regulator question?

[TWINTHER]

Hey new here, i just bought a new HH 187 and the regulator says its for use with argon, does that mean i cant run Co2 through it??
Thanks Ty

[MAC702]

You can run the argon/CO2 mixes through it, but you run a serious risk of freezing the regulator if you run 100% CO2 through it. I know; I froze two of them (in the Las Vegas summer) before I figured that out. Others have done it with no problems, so it's your choice if you want to risk it.

[Rocky D]

You will need an adapter for CO2...I always used flowmeters, but I believe the OEM regulator can handle it. The freezing occurs when you have to high of a gas flow, or welding for long periods of time, and I think the atmospheric conditions play a part in it too. I was close to the ocean, where it's humid. I did freeze up a few times, but it never affected my welding. So I never worried about it. There are even heaters for them to prevent frosting, too, but I never used one.

[TWINTHER]

Thanks guys, i have ran co2 for years, and didnt remember it say that on my old hobart. i think im going to go for it and try. thanks again

One more thing what do you think about running co2 vs mixed?

i weld all diffrent thickness of metal, mainly jeep frames, axles, bumpers stuff like that.

[MAC702]

...
One more thing what do you think about running co2 vs mixed?
...

You should find a million threads on that here.

CO2 is great for general purpose. Much cheaper, lasts longer in the same size bottle, and almost as spatter-free until you get to really thick stuff.

Argon mixes are more spatter-free through a greater power range, and allow you to weld thinner sheet metal.