Thoriated tungsten electrodes are consumed more slowly than other types of TIG electrodes and are the most commonly used type of tungsten electrode
They provide good arc starts and good arc stability for moderate-current AC or DC welding on copper, nickel, titanium, and stainless steel
Thoriated tungsten electrodes contain thorium, which is a radioactive substance
The electrodes insert into a compatible TIG torch that is connected to a TIG welder that supplies current to the electrode.