The tungsten electrode E3^® (purple) developed by ABICOR BINZEL with oxides of rare earths as doping elements is suitable for both direct current (DC) and alternating current (AC) welding. Practically any metal can be welded with it. Because of its excellent ignition properties, it is therefore also often used for automated processes. During the welding process, the electrode temperature remains consistently low, which in turn ensures better current carrying capacity and a longer service life compared to thoriated electrodes. The latter may only be used in exceptional cases because of their extremely harmful effects.