Education Archives

Tyler O'Brien | 4 minutes | 05/08/2025

How to Store CO2

CO2 tanks and cylinders should be stored upright in a well-ventilated, cool, and dry area away from heat sources and direct sunlight. They must also be secured to prevent tipping and keep protective valve caps on when not in use. In this guide, we’ll explore these best practices for storing CO2 tanks and cylinders in …

Lawrence Haynes | 5 minutes | 05/08/2025

Is All CO2 Food Grade?

No, not all carbon dioxide (CO2) is food grade. CO2 must meet specific purity and quality standards to be considered food grade and safe for consumption in food and beverage applications. In this guide, we’ll explore the key differences between food-grade and industrial CO2, regulatory requirements. You’ll also learn why using the right grade matters …

Tyler O'Brien | 6 minutes | 05/08/2025

What Gases Are Used in Meat Packaging?

The most commonly used gases in meat packaging are carbon dioxide (CO2), oxygen (O2), nitrogen (N2), and sometimes carbon monoxide (CO). These gases are combined in specific mixtures through a process called Modified Atmosphere Packaging (MAP). In this guide, we’ll explore how these industrial gases work together to preserve meat while meeting industry standards and …

Tyler O'Brien | 6 minutes | 05/07/2025

What Is Reduced Oxygen Packaging?

Reduced Oxygen Packaging (ROP) is a food preservation method that removes or reduces oxygen from food packaging to extend shelf life and maintain product quality. It creates an environment with oxygen levels below 21%, which inhibits the growth of aerobic bacteria, yeast, and molds that cause food spoilage.In this article, we’ll explain how reduced oxygen …

Lawrence Haynes | 4 minutes | 05/07/2025

What Is Oxygen Used For?

Oxygen is used in medical therapy, industrial manufacturing, metal fabrication, and chemical production. It constitutes about 21% of Earth’s atmosphere and serves as the cornerstone of many healthcare, manufacturing, and environmental management processes. In this article, we’ll explore the most important uses of oxygen gas to show you how various industries rely on this essential …

Lawrence Haynes | 4 minutes | 05/07/2025

Is Oxygen Reactive?

Yes, oxygen is highly reactive, particularly as a powerful oxidizing agent due to its electronic structure and high electronegativity. In this article, we’ll explore the chemistry behind oxygen’s reactivity. You’ll learn how it behaves differently in its various forms, after which we’ll cover its critical applications in industrial, chemical, and biological processes. Understanding Oxygen’s Reactive …

Lawrence Haynes | 3 minutes | 05/06/2025

Does Argon Gas Go Bad?

No, argon gas does not go bad because it is an inert noble gas that remains chemically stable indefinitely. Still, several factors can affect its usability and performance in industrial settings. In this guide, we’ll explain argon’s indefinite shelf life and other properties that call for careful storage and handling. We’ll also cover some problems …

Tyler O'Brien | 5 minutes | 05/06/2025

What Is CO2 Used for in Restaurants?

Carbon dioxide (CO2) is used in restaurants mainly for carbonating beverages, dispensing beer, preserving food, and fire suppression. These uses make CO2 an essential gas in the food service industry, helping businesses deliver quality products while ensuring proper preservation. In this article, we’ll explore the key applications of CO2 in restaurant settings in more detail. …

Tyler O'Brien | 4 minutes | 05/05/2025

What Is Medical Grade Oxygen?

Medical grade oxygen is a pharmaceutical-grade gas that typically contains at least 99.0% pure oxygen, though USP standards allow for certain medical applications to use oxygen concentrations between 90% and 99% at the bedside. It must meet strict FDA regulations and include severely limited contaminants to ensure patient safety. Unlike industrial oxygen, medical grade oxygen …

Nick Vasco | 5 minutes | 05/02/2025

Does Helium Displace Oxygen?

Yes, helium displaces oxygen. Being lighter than air, helium rises and, in enclosed spaces with poor ventilation, can rapidly displace oxygen and create oxygen-deficient atmospheres. In poorly ventilated areas, this can lead to asphyxiation due to lack of breathable oxygen. When inhaled, helium replaces the oxygen in your lungs, potentially leading to oxygen deprivation and …

Tyler O'Brien | 4 minutes | 05/01/2025

Is CO2 an Inert Gas?

Carbon dioxide (CO2) is generally considered an inert gas under normal conditions, but it might become reactive at high temperatures or when mixed with certain chemicals. In this article, we’ll explore the inert nature of carbon dioxide in more detail. We’ll cover: Understanding CO2’s Chemical Nature Carbon dioxide has a stable molecular structure with double …

Tyler O'Brien | 5 minutes | 04/30/2025

Is CO2 Flammable?

Carbon dioxide (CO2) is not flammable, and it doesn’t contribute to combustion. On the contrary – CO2 is one of the most widely used fire suppression agents in industrial and commercial settings. In this guide, we’ll explore: The Science Behind CO2’s Non-Flammability Carbon dioxide is a completely oxidized carbon compound, meaning it has already undergone …

Nick Vasco | 3 minutes | 04/30/2025

What Is Xenon Gas Used For?

