Helium

Helium is a colorless, odorless, non-toxic, no-flammable inert gas with the symbol He on the periodical table. Its many uses include:

•  Shielding gas in arc welding
•  Lifting gas for balloons
• Leak detection (cryogenic tanks)
• Rocketry for propulsion
• Refrigeration

Where does Helium come from?

Most of the helium comes from natural gas deposits. Despite being the most common element in the universe, helium is quite rare on the earth. Helium is generated deep underground through the natural radioactive decay of elements such as uranium and thorium. This process may take ages (centuries to millennia) to form helium. After its formation, helium seeps through the earth’s crust to get trapped in pockets of natural gas. It is then extracted from these pockets by using specialized equipment. Being lighter than air, helium can overcome gravity and escape the earth to reach outer space. Thus, helium sources are considered as nonreplenishable or nonrenewable sources, as it is difficult to recycle helium.

Helium Grades Available:

• Industrial Helium
• Specialty gas helium available with minimum specs
• Zero Helium
• Grade 4.8 Helium
• Grade 5.0 Helium

Balloon Fill Chart