Author: Tyler O'Brien

Tyler O'Brien | 4 minutes | 07/24/2025

What Is Supercritical CO2?

Supercritical CO2 is carbon dioxide held at or above its critical temperature (31.1°C) and critical pressure (73.8 bar), where it behaves as both a gas and a liquid. In this state, it has high solvating power and is used in processes like decaffeination, extraction, and cleaning. In this article, you’ll learn the science behind how …

Tyler O'Brien | 7 minutes | 07/22/2025

How Does Atomic Absorption Spectroscopy Work?

Atomic absorption spectroscopy (AAS) works by measuring the concentration of elements in a sample through the absorption of light by atoms in the gas phase. This invaluable analytical technique is used for elemental analysis across numerous industries, from environmental monitoring to pharmaceutical testing. When specific wavelengths of light pass through a cloud of atoms, some …

Tyler O'Brien | 5 minutes | 07/22/2025

Is Welding Oxygen the Same as Medical Oxygen?

Welding oxygen and medical oxygen are not the same – they differ in regulatory oversight, handling procedures, and contamination controls. While both types typically exceed 99% purity, medical oxygen undergoes stringent FDA regulation as a prescription drug, while welding oxygen follows industrial standards. In this article, we’ll explore the critical differences between these gases. We’ll …

Tyler O'Brien | 7 minutes | 07/21/2025

What Is Enhanced Oil Recovery?

Enhanced Oil Recovery (EOR) is a set of sophisticated techniques used to extract additional oil from reservoirs after primary and secondary recovery methods have been exhausted. These advanced processes can significantly increase the amount of oil recovered from mature fields, extending their productive life and maximizing resource utilization. For industries relying on consistent oil supplies, …

Tyler O'Brien | 4 minutes | 07/18/2025

What Is Hydrogen Chloride Used For?

Hydrogen chloride (HCl) is used as a fundamental chemical in manufacturing processes, metal treatment, food production, and water management systems. Its acidic properties and chemical reactivity enable diverse industrial applications,  so many products we encounter daily wouldn’t be available without it. When dissolved in water, hydrogen chloride forms hydrochloric acid, which further expands its usability. …

Tyler O'Brien | 3 minutes | 07/18/2025

What Is Carbon Monoxide Used For?

Carbon monoxide (CO) is a crucial industrial gas used extensively in chemical manufacturing, metallurgy, and various technological applications. Its versatility makes it indispensable in modern industrial processes. In this guide, you’ll learn about the main industrial use cases of carbon monoxide in more detail. We’ll also explain how the gas is used in innovative technologies …

Tyler O'Brien | 3 minutes | 07/17/2025

What Is Gas Chromatography Used For?

Gas chromatography is used to separate, identify, and measure different compounds within a mixture. This versatile technique serves numerous industries, from pharmaceutical manufacturing to environmental monitoring. This guide outlines the main use cases of gas chromatography to show you how widespread this method is. We’ll then go over some of the most compelling benefits that …

Tyler O'Brien | 3 minutes | 07/17/2025

Can You TIG Weld with 75% Argon and 25% CO2? 

No, you should not TIG weld with 75% Argon and 25% CO2 because the CO2 creates oxidation, spatter, and unstable arc conditions that compromise weld quality. Using 100% argon is recommended for TIG welding most materials. Why Is CO2 Problematic in TIG Welding? Carbon dioxide is fundamentally incompatible with TIG welding because it’s an active …

Tyler O'Brien | 4 minutes | 07/17/2025

What Is the Best Gas for TIG Welding Stainless Steel?

The best gas for TIG welding stainless steel is generally 100% argon. It provides a stable arc, clean welds, and excellent shielding with minimal spatter. However, there are specific situations where pure argon may not be your best option for TIG welding stainless steel.  Below, we will explore when to use pure argon – and …

Tyler O'Brien | 3 minutes | 07/17/2025

CO2 vs Argon for MIG Welding Steel

For MIG welding steel, a mix of argon and CO₂ generally delivers the best overall results, combining the clean arc of argon with the deeper penetration and lower cost of CO₂. But the right mix depends on what you’re welding, and sometimes pure CO₂ is the smarter call. Here’s a quick overview: Application Recommended Gas …

Tyler O'Brien | 3 minutes | 07/11/2025

Can CO₂ Tanks Explode?

CO₂ tanks can explode if exposed to extreme heat, physical damage, or over-pressurization. While these incidents are relatively rare, they can result in serious injuries, property damage, and even fatalities. In this guide, we’ll explore the main causes of CO₂ tank explosions. We’ll also show you some real-world incidents that highlight these risks and discuss …

Tyler O'Brien | 5 minutes | 07/10/2025

Why Do Rockets Use Hydrogen Fuel?

Rockets use hydrogen fuel because it delivers the highest specific impulse (efficiency) of any chemical propellant, producing more thrust per pound than any other fuel. In this guide, we’ll explore why hydrogen has become the preferred fuel for many space missions. You’ll learn why its unique properties make it indispensable for modern rocketry. WestAir supplies …