Xenon gas is used in high-intensity lighting, such as car headlights, movie projectors, and flash lamps. It is also used in ion propulsion systems for spacecraft and in medical imaging, including anesthesia and radiology. Its inert nature makes it ideal for controlled, high-energy applications. In this guide, you’ll learn about the key uses of xenon …

Nick Vasco | 3 minutes | 04/30/2025

What Is Krypton Gas Used For?

Krypton gas is mainly used for lighting, including halogen bulbs and fluorescent lights. It is also added to double-glazed windows for increased insulation, and its isotopes can be used to diagnose various diseases. This guide explores the most common use cases of krypton gas across industries. Krypton for Lighting Applications Krypton is commonly used in …

Nick Vasco | 3 minutes | 04/30/2025

Why Is Helium Used in MRI Machines?

Discover how helium powers MRI technology and why it's irreplaceable due to its cooling effect. Learn about safety innovations and supply management.

Nick Vasco | 5 minutes | 04/30/2025

What Are the Uses of Nitrogen?

Discover the most common uses of nitrogen across industries: food preservation, manufacturing, healthcare, and more.

Lawrence Haynes | 5 minutes | 04/29/2025

How Does Modified Atmosphere Packaging Protect Foods?

Modified atmosphere packaging (MAP) protects foods by replacing the air inside packaging with a controlled mixture of gases that inhibits microbial growth, prevents oxidation, and maintains product freshness for longer periods. The exact mechanism depends on the gases used, with oxygen, nitrogen, and CO2 being the main ones. In this article, we’ll explore how MAP …

Lawrence Haynes | 7 minutes | 04/28/2025

What is Modified Atmosphere Packaging?

Modified Atmosphere Packaging (MAP) is a food preservation technique that replaces the air inside a package with a carefully controlled mixture of gases to extend shelf life and maintain product quality. It slows spoilage by creating an environment that inhibits microbial growth and oxidation. In this guide, we’ll explore: How Modified Atmosphere Packaging Works Modified …

Marco Balmer | 7 minutes | 04/25/2025

How Does Enhanced Oil Recovery Work?

Enhanced Oil Recovery (EOR) works by injecting substances into oil reservoirs to extract additional crude oil that remains after primary and secondary recovery methods have been exhausted. This advanced technique can increase oil recovery from 20-40% to an impressive 30-60% of the reservoir’s original oil in place. EOR encompasses three method types: Each method alters …

Tyler O'Brien | 5 minutes | 04/23/2025

Why Is Compressed Air So Expensive?

Compressed air is expensive mainly because it requires significant energy to produce. Energy costs account for 70-80% of the total lifetime expense of a compressed air system. This “fourth utility” in manufacturing facilities often goes unnoticed on balance sheets – despite being 7-8 times more expensive than electricity on a per-unit basis. In this guide, …

Lawrence Haynes | 5 minutes | 04/22/2025

How Long Does Compressed Air Last?

Compressed air cans typically last 7-10 years on the shelf when properly stored and offer 300-1000 sprays of usage depending on can size and spray pattern. The exact longevity is affected by many factors, such as: This guide explores the lifespan of compressed air in more detail to explain precisely how long your cans should …

Marco Balmer | 5 minutes | 04/17/2025

Is Compressed Air Dangerous?

Yes, compressed air is dangerous and can cause serious injuries and even death when mishandled. The specific hazards range from physical injuries and internal damage to hearing loss and equipment-related accidents. The risks aren’t always obvious until an accident occurs, so proper awareness and safety protocols are essential. To help you avoid incidents, this guide …

Nick Vasco | 5 minutes | 04/17/2025

How is Nitrogen Stored?

Nitrogen is stored as a compressed gas in high-pressure cylinders or as a liquid in cryogenic tanks at −196°C (−320.8°F). Cryogenic tanks are particularly useful for large-scale storage, while cylinders are often used for smaller quantities of nitrogen gas. This guide covers all you need to know about the main nitrogen storage solutions. We’ll cover …

Nick Vasco | 4 minutes | 04/17/2025

Is Helium Reactive?

No, helium is not reactive – it’s a noble gas with a full outer electron shell. Helium’s stable configuration prevents it from forming chemical bonds with other elements under normal conditions. In this guide, you’ll learn more about what makes helium non-reactive. We’ll then cover its main applications, guidelines for safe handling, and environmental interactions. …

Nick Vasco | 4 minutes | 04/16/2025

Is Oxygen Flammable?

No, oxygen is not flammable, but it makes other materials burn much faster and more intensely. This guide explores oxygen’s role in combustion. You’ll also learn how to handle this gas safely across different industrial and medical uses. The Science Behind Oxygen and Combustion Oxygen acts as an oxidizer, not a fuel. This means it …

Nick Vasco | 6 minutes | 04/15/2025

How to Check Compressed Air Quality

The specific process of checking compressed air quality largely depends on the contaminant you’re testing for. Different methods are outlined in the ISO 8573 standard, which suggests the most effective practices. In this guide, we’ll go over different testing methodologies to help you choose the right ones. We’ll then cover the importance of a regular …

Tyler O'Brien | 6 minutes | 04/14/2025

What Is Compressed Air Made Of?

