Airgas has floated to the top of the US industrial gas distribution industry. Its North American network of more than 1,100 locations includes retail stores, gas fill plants, specialty gas labs, production facilities (17 air separation plants), and distribution centers. Airgas distributes argon, carbon dioxide, hydrogen, nitrogen, oxygen, and a variety of medical and specialty gases, as well as dry ice and protective equipment (hard hats, goggles). Its gases production unit operates air-separation plants that produce oxygen, nitrogen, and argon. The company also sells welding machines. In 2016 global rival Air Liquide SA bought Airgas for $13.4 billion.