Tungsten inert gas (TIG), also called GTAW (Gas Tungsten Arc Welding), is a commonly used welding process thanks to its versatility and precision. It creates an electric arc between a workpiece and a non-consumable tungsten electrode. It uses inert gas to protect weld zones against atmospheric contamination. According to experts at Micro Weld, the process allows the fusion of different metals, producing quality and clean welds with excellent control.
The Basics
In tungsten inert gas welding, a torch is often used to control the flow and length of an arc. Apart from shielding gas and welding torch, the TIG equipment contains the following components:
- Filler material –These filler materials are technically metal alloys with the same properties as the material base you are welding.
- Tungsten electrode –Tungsten electrodes are non-consumable electrodes that help create an arc. They are excellent conductors of electricity and have high melting points that make them suitable for use in TIG.
- Power Supply—This supply of power constantly provides current to the torch, helping it create an arc.
Benefits of Using TIG
This versatile and popular welding technique suits various materials, including magnesium, nickel alloys, titanium, copper, and stainless steel. Among the key benefits of using it is the control and precision level it provides. With modern power sources, a welder can adjust the welding arc and heat input accurately by using different parameters, allowing welders to adjust using foot pedals to control amperage output while the welding process occurs. Other benefits of using TIG include the following:
- Versatility
TIG welding is one of the versatile techniques for various reasons. First, shielding gas and tungsten electrodes used in the process are suitable for every welding application. Therefore, you don’t have to change them based on the task. In addition, the process is versatile, too, in terms of alloys and materials used to join. Using a welder, you can weld everything from super-austenitic stainless alloys to mild steel. Last but not least, the welding process is also versatile in terms of positions in which you can weld. Flat, horizontal, overhead, and vertical welds can all be accomplished using the method.
- Clean Welds
Using inert gas helps to prevent welds from reacting with some atmospheric components, leading to oxidation-free and clean welds. Cleaner welds are more presentable and stronger than those that are not. This is because this kind of work costs more than others with porosity issues. Since the process is controlled and precise, sparks and spatters don’t come into play. Do you know what that means? A TIG weld is less or more ready to go once the welding process is complete, significantly eliminating or reducing the importance of cleaning steps in other methods, such as MIG welding.
- Quality Welds
The technique’s inherent characteristics allow welders to achieve far better quality than other welding processes, yielding long-lasting and remarkable joints. Micro welding services and the TIG welding process make welds unlikely to crack and fracture.
- No Flux is Required
Unlike other techniques, TIG doesn’t need any flux. By not using flux, welders don’t have to take up more time to clean welds so they can look more presentable. Because of that, you can increase the overall output.
In conclusion, TIG welding guarantees good-looking and accurate weld beads with better penetration. Most welders prefer it for welding magnesium, aluminum alloys, and other metals like stainless steel. Although costly and slower than other techniques, it is matchless when creating quality welds.