TIG welding has been used for years by welders to finish tasks with thinner metals than MIG can handle. So What is TIG Welding? The majority of metals can be welded using the highly advanced, exact, and adaptable TIG welding technique. As a result, many welders utilize it.
To better understand this welding method, you can scroll down to track each item, weldfaq has provided for you.
What is TIG Welding?
Gas Tungsten Arc Welding (GTAW), also referred to as Tungsten Inert Gas (TIG) welding. Through the use of welding current, metal parts are joined during the welding process. The welding arc is shielded from oxidation and the development of tiny circular gaps by the flow of inert gas fed to the torch. Inside the torch is an electrode made of tungsten, which has a greater melting point than other metals.
Gas tungsten arc welding produces precise, attractive, and well-penetrated solder beads. This is the method of choice for welding stainless steel, aluminum, magnesium alloys, and many other metals. When it comes to creating welds of superior quality, it is an unbeatable method despite being a little more expensive and slower than certain other forms of solder.
How does TIG Welding work?
Utilizing the rotary knobs on the machine, the first stage in the TIG welding process is to configure the machine to the proper settings, such as current and voltage. The next step is to use the flowmeter regulator to apply the proper pressure to the inert gas in the supply vessel.
By choosing the right electrode diameter, TIG collet, and other parts, the TIG torch should be changed in accordance with the project’s needs. Wearing clean protection gear is of the utmost importance if you want to weld with a clear perspective.
It’s time to weld the metals together after all the necessary preparation work has been finished. Arc length, travel speed, torch angle, among other factors, must all be taken into account to ensure seamless functioning.
An arc is created between the material and the tungsten electrode during gas tungsten arc welding. Since the arc produced by the electrode is so powerful, TIG welding is ideal for producing welds of the highest quality. Throughout the welding procedure, the electrode is not used up.
High precision is necessary for TIG welding. In that the electrode is inserted into the puddle with one hand while holding the torch in the other, it is comparable to oxy-acetylene torch welding. But with TIG, a foot pedal or other tool on the torch allows the welder to simultaneously adjust the current going to the weld as well.
Uses of TIG Welding
Welding small and thin metals: TIG welding is better for welding metals like aluminum because it gives the welder greater accuracy. Additionally, welders are capable of doing things like painting metal. For instance, TIG works well for creating items that need to have a stylish appearance for aesthetic reasons.
In aerospace: To produce strong welds with unique alloys, the aerospace sector mainly relies on TIG welders. We are able to construct and repair aircraft, including helicopters, spacecraft, thanks to GTAW’s accuracy, coupling quality, and adaptability.
In pipe welding: Despite not being an industry, pipe welding is a well-known vocation for TIG welders. The oil and gas, infrastructure, automobile, and construction industries all use pipes.
In the production of means of transport:
Because more aluminum is being used in the production of vehicles, TIG welding has become more common. Vehicle manufacturers must lighten their products in order to comply with increasingly demanding laws regarding fuel efficiency and emissions. As a result, whenever practical, aluminum is used in cars, trucks, vans, and other vehicles in place of steel.
The production of bicycle frames requires the welding of thin steel and aluminum tubes, and the weld must adhere to strict aesthetic standards. Thanks to its accuracy and superb welding form, GTAW is most frequently used to combine tubes into strong, lightweight bicycle frames.
Pros and Cons of TIG Welding
Pros of TIG Welding
- A wide range of metals and alloys are suitable for TIG welding.
- TIG welding equipment provide a wide variety of unique features that are ideal for particular operations.
- Vertical, horizontal, and above positions are all acceptable for TIG welding.
- TIG welding is far cleaner than other types of welding, producing less smoke, sparks, spatter, and fumes. TIG welding therefore requires little cleaning or finishing, saving you both time and money.
- TIG welding works with various metal thicknesses. It is appropriate for very thin materials that are challenging to mix with other welding processes, if not impossible.
- TIG welds of excellent quality are made possible by the consumable electrode and stable arc, which provide the user more control.
- This gas metal arc welding technology has fewer weld flaws since safety gas is employed.
- Because the shielding gas is colorless and minimal smoke is produced, the workpiece may be seen clearly.
Cons of TIG Welding
- It takes a lot of talent to learn and master TIG welding, which is regarded as one of the most challenging welding methods.
- TIG welding takes a while, especially when you’re just learning. The procedure is frequently slower than other types of welding, even when carried out by a proficient TIG welder.
- TIG welding costs can rise more quickly than those of other methods since the deposition rate is lower and the procedure cannot be automated.
- Outside of a regulated (windless) workshop setting, TIG welding can be exceedingly difficult since it’s crucial to keep a steady flow of gas across the puddle.
Frequently Asked Questions & Answers (Weld FAQ)
Does TIG welding require filler material?
TIG welds can run bead without filler, melting only the base metals, but if the project calls for it, you can also utilize it with a solder bar or metal coil.
Why should I try TIG Welding?
When occurrences are noted, TIG enables you to generate clean welds because of its excellent arc and puddle control. With a TIG welder, you may precisely regulate the bead size by heating or cooling the puddle by depressing the foot pedal, much like when operating a car. TIG welding is therefore perfect for artistic welds like those used in sculpture and automotive fabrication.
What welding method should be used when welding thin metal materials?
For welding thin metal plates, TIG is the best arc welding technique. The TIG welding procedure provides you with the best heat management to prevent warping, discoloration, and burning thanks to several arc and heat control techniques.
Conclusion
Not only is TIG welding not the most affordable welding method, it is also not the simplest to learn and master. But the time and energy you put into learning it will pay dividends. Do not be fooled; TIG welding produces some very remarkable outcomes.
We hope by now you will no longer wonder What is TIG Welding? and you gain more knowledge about how this useful welding method works. If you have any questions, leave a comment below!
