← Glossary
Carbon Dioxide (CO2)
Carbon dioxide (CO2) is a shielding gas in MAG welding that promotes penetration and influences the metal structure. It reduces moisture and prevents corrosion.
CO2 as shielding gas in MAG welding drives penetration and ensures deep, reliable weld-through. But it's not a pure shielding gas: reactions with the weld pool can cause spatter, and the gas mixture must match the material. Too much CO2 makes the weld brittle and can lead to porosity; too little and you lose penetration. So adjust the gas content to the material, and make sure the gas really covers the weld pool – otherwise air pulls in moisture and you get porosity.
AktivgasMAGSchweißgas