Compressed air is made of largely the same components as atmospheric air: The only difference is that compressed air comes in a more condensed form. Still, the quality and composition of compressed air directly impact equipment performance, product quality, and operational efficiency in industrial settings. This guide explains what makes up compressed air in more …

Lawrence Haynes | 6 minutes | 04/11/2025

Is Sulfur Hexafluoride Safe?

Sulfur hexafluoride (SF6) is generally considered non-toxic and biologically inert under normal conditions, which makes it safe for many industrial and medical uses. Still, its safety profile changes significantly in certain situations, particularly at high temperatures or concentrations. While the properties of SF6 make it valuable across industries, they also call for specific safety considerations. …

Lawrence Haynes | 5 minutes | 04/09/2025

What Is Sulfur Hexafluoride Used For?

Sulfur hexafluoride (SF6) is commonly used as an electrical insulator in high-voltage equipment. Other use cases include: This colorless, odorless, non-toxic gas has become indispensable due to its unique properties, and this guide will explain why this is the case. You’ll learn how SF6 is used across industries, after which we’ll touch on its environmental …

Nick Vasco | 4 minutes | 04/07/2025

What Is Liquid CO2 Used For?

Explore the diverse applications of liquid CO2, from food production to chemical manufacturing. Learn how this versatile substance powers various sectors.

Nick Vasco | 3 minutes | 04/07/2025

Is Helium Flammable?

No, helium is not flammable. As a noble gas, helium is chemically inert and non-combustible, which makes it one of the safest industrial gases. Helium also doesn’t support the combustion of other flammable gases, which contributes to its strong safety profile. In this guide, we explain the science behind helium’s non-flammable nature. We’ll then discuss …

Nick Vasco | 3 minutes | 04/07/2025

What Are the Industrial Uses of Carbon Dioxide?

Carbon dioxide (CO2) is mainly used in food and beverage production, manufacturing, and healthcare. This guide discusses the key applications of carbon dioxide in more detail. You’ll learn how it can benefit your operations, whether you’re involved in welding, trying to extend the shelf life of food and drink products, or flash-freezing biological samples, to …

Marco Balmer | 8 minutes | 04/07/2025

What Gas Is Released in the SMAW Process?

The Shielded Metal Arc Welding (SMAW) process releases various gases, including: These protective gases are produced by the decomposition of the electrode’s flux coating during welding. They shield the weld pool from atmospheric contamination while enabling a strong, clean weld. Unlike other welding methods that require external gas tanks, SMAW generates its own shielding atmosphere …

Nick Vasco | 4 minutes | 04/04/2025

Argon Gas Medical Uses

Argon gas is used in many medical processes and procedures, from controlling bleeding during surgeries to treating eye conditions. This noble gas has become an indispensable tool in modern medicine due to its outstanding versatility. To explain why this is the case, this article will show you how argon’s unique properties enrich many medical applications. …

Tyler O'Brien | 7 minutes | 04/03/2025

How to Store Oxygen and Acetylene Cylinders

Oxygen and acetylene cylinder storage requires: Improper storage can lead to serious hazards like fires, explosions, and potential injury or death. That’s why understanding the right storage guidelines is the key to safe and responsible use. In this guide, you’ll learn precisely how to store oxygen and acetylene cylinders in a way that minimizes the …

Nick Vasco | 3 minutes | 04/02/2025

What Is Argon Used For?

Discover the essential applications of argon gas in manufacturing, medicine, and beyond. Learn how this versatile element supports cutting-edge processes.

Nick Vasco | 4 minutes | 04/02/2025

What Gases Are Used in Neon Signs?

Neon signs mainly use neon and argon gases, though mercury can be used to provide a broader range of colors. Whether you’re going for a classic glow or a bold modern effect, this guide will help you choose the right gas for your needs. We’ll break down how each gas influences the color, brightness, and …

Nick Vasco | 4 minutes | 04/01/2025

What Gas is Used in Modified Atmosphere Packaging?

Modified Atmosphere Packaging (MAP) typically uses three gases: nitrogen, carbon dioxide, and oxygen. These gases are used in different combinations to extend food shelf life and maintain product quality. In this guide, you’ll learn about different gas mixtures and which products they’re used for. We’ll also cover some lesser-known but important gases, after which you’ll …

Lawrence Haynes | 7 minutes | 04/01/2025

What is Medical Air?

Medical air is a specialized compressed gas used in healthcare settings that offers a clean, breathable gas mixture for various clinical applications. It’s an essential component in modern healthcare facilities, which must meet stringent purity standards for patient treatment and medical devices. In this guide, you’ll learn what medical air is, how it’s produced, and …

Lawrence Haynes | 6 minutes | 03/28/2025

Medical Air vs Oxygen: What’s the Difference?

