For which type of welding is thoriated tungsten typically used?

Thoriated tungsten is primarily used for DCEN (Direct Current Electrode Negative) welding, particularly when working with specific metals such as stainless steel, carbon steel, and other alloys. The addition of thorium to the tungsten enhances the electrode's performance by improving arc stability and increasing the current-carrying ability. This enables the welder to achieve better penetration and a more stable arc, which is crucial for producing high-quality welds.

While thoriated tungsten can be used in AC applications, it is not typically favored for those settings. In AC welding, especially on aluminum, different types of tungsten electrodes such as pure tungsten or zirconiated tungsten are preferred due to their ability to work effectively with the alternating current. Additionally, thoriated tungsten is not suitable for welding non-metallic materials as it is designed specifically for metal welding applications. Hence, the choice of thoriated tungsten aligns specifically with DCEN welding for certain metals, reinforcing why it is the correct focus in this context.