Gas Flow Rate Calculator
Determine the recommended shielding gas flow rate based on nozzle size, weld type, wind conditions, and material.
Inputs
1/16 in
Results
Recommended Flow Rate
20 CFH
Minimum Flow15 CFH
Maximum Flow27 CFH
Gas Cost Per Hour$0.80
How to Use This Calculator
- Enter the nozzle diameter in inches for your MIG or TIG torch.
- Select the weld type (MIG, TIG, FCAW, etc.) and the wind condition at the weld location.
- Choose the base material type — stainless, aluminum, and reactive metals need higher flow rates.
- Read Recommended Flow Rate (CFH) as the target setting for your regulator.
- Keep the rate between Minimum Flow and Maximum Flow to ensure proper shielding without turbulence.
- Adjust upward in drafty or outdoor conditions and verify coverage by observing a clean, porosity-free bead.
How the result changes with Nozzle Diameter
| Nozzle Diameter | Recommended Flow Rate |
|---|---|
| 7.8 | 16 CFH |
| 12 | 24 CFH |
| 18 | 36 CFH |
| 22 | 44 CFH |
What each input means
- Nozzle Diameter
- Inside diameter of the gas nozzle in sixteenths of an inch (e.g., 10 = 5/8 inch).
- Weld Type
- 1 = Fillet weld, 2 = Groove weld (groove needs more coverage).
- Wind Condition
- 1 = Indoor / still air, 2 = Mild breeze, 3 = Windy (consider windscreens).
- Material Type
- 1 = Carbon Steel (75/25 Ar/CO2), 2 = Stainless Steel (Tri-mix), 3 = Aluminum (100% Argon).
How this is calculated
Worked example, using the default values
- Identify Input Parameters4 parametersNozzle Diameter = 10, Weld Type = 1, Wind Condition = 1, Material Type = 1 = 4 input(s) provided
- Calculate Recommended Flow RateRecommended Flow Rate20 = 20
- Calculate Minimum FlowMinimum Flow15 = 15
- Calculate Maximum FlowMaximum Flow27 = 27
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