The main difference between medical air and oxygen is that medical air mimics atmospheric air composition (21% oxygen, 78% nitrogen), while medical oxygen provides high-purity oxygen (87-100%). This fundamental distinction drives their specific uses in healthcare environments. In this guide, we’ll explain how this one property results in drastically different uses, delivery systems, and other …

Marco Balmer | 5 minutes | 03/27/2025

What is 75/25 Welding Gas?

75/25 welding gas is a shielding gas mixture consisting of 75% argon and 25% carbon dioxide (CO2) that’s widely used in MIG (Metal Inert Gas) welding applications. It offers a balance between performance and cost-effectiveness for welding mild steel. The specific ratio offers several advantages over single-component gases while maintaining affordability for regular industrial use. …

Nick Vasco | 6 minutes | 03/26/2025

How Long Does Dry Ice Last When Shipping?

Dry ice typically lasts between 24-72 hours when shipping, depending on: This solid form of carbon dioxide is the preferred cooling method for shipping temperature-sensitive items that need to remain frozen during transit. Whether you’re shipping perishable foods, biological samples, or pharmaceuticals, knowing how long your dry ice will last ensures your products arrive in …

Tyler O'Brien | 7 minutes | 03/24/2025

MIG Welding Gas Settings: Best Flow Rates & Mixtures

The optimal MIG welding gas flow rate for mild steel indoors with no draft is 10-15 CFH (cubic feet per hour), while other metals and conditions require different settings. Proper gas settings are crucial for creating strong, clean welds without defects like porosity or contamination. Understanding the correct gas flow rates and mixtures for your …

Lawrence Haynes | 4 minutes | 03/21/2025

What Gas Is Used for Leak Detection?

Helium is the most widely used gas for leak detection in industrial applications, though several other gases can be used depending on specific testing requirements. The choice of gas primarily depends on three factors: This guide breaks down the most popular leak detection gases based on these criteria. We’ll also discuss the available detection methods …

Nick Vasco | 4 minutes | 03/20/2025

How to Increase the Shelf Life of Food Products

Modified Atmosphere Packaging (MAP) is the most common way to increase the shelf life of food products, though other methods like cryogenic freezing and high-pressure packaging (HPP) can be used as advanced techniques when MAP does not suffice. This guide will explore the key benefits of different techniques to help you choose the right one. …

Nick Vasco | 5 minutes | 03/20/2025

What Is Nitrogen Purging?

Discover the basics of nitrogen purging: safety benefits, methods, and best practices to follow. Learn how to approach the purging process safely.

Nick Vasco | 4 minutes | 03/20/2025

How Cold is Liquid Nitrogen?

The temperature of liquid nitrogen is -196°C (-321°F) at its boiling point. For reference, -89.2°C is the coldest temperature ever recorded at ground level on Earth! (In Antarctica, unsurprisingly.) Liquid nitrogen’s extremely low temperature makes it one of the most commonly used cryogenic fluids in various industrial and medical processes, from freeze-grinding materials to preserving …

Marco Balmer | 4 minutes | 03/19/2025

What is a Tracer Gas?

A tracer gas is a specialized gas used in non-destructive testing to detect leaks and evaluate airflow patterns in different systems and environments. It’s essential for maintaining safety, efficiency, and quality control across industries. This guide will teach you all you need to know about tracer gases, most notably: Tip: Check out WestAir’s gas safety solutions. Understanding …

Nick Vasco | 3 minutes | 03/18/2025

Is Nitrogen Flammable (And How To Handle It Safely)?

Learn whether nitrogen is flammable and discover its main industrial uses and key safety practices. Explore nitrogen’s key plant and pipeline applications.

Tyler O'Brien | 4 minutes | 03/18/2025

How Does a Helium Leak Detector Work?

A helium leak detector uses mass spectrometry to identify and measure helium gas escaping from system leaks. This precise technology can detect extremely small leaks by analyzing the presence of helium atoms, which makes it invaluable across industries. This guide explores the cutting-edge mechanism behind helium leak detection to explain precisely how it works. You’ll …

Lawrence Haynes | 3 minutes | 03/17/2025

What is Isobutylene Used For?

Isobutylene is widely used in polymer production, fuel additives, and chemical manufacturing. This colorless, flammable hydrocarbon is crucial for creating many everyday products. In this guide, we explore the key uses of isobutylene on a deeper level. You’ll learn precisely how this gas is used and why it’s such a good choice for various applications. …

Lawrence Haynes | 3 minutes | 03/14/2025

What is Nitric Oxide Used For?

Nitric oxide is used extensively in medical treatments, industrial processes, and scientific research. Its specific applications range from treating respiratory conditions to enhancing manufacturing processes. To help you familiarize yourself with the many use cases of this versatile gas, our article will break them down in more detail. We’ll also discuss the key safety guidelines …

Nick Vasco | 4 minutes | 03/13/2025

How to Measure Carbonation in Beer

Measuring carbonation in beer involves determining the volume of dissolved carbon dioxide compared to the volume of liquid beer, typically expressed as volumes of CO2. This process requires specialized equipment and an understanding of basic scientific principles, which you’ll learn about in this guide. We’ll cover both the common and advanced methods so that you …

Marco Balmer | 3 minutes | 03/11/2025

How to Improve Soil Fertility

The key to improving soil fertility lies in maintaining a balanced ecosystem of nutrients, organic matter, and beneficial microorganisms. For best results, it’s best to combine natural practices with a scientific understanding of soil composition. In this guide, we’ll cover both aspects by discussing the science behind soil health and outlining some of the key …

Tyler O'Brien | 3 minutes | 03/10/2025

What Is Anhydrous Ammonia?

