T0407GL - CK Worldwide .040 Gold Tungsten Electrodes (10-Pack)

Technical Overview of CK Worldwide T0407GL

The CK Worldwide T0407GL is a premium-grade 1.5% Lanthanated tungsten electrode designed for high-performance Gas Tungsten Arc Welding (GTAW). Classified under AWS A5.12M/A5.12:2009 as EWLa-1.5 and ISO 6848 as WL15, this electrode features a composition of approximately 97.8% Tungsten and 1.3% to 1.7% Lanthanum Oxide (La2O3). The addition of Lanthanum Oxide significantly lowers the work function of the electrode compared to pure tungsten, facilitating easier electron emission. This results in superior arc starting characteristics, improved arc stability, and a wider operating amperage range.

Specifically engineered as a non-radioactive alternative to the traditional 2% Thoriated (Red) tungsten, the 1.5% Lanthanated variant eliminates the health and environmental risks associated with Thorium while matching or exceeding its performance metrics in Direct Current (DC) applications. The .040" (1.0mm) diameter is particularly suited for micro-welding and thin-gauge fabrication where precision heat control is paramount. The electrode exhibits a low erosion rate, maintaining its sharpened geometry for longer durations, which reduces downtime for regrinding. It performs exceptionally well with both inverter and transformer-based constant current power sources.

Metallurgically, the dispersed Lanthanum Oxide helps to pin grain boundaries, preventing grain growth at elevated temperatures common in the welding arc. This structural stability prevents the tip from splitting or spitting, ensuring a clean weld pool free of tungsten inclusions. While versatile enough for AC applications, its primary technical advantage lies in DCEN welding of non-corroding steels, titanium alloys, nickel alloys, and copper alloys, where it provides deep penetration and consistent arc focus.