Argon gasified is used as a protective environment for welding, cutting, and melting active liquid metals and alloys, aluminum, aluminum-based alloys, magnesium alloys, stainless chromium-nickel heat-resistant alloys, and various grades of alloyed steels after gasification. In the production of double-glazed windows and other products, argon is utilized as an insulating gas, enhancing thermal insulation efficiency.

Historical Background

The discovery of argon was prompted by the observed deviation of nitrogen density from air density in 1892 by John Strutt, known as Lord Rayleigh. In 1894, William and John Ramsay isolated from atmospheric nitrogen a gas possessing chemical inertness (Greek “Argys” – inactive, non-reactive). After the discovery of other inert gases, they were grouped together in a separate zero group of the periodic table, now commonly referred to as Group 18.

Industry and Metallurgy:

• for atmosphere control in furnaces during thermal treatment of metals. It helps prevent oxidation and provides favorable conditions for metal processing
• in processes of argon-oxygen decarburization of unrefined high-chromium steel, which helps reduce chromium oxidation
• used as a shielding gas during welding of metal parts to avoid oxidation and ensure high-quality welded joints

Food Industry:

• in winemaking, argon can be used to fill bottles during wine storage, preserving their taste and aroma
• Argon can be used to create a protective atmosphere in packaging for storing food products such as snacks, dried fruits, and other items

Technology and Science:

• argon lasers are used in medicine, scientific research, and industry for various tasks including cutting, welding, and marking
• argon can be used to modify polymer materials, enhancing their properties
• in superconductor research, argon is used as a coolant to achieve the low temperatures necessary for superconducting properties
• can be used to create a protective atmosphere during the production of nanomaterials
• in scientific research, argon is used to alter environmental conditions and study material properties, including high-temperature reactions

An example of labeling cylinders with gaseous argon

Argon is packaged in cylinders with volumes of 50 liters and 40 liters. It is also possible to fill smaller cylinders corresponding to the gas type. To meet medium consumption needs and optimize production time, argon can be supplied in gasified form in monoblocks and bundles containing 10 or 12 cylinders.

• Argon is non-toxic and non-explosive, but it poses a danger to life: inhaling argon causes immediate loss of consciousness, and death occurs within a few minutes. In a mixture of argon with other gases or in a mixture of argon with oxygen with an oxygen volume fraction in the mixture of less than 19%, oxygen deficiency develops, and with a significant decrease in oxygen content, asphyxia occurs.
• Gaseous argon is heavier than air and can accumulate in poorly ventilated areas near the floor and in pits, as well as in the internal volumes of equipment intended for the production, storage, and transportation of gaseous and liquid argon. This reduces the oxygen content in the air, leading to oxygen deficiency, and with a significant decrease in oxygen content, to asphyxia, loss of consciousness, and death.
• In areas where gaseous argon can accumulate, it is necessary to monitor the oxygen content in the air using automatic or manual devices with a device for remote air sampling. The oxygen volume fraction in the air should be at least 19%.
• When working in an atmosphere of argon, it is necessary to use an isolating oxygen apparatus or a hose respirator.
• The operation of cylinders filled with gaseous argon should be carried out in accordance with the construction and safe operation rules for pressure vessels approved by the State Mining and Industrial Supervision.