Anhydrous ammonia (NH3) is a chemical compound consisting of one part nitrogen and three parts hydrogen. It’s a colorless gas with a pungent odor that serves as a cornerstone in various industrial applications. In this guide, you’ll learn everything you need to know about anhydrous ammonia, most notably: Chemical Properties and Physical Characteristics The term …

Lawrence Haynes | 3 minutes | 03/07/2025

What Is the Role of Ethylene in Fruit Ripening?

Ethylene is the primary trigger for fruit ripening that controls various aspects of the maturation process, from color development to texture changes. Its presence and proper management are crucial for food industry professionals looking to maintain optimal product quality during storage and transportation. This guide will show you precisely how ethylene impacts the ripening process. …

Marco Balmer | 3 minutes | 03/05/2025

Does Fertilizer Have Nitrogen?

Yes, most fertilizers contain nitrogen – it’s one of the most essential nutrients for plant growth and development. Modern fertilizers typically contain between 26% and 32% nitrogen, with some specialized formulations containing up to 82% nitrogen. This guide explores the crucial role of nitrogen in fertilizing solutions. You’ll also learn about the key types of …

Nick Vasco | 4 minutes | 03/04/2025

How to Detect a Propane Leak

A propane leak can be detected through its distinctive rotten egg or skunk-like smell. Additional methods include performing a bubble test on connections and using specialized leak detection equipment. As quick detection and proper responses are crucial for preventing dangerous situations, this guide covers the most effective methods for spotting a propane leak. You’ll then …

Nick Vasco | 3 minutes | 03/03/2025

Where Does Hydrogen Fuel Come From?

Hydrogen fuel mainly comes from two main sources: steam methane reforming of natural gas and water electrolysis. These production methods, along with several emerging technologies, form the backbone of global hydrogen fuel production. This guide explains how these methods work alongside their pros and cons. We’ll then show you some lesser-known ways to obtain hydrogen …

Nick Vasco | 3 minutes | 02/28/2025

What is Green Hydrogen?

Green hydrogen is a type of hydrogen produced through electrolysis powered by renewable energy sources. This process results in zero greenhouse gas emissions throughout the material’s lifecycle. This clean energy carrier is becoming increasingly popular in industrial processes because it offers sustainable solutions for manufacturing operations. To explain the growing shift to green hydrogen, this …

Nick Vasco | 3 minutes | 02/27/2025

Does Hydrogen Conduct Electricity?

Hydrogen does not conduct electricity under normal conditions. Still, there’s more to the story than this short answer, as hydrogen’s properties can drastically change at specific pressure levels. In this guide, you’ll learn everything you should know about hydrogen’s ability to conduct electricity. We’ll also touch on the practical implications of the material’s changes in …

Nick Vasco | 3 minutes | 02/26/2025

What Is Liquid Oxygen Used For?

Liquid oxygen is an industrial and medical material that powers everything from hospital ventilators to rocket engines. Its ability to be stored compactly while providing high-purity oxygen makes it invaluable across sectors. This guide covers some of the most popular uses of liquid oxygen. You’ll learn about its benefits in different processes so that you …

Nick Vasco | 4 minutes | 02/25/2025

Can Oxygen and Acetylene Be Stored Together?

No, oxygen and acetylene cylinders cannot be stored together due to considerable safety risks. These gases must be separated by either a minimum distance of 20 feet or a five-foot-high fire-rated wall to prevent potentially catastrophic incidents. In this guide, you’ll learn why these safety measures must be in place. We’ll then cover the additional …

Nick Vasco | 3 minutes | 02/21/2025

What Is Liquid Helium Used For?

Liquid helium is used in various industrial, medical, and scientific processes. This is mainly due to its unique ability to maintain extremely low temperatures of -452°F (-269°C). This remarkable liquid powers some of the most advanced technologies we use today, from medical imaging to quantum computing. In this guide, you’ll learn exactly why this is …

Nick Vasco | 3 minutes | 02/21/2025

What is Process Piping?

Process piping is an interconnected system of pipes and tubes designed to transport materials like fluids, gases, and fine particulate matter throughout industrial facilities. This critical infrastructure is the backbone of many manufacturing and processing operations across various industries. This guide takes a closer look at process piping to outline everything you should know about …

Nick Vasco | 3 minutes | 02/20/2025

What Is Compressed Air Used For?

