Laser welding 0.8 mm 304 — what shielding gas?

Question

We are laser welding thin 304 sheet for appliance panels. Some references say argon, some helium mix. What do you use for consistent cosmetic welds?

Answer

Argon is the baseline for thin sheet. Helium mixes help penetration on thicker sections but can widen the HAZ on 0.8 mm and increase spatter. Fix the focus and travel speed first, then tune gas — not the other way round.

Laser welding 0.8 mm 304 — what shielding gas?

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