SESKStuff Everyone Should Know
SESK: Stuff Everyone Should Know · sesk.info/weld-stainless-98-2

Which argon and CO2 mix does Miller say works well for MIG welding stainless steel?

98% argon, 2% CO2.

Start playing free

  1. 75% argon, 25% carbon dioxide
  2. 100% carbon dioxide
  3. 98% argon, 2% carbon dioxide ✔

Why: Stainless needs low CO2, under 5 percent, to keep extra carbon out of the weld. Miller lists 98% argon, 2% CO2 as a good option.

Huh, didn't know that: Miller warns too much heat for too long can cause carbide precipitation in stainless.

The dad joke
Stainless MIG wire loves 98/2. It is the cleanest relationship in the shop.
Like this card?
Play the game

References

Answer: 98% argon, 2% carbon dioxide. Stainless needs low CO2, under 5 percent, to keep extra carbon out of the weld. Miller lists 98% argon, 2% CO2 as a good option.

  1. Improve Results MIG Welding Stainless (Miller) www.millerwelds.com/en-us/resources/knowledge-hub/mig-welding/how-to/want-to-improve-results-when-mig-welding-stainless-steel
    A 98% argon / 2% carbon dioxide mix also works well for welding the material.
    Checked 2026-10-10.
  2. Improve Results MIG Welding Stainless (Miller) www.millerwelds.com/en-us/resources/knowledge-hub/mig-welding/how-to/want-to-improve-results-when-mig-welding-stainless-steel
    Use a shielding gas with less than 5% carbon dioxide to avoid excess carbon in the weld.
    Checked 2026-10-10.

Think this answer is wrong? Tap "Challenge this answer" on the card in the game and tell us why.

Test yourself in the game

Trades & ShopWhat is the most common shielding gas mix for MIG welding mild steel?Trades & ShopWhat shielding gas is most common for MIG welding aluminum?Trades & ShopCompared with 75/25 argon and CO2, what does 100% CO2 shielding gas tend to give?

That's stuff everyone should know.