Compressed air is used for many industrial processes, manufacturing operations, and specialized applications across virtually every sector. From powering pneumatic tools to ensuring precise automation control, compressed air is an indispensable component that many consider the fourth utility alongside electricity, natural gas, and water. In this guide, we explore the most common uses of compressed …

Nick Vasco | 3 minutes | 02/20/2025

Propane vs Natural Gas

Propane and natural gas are fuel sources with unique characteristics that affect their industrial and commercial applications. Their key differences lie in: These differences make each option better suited for specific uses. In this guide, we’ll put them head to head so that you can see which fuel source is right for your needs. Tip: …

Nick Vasco | 3 minutes | 02/19/2025

Is Acetylene Flammable?

Yes, acetylene is highly flammable and one of the most hazardous industrial gases due to its specific chemical properties and wide flammability range. This colorless gas requires careful handling and strict safety protocols in industrial applications. In this guide, you’ll learn about acetylene’s flammability range so that you can approach its use accordingly. We’ll then …

Nick Vasco | 3 minutes | 02/19/2025

Is Acetylene Gas Explosive?

Yes, acetylene gas is highly explosive and requires careful handling due to its chemical properties. Its use requires strict safety protocols that prevent potentially dangerous situations. In this guide, we explain what makes acetylene so highly explosive. We’ll then show you how to prioritize safety when using this gas to get the most out of …

Nick Vasco | 3 minutes | 02/18/2025

What is Acetylene Used For?

Acetylene is primarily used for welding, metal fabrication, and chemical manufacturing, though it also has various specialized applications. Its unique properties and high flame temperature make it a valuable resource across industries. In this guide, we explore the most common uses of acetylene to show you the many ways you can leverage it. We’ll then …

Nick Vasco | 3 minutes | 02/17/2025

What Is Helium Used for in Hospitals?

In modern healthcare, helium is used for MRI machines, respiratory therapy, and various medical procedures. Its unique properties make it irreplaceable in several hospital applications. This guide covers some of the most popular use cases to explain how widespread and indispensable helium is. We’ll also discuss how to manage and conserve this valuable material effectively. …

Nick Vasco | 3 minutes | 02/14/2025

What is Liquid Nitrogen?

Liquid nitrogen is a cryogenic fluid form of nitrogen that exists at extremely low temperatures of -196°C (-321°F). This colorless, odorless liquid plays a crucial role in various industries, from food processing to healthcare and manufacturing. In this guide, we cover all the basics of liquid nitrogen, including: Tip: Check out WestAir’s nitrogen. Understanding Liquid …

Nick Vasco | 3 minutes | 02/13/2025

What Is Deuterium Gas Used For?

Deuterium gas is a stable isotope of hydrogen used in various industrial settings, from nuclear fusion to semiconductor manufacturing. This versatile gas is crucial in advancing technology and scientific research across multiple sectors. In this guide, we’ll explore some of deuterium’s main uses in more detail. You’ll learn exactly how it benefits different industries, after …

Nick Vasco | 3 minutes | 02/12/2025

Is Nitrogen Inert?

Nitrogen (N2) is considered inert under normal conditions due to its extremely stable molecular structure and resistance to chemical reactions. Still, a complete answer requires important context and nuance to fully understand nitrogen’s behavior and applications. To show you everything you should know about nitrogen and its properties, this guide will cover: Tip: Check out …

Nick Vasco | 3 minutes | 02/11/2025

Does Propane Freeze?

Propane freezes at an extremely low temperature of -306.4°F (-188°C), so it’s virtually impossible for it to freeze under normal atmospheric conditions. Still, cold weather can significantly impact propane systems and their performance. In this guide, we explain how propane behaves as temperatures drop. You’ll then learn how to properly manage a propane system during …

Nick Vasco | 3 minutes | 02/11/2025

Can Propane Be Used Indoors?

Propane can be safely used indoors – but only with proper equipment, ventilation, and safety measures in place. This clean-burning fuel powers many indoor applications across industrial and commercial settings. In this guide, we go over those applications and discuss all the necessary safety precautions and compliance requirements you must meet when using propane indoors. …

Nick Vasco | 4 minutes | 02/10/2025

How is Propane Transported?

Propane is transported through various methods, such as: Each method is specifically designed to ensure safe and efficient delivery to end users. The right transportation method depends on factors like distance, quantity, and specific customer requirements. To help you understand the main propane transportation approaches in more detail, this guide covers all the basics you …

Nick Vasco | 3 minutes | 02/10/2025

Is Carbon Dioxide Toxic?

Carbon dioxide can become toxic at elevated concentrations, though it’s generally safe at normal atmospheric levels. The toxicity of CO2 mainly depends on its concentration and exposure duration. This guide breaks down carbon dioxide toxicity levels to highlight those at which the gas can be hazardous. We’ll also cover the main industrial applications of CO2 …

Nick Vasco | 3 minutes | 02/07/2025

What is Inerting?

Inerting is a safety process where inert gases are introduced into confined spaces to displace oxygen and prevent unwanted combustion or explosive reactions. This vital procedure helps maintain safety across various industries, from aviation to chemical processing. In this guide, you’ll learn all you need to know about inerting: The Fundamentals of Inerting and Why …

Nick Vasco | 3 minutes | 02/06/2025

What is Nitrogen Blanketing?

