electrodes offers your metfab shop a long-life solution to the challenges of traditional thoriated electrodes. Through a proprietary blend of three oxides, the ProStar E3 tungsten electrodes maintain stable tip geometry, which means your electrodes will last longer than thoriated electrodes when subjected to the same welding parameters. 

Keeping the Work Flowing

Through a proprietary and unique manufacturing process, the ProStar E3 tungsten electrodes run ~1,650° F cooler at the same energy output, which results in an extended tip life, and ultimately, less replacements and sharpening — saving your operation time and money.

The ProStar E3 series has also been designed to work in both DC and AC processes, so you don’t need to worry about finding the right electrode for the job – Praxair’s tungsten electrodes are all you’ll need. And unlike traditional thoriated electrodes, the ProStar series actually reduces ignition delay over time. While thoriated tungsten electrodes begin to degrade after just 25 starts, the ProStar E3 electrodes ignite faster as they age.
The result? More up-time, which means a more productive – and profitable – shop.

Features and Benefits

• 1,650º F cooler operating temperature – Increased electrode lifespan, more arc-on time
• Stable tip and arc geometry – Reduced ignition delay, significantly reduced electrode wear and less sharpening with the same energy output
• Can be used in both AC and DC processes – Increased productivity while minimizing the number of electrode supplies required. No balling and reduced inclusions in weld, during AC use

Praxair Knows Welding

A safe alternative to traditional thoriated tungsten electrodes, Praxair’s ProStar series of E3® Tungsten Electrodes include a three-oxide blend that helps provide stable tip and arc geometry, reduced ignition delay for TIG Welding. Put the ProStar E# Tungsten Electrodes to work for you. Contact your local Praxair representative or call 1-800-225-8247 to learn more.