Rare Earth Tungsten Electrode

Rare earth tungsten electrodes – i.e. cerium, lanthanum or thorium – ignite better and the arc burns more stable than with pure tungsten. The addition ensures that the electrode tip holds its shape longer and you have less trouble with the arc in TIG welding. If the electrode is dirty or you use the wrong type for your material, that directly shows in poor ignition and pores in the weld. So: keep the electrode clean, grind the tip properly, and choose the right type for your application, then it'll work.