AFM 1.5% LANTHANATED - Tungsten Alloys
AFM 1.5% Lanthanated tungsten electrodes which contain 1.3-1.7 wt.-% of dispersed lanthanum oxide (La2O3) for enhanced arc starting and stability, reduced tip erosion rate, and extended operating range. These electrodes can be used as nonradioactive substitutes for 2% thoriated tungsten as the operating characteristics are very similar. Lanthanated tungsten can be used for both dcen and ac applications. Tip color is gold.

AFM 2% CERIATED Tungsten Alloys
AFM 2% Ceriated electrodes are tungsten electrodes containing about two percent cerium oxide, referred to as ceria. The 2% Ceriated electrodes were first introduced into the US market in 1987. Several other grades of this type electrode are commercially practical, including electrodes containing one percent CeO, but only one grade, EWCe-2, has been incorporated in this specification as having commercial significance.

AFM 2% THORIATED Tungsten Alloys
AFM 2% thoriated tungsten electrodes have been designed for direct current applications. They have the thoria content dispersed evenly throughout their entire length. They maintain a sharpened point well, which is desirable for welding steel. They can be used on alternating current work, but a satisfactory balled end, which is desirable for the welding of nonferrous metals, is difficult to maintain.

AFM PURE TUNGSTEN Tungsten Alloys
AFM Pure Tungsten electrodes are unalloyed tungsten electrodes (99.5% tungsten minimum). Their current-carrying capacity is lower than that of other electrodes. They provide good stability when used with alternating current, either balanced wave or continuously high frequency stabilized. They may be used with direct current and also with either argon or helium, or a combination of both, as a shielding gas. They maintain a clean, balled end, which is preferred for aluminum and magnesium welding.