Nitrogen blanketing (also known as tank blanketing or tank padding) is a critical industrial process where nitrogen gas fills the empty space above liquids in storage tanks to prevent contamination and maintain product quality. To help you understand how this process works and what makes it so important, this guide will cover all you need …

Nick Vasco | 4 minutes | 02/06/2025

What is Argon Used for in Welding?

Argon is primarily used as a shielding gas in welding to protect the weld pool from atmospheric contamination and ensure clean, strong, and high-quality welds. To help you get the most out of this staple welding gas, this guide will cover: The Critical Role of Argon as a Shielding Gas In welding, argon is your …

Nick Vasco | 3 minutes | 02/05/2025

Is Argon an Inert Gas?

Argon is an inert gas that belongs to the noble gas family. Its unique properties and lack of reactivity make it invaluable for various industrial and commercial applications. In this guide, you’ll learn exactly what makes argon so special besides its inert nature. We’ll also cover some key safety considerations and the importance of opting …

Nick Vasco | 3 minutes | 02/05/2025

Is Argon Flammable?

No, argon is not flammable. As a noble gas, it’s chemically inert and won’t support combustion under normal circumstances. This property makes argon invaluable in many industrial applications. In this guide, we’ll explain why this is the case and how argon is used across industries. You’ll then learn about the key safety best practices to …

Nick Vasco | 4 minutes | 02/04/2025

How to Increase Nitrogen in Soil

You can increase nitrogen in soil through various methods, with organic matter addition and specialized nitrogen-rich products being the most effective. In this guide, we’ll explain these two methods in more detail and discuss a few other effective approaches you should try. Tip: Check out WestAir’s nitrogen services. The Power of Organic Matter: Nature’s Nitrogen …

Nick Vasco | 4 minutes | 02/04/2025

What Is Nitrogen Fixation?

Nitrogen fixation is the process of converting atmospheric nitrogen into compounds that plants and organisms can use. It’s what makes gardens thrive and helps farmers maintain healthy crops. In this guide, we’ll show you how nitrogen fixation works and discuss its main types. You’ll then learn about the role of this process in different industries, …

Nick Vasco | 3 minutes | 02/03/2025

Is Nitrogen a Greenhouse Gas?

Pure nitrogen (N2) is not a greenhouse gas, but certain nitrogen compounds like nitrous oxide (N2O) are among the most potent greenhouse gases affecting our climate today. In this guide, we draw a line between different nitrogen compounds to explain their impact on the environment. We’ll also discuss how different industrial processes affect the climate …

Nick Vasco | 4 minutes | 02/03/2025

What Is Dry Ice Blasting Used For?

Dry ice blasting is a cleaning method that uses compressed air and solid carbon dioxide (dry ice) pellets to clean various surfaces and equipment. Thanks to its versatility, this process found its way to many industries, and this guide explores its main use cases. You’ll then learn about the key environmental and safety benefits that …

Nick Vasco | 3 minutes | 01/31/2025

What Is the Mix for Shielding Gases?

The most common shielding gas mixture for welding is 75% argon and 25% carbon dioxide (CO2). But there’s more to the story when it comes to effective gas combinations. In this guide, we explore different shielding gas mixtures to show you some popular options. We’ll then discuss the main factors to consider when finding the …

Nick Vasco | 3 minutes | 01/31/2025

What Is Cryotherapy and What Materials Are Used for It?

Cryotherapy is a medical treatment that uses extremely cold temperatures to treat various conditions. It mainly relies on gases (that are in their liquid or solid state at low temperatures) like liquid nitrogen, carbon dioxide, and nitrous oxide. In this guide, we’ll cover the basic mechanism behind cryotherapy and discuss these fluids and solids in …

Nick Vasco | 4 minutes | 01/30/2025

What is Plasma Cutting and What Gases Are Used for It?

Plasma cutting is a precision metal-cutting process that uses a high-velocity jet of ionized gas (plasma) to cut through electrically conductive materials. It relies on specific gases to create the plasma arc and achieve clean, precise cuts across various metals and thicknesses. This guide explores the basics of plasma cutting technology and common gases involved …

Nick Vasco | 4 minutes | 01/29/2025

What Gases Are Used in Hospitals?

Hospitals mainly use six essential gases: Each of these gases plays a crucial role in modern healthcare, from basic patient care to complex surgical procedures. In this guide, we’ll discuss their key applications, after which you’ll learn about the safety requirements and protocols to follow. Life-Saving Oxygen and Its Critical Applications Oxygen is the most …

Nick Vasco | 4 minutes | 01/28/2025

What Is Gasless MIG Welding?

Gasless MIG welding, also known as Self-Shielded Flux-Cored Arc Welding (FCAW-S), is a welding process that eliminates the need for external shielding gas by using a special flux-cored wire that creates its own protective shield when heated. This innovative welding method has become increasingly popular among both professionals and DIY enthusiasts for its portability and …

Nick Vasco | 4 minutes | 01/28/2025

Everything You Need to Know About Shielding Gases

Shielding gases are protective gases used in welding to prevent contamination and ensure high-quality welds. Whether you’re new to welding or looking to optimize your processes, understanding these gases is crucial for successful welding projects. This guide will show you the most commonly used shielding gases and mixtures you can choose from. We’ll then cover …

Nick Vasco | 4 minutes | 01/27/2025

What Gases Are Used in Metal Fabrication?

