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Lawrence Haynes | 4 minutes | 05/09/2025

Why Is Argon Used in Windows?

Argon is used in windows because it significantly improves thermal insulation, reduces heat transfer, and enhances energy efficiency compared to air-filled windows. It creates a superior barrier between window panes that helps maintain comfortable indoor temperatures while reducing heating and cooling costs. In this article, we’ll discuss the specific properties that make argon the preferred …

Tyler O'Brien | 6 minutes | 05/09/2025

What Is Industrial Oxygen?

Industrial oxygen is a highly purified form of oxygen gas (typically 90-99% pure) used in manufacturing, metalworking, and chemical processes. Unlike medical-grade oxygen, industrial oxygen is not subject to FDA regulations for human consumption and is specifically manufactured for technical applications. In this guide, we’ll explain how industrial oxygen is produced and cover its main …

Lawrence Haynes | 4 minutes | 05/09/2025

Is Carbon Dioxide a Greenhouse Gas?

Yes, carbon dioxide (CO₂) is considered a greenhouse gas. In fact, it’s a primary driver of global climate change because of its role in trapping heat in Earth’s atmosphere. In this article, we’ll dive deeper into carbon dioxide’s role as a greenhouse gas. You’ll learn how the use of CO2 affects industrial processes and why …

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 …

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 …

Lawrence Haynes | 2 minutes | 03/03/2025

One Small Spark: A Celebration of Our Service-Driven History

SAN DIEGO, CA, February 14, 2025 — We’re proud to introduce the latest phase of WestAir’s brand evolution that honors our roots as a family-owned business while embracing modern customer service innovations. From its humble beginnings in 1970 with a $3,000 loan and borrowed delivery truck in San Diego County, WestAir has grown into a …