Author: Tyler O'Brien

Tyler O'Brien | 7 minutes | 02/26/2026

What Is Gas Stratification?

Gas stratification happens when different gases separate into distinct layers based on their density – like oil and water, but invisible and potentially deadly. You won’t see it happening. But CO2 might be pooling at ankle level while your ceiling-mounted detector reads normal. Why Do Gases Separate Into Layers? Gases stratify because heavier molecules sink …

Tyler O'Brien | 5 minutes | 02/20/2026

How Do You Dispose of Dry Ice?

The safest way to dispose of dry ice is to let it sublimate in a well-ventilated area away from people and confined spaces. Never throw it in the trash, down the sink, or seal it in a container. Dry ice disposal isn’t complicated, but doing it wrong can create serious safety issues. WestAir supplies dry …

Tyler O'Brien | 6 minutes | 10/31/2025

Dry Ice vs Regular Ice: What’s the Difference?

The main difference between dry ice and regular ice is that dry ice is frozen CO2 that sublimates at -78.5°C (-109°F) without leaving any liquid behind, while regular ice is frozen water that melts at 0°C (32°F) into puddles. Dry ice is typically better for long-distance shipments, while regular ice works best for everyday cooling.   …

Tyler O'Brien | 7 minutes | 10/31/2025

How Does a Helium Leak Detector Work?

A helium leak detector uses a mass spectrometer to sort gas molecules by weight, isolating helium atoms that escape through microscopic leaks and converting them into measurable electrical signals that pinpoint failures down to 10⁻¹² millibar-liters per second (mbar·L/s). The magic happens when helium’s tiny atoms sneak through cracks that stop everything else, while the …

Tyler O'Brien | 6 minutes | 10/23/2025

What Is an Oxidizing Gas?

An oxidizing gas is any gas that can cause or contribute to the combustion of other materials more than air does, generally by providing oxygen or other oxidizing substances. According to OSHA, these gases demonstrate an oxidizing power greater than 23.5% as determined by standardized testing methods. In this guide, we’ll explore the key characteristics …

Tyler O'Brien | 6 minutes | 10/07/2025

What Is a Corrosive Gas?

A corrosive gas is a chemical substance in gaseous form that can cause visible destruction or permanent damage to living tissue, metals, and other materials through direct chemical action. These effects occur through acidic reactions, caustic reactions, and oxidation processes, making them some of the most hazardous materials in industrial settings. In this guide, we’ll …

Tyler O'Brien | 6 minutes | 09/15/2025

How to Store Dry Ice

Storing dry ice safely requires specialized insulated containers with proper venting, adequate ventilation systems, and strict safety protocols to prevent carbon dioxide buildup. The extreme temperature of -78.5°C (-109.3°F) and continuous sublimation process create unique storage challenges – so container selection, atmospheric monitoring, and personnel protection are all very important. In this guide, we’ll explore …

Tyler O'Brien | 10 minutes | 09/15/2025

Working in Confined Spaces: Managing Atmospheric Hazards

Confined spaces are where essential tasks happen—maintaining pipelines, cleaning tanks, repairing utility lines underground. But the conditions can be some of the most hazardous on any job site. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, 1,030 workers died from occupational injuries involving a confined space from 2011 to 2018. Over that period, 126 workers died …

Tyler O'Brien | 6 minutes | 09/15/2025

How to Store CO₂

The best way to store CO₂ is upright in a cool, dry, well-ventilated area below 70°F, with tanks and cylinders secured by chains or straps to prevent tipping. Whether you’re managing a single cylinder or an entire inventory, proper storage prevents dangerous pressure buildup, product loss, and safety incidents. WestAir provides carbon dioxide to its …

Tyler O'Brien | 3 minutes | 09/15/2025

Is Nitrous Oxide Flammable?

Nitrous oxide (N₂O) is not flammable on its own, but it acts as a powerful oxidizer that supports combustion and can create explosive conditions when mixed with flammable materials. This makes it more dangerous than some other non-flammable gases. WestAir supplies nitrous oxide across California and Arizona. Why Is Nitrous Oxide Dangerous Despite Being Non-Flammable? …

Tyler O'Brien | 7 minutes | 09/04/2025

How Much Nitrogen Does Corn Need?

Corn typically needs 180-250 pounds of nitrogen per acre, or about 1 pound per bushel of expected yield. Your exact rate depends on yield goals, soil organic matter, previous crops, and manure history. WestAir supplies gas for crop farming across California and Arizona. What Factors Determine How Much Nitrogen Your Corn Needs? Your corn’s nitrogen …

Tyler O'Brien | 5 minutes | 08/29/2025

What Happens If You MIG Weld Without Gas?

MIG welding without gas causes poor weld quality due to oxidation and contamination. The absence of shielding gas allows air to reach the weld, creating porosity, weak joints, and excessive spatter. Flux-cored wire is the primary substitute for shielding gas. It offers a viable gasless alternative by generating its own protective shielding. In this guide, …