Which type of grinding stone is recommended for tungsten electrodes?

The recommended choice for grinding tungsten electrodes is a medium grinding stone. This type of grinding stone strikes a balance between providing enough material removal to achieve a fine point and maintaining the integrity of the tungsten. When tungsten electrodes are ground, the objective is to create a clean, sharp tip that will enable a stable arc during the welding process.

Using a medium grinding stone helps to create a point on the tungsten with a suitable taper, facilitating better arc stability and control. Fine grinding stones, while capable of providing a smooth finish, may not effectively shape the electrode into a proper point, leading to difficulty during the welding process. Coarse grinding stones, on the other hand, can remove too much material too quickly, which may produce an undesirable shape or rough surface finish, adversely affecting performance.

Avoiding the use of any grinding stone would also not be ideal, as tungsten needs to be properly prepared before use to ensure optimal welding performance. Hence, the selection of a medium grinding stone is crucial for achieving the necessary geometry of the electrode for effective gas tungsten arc welding.