Metal fabrication relies on several industrial gases, with argon, helium, carbon dioxide, and oxygen being the most commonly used options for various welding and cutting processes. In this guide, we’ll discuss these gases in more detail to show you their roles in metal fabrication. We’ll then explore some common gas mixtures for when a single …

Nick Vasco | 3 minutes | 01/27/2025

How Long Does Carbonation Last in Soda?

Carbonation typically lasts between 6 and 9 months in sealed soda containers when stored properly. Still, this duration can vary significantly based on several key factors. In this guide, you’ll learn what affects carbonation longevity, after which we’ll go over some tips for maximizing it. The Science Behind Carbonation Retention To keep soda fizzy, you …

Nick Vasco | 3 minutes | 01/24/2025

Why Do Forklifts Use Propane?

Forklifts mainly use propane because it offers the right combination of power, efficiency, and convenience crucial for material handling operations. This clean-burning fuel has become the go-to choice for businesses looking to maximize their forklift fleet’s performance while maintaining cost-effectiveness and environmental responsibility. This guide explores the benefits of propane in more detail to show …

Nick Vasco | 4 minutes | 01/22/2025

Where Do You Get Nitrogen?

Nitrogen mainly comes from the Earth’s atmosphere, where it makes up 78% of the air we breathe. While it’s all around us, converting atmospheric nitrogen into usable forms requires specific processes and technology. In this guide, we discuss these processes to show you where nitrogen for industrial and commercial uses comes from. We’ll also show …

Nick Vasco | 3 minutes | 01/08/2025

What are the Advantages and Challenges of Hydrogen Fueling?

Explore the pros and cons of hydrogen fueling for industry applications. Learn about environmental benefits, operational advantages, and key challenges.

Nick Vasco | 3 minutes | 01/08/2025

What is Propane Used For? Common Uses & Applications

Explore propane's versatile uses in manufacturing, homes, and specialized applications. Learn about its efficiency, safety, and environmental benefits.

Nick Vasco | 3 minutes | 01/08/2025

What Is Cryogenic Food Freezing and What Materials Are Used?

Learn about the cryogenic food freezing process and the most common materials used for it. Discover specific applications and benefits of different materials.

Nick Vasco | 4 minutes | 01/08/2025

How To Ensure Safety When Welding

Discover the key welding safety guidelines: proper PPE use, ventilation techniques, and equipment maintenance. See how to ensure a secure welding environment.

Nick Vasco | 4 minutes | 01/08/2025

How Is CO2 Added to Soda?

Discover how CO2 is added to soda, from the science behind carbonation to industrial methods. Learn about quality control and equipment used.

Nick Vasco | 4 minutes | 01/08/2025

What Gases Are Used in Welding?

Explore the essential gases used in welding, from inert to fuel gases. Learn how to choose the right gas for your project and ensure safe handling.

Nick Vasco | 3 minutes | 01/08/2025

What Are the 5 Parameters of Welding and What Do They Mean?

Master the 5 essential welding parameters (CLAMS) to achieve high-quality welds. Learn how current, arc length, angle, manipulation, and speed impact your work.

Nick Vasco | 4 minutes | 01/08/2025

What Is the Best Gas for Welding?

Discover the best gas for welding - Argon/CO2 mix for MIG and pure gases for specialized tasks. Find out how to choose the right gas for your project.

Nick Vasco | 3 minutes | 01/07/2025

What Is the Cleanest Fuel to Burn?

Discover the cleanest fuel options for industrial use. Learn about natural gas advantages, compare alternatives, and find the best solution for your operation.

Nick Vasco | 4 minutes | 01/07/2025

Gas Cylinder Safety Tips

Discover essential gas cylinder safety tips for industrial users. Learn about proper storage, handling, PPE, and emergency protocols to ensure workplace safety.

Nick Vasco | 3 minutes | 01/07/2025

The Impact of Helium Extraction on the Price of the Gas

Discover how helium extraction impacts its price and availability. Learn about the complex process and market dynamics affecting this crucial gas.

Nick Vasco | 3 minutes | 01/07/2025

How to Choose a Food-Grade CO2 Supplier for Your Restaurant

Learn how to choose the best food-grade CO2 supplier for your restaurant. Ensure quality, reliability, and cost-effectiveness for your beverage service.

Nick Vasco | 3 minutes | 01/07/2025

What is the Role of Nitrogen Gas in Restaurant Kitchens?

In modern restaurant kitchens, nitrogen gas preserves food freshness, enhances food preparation techniques, and improves overall kitchen efficiency. This guide explains exactly how this happens to help you understand the critical role of nitrogen gas. We’ll then show you how to reap its many benefits while following the necessary safety practices. Food Preservation and Extended …

Nick Vasco | 3 minutes | 12/17/2024