TIG welding, also known as GTAW (Gas Tungsten Arc Welding), is a type of welding that uses a non-consumable tungsten electrode and inert gas to weld metals. TIG welding is mostly used to weld thin sections of stainless steel and non-ferrous metals such as aluminum, magnesium and copper alloys.
TIG welding is the most difficult of all the welding processes to master and requires more skill than most other processes. It requires the operator to have a steady hand, good eye-hand coordination, and extensive experience and knowledge of the process.
TIG welding differs from other welding processes in that the heat source is from an electric arc struck between a tungsten electrode and the metal workpiece. The arc is created by a power source, which supplies an electrical current between the electrode and the work piece. The current is adjustable, depending on the metal being welded, the size of the electrode, the size of the workpiece, and the position of the weld.
The tungsten electrode is a non-consumable electrode, meaning that it is not consumed during the welding process. Instead, the electrode is heated by the arc and metal vaporizes from the workpiece and then deposits onto the electrode and the workpiece.
TIG welding uses a shielding gas as a shield between the arc and the metal. The shielding gas protects the weld from the surrounding atmosphere, which helps to maintain a clean, uniform weld bead. The most common shielding gases used in TIG welding are argon, helium, and a mixture of the two.
TIG welding can be used with a variety of metals, including aluminum, stainless steel, and Cast iron. It is used mainly for welding stainless steel, but can also be used for other types of metals. TIG welding is well suited for specialty welding situations because it provides a strong, reliable weld with a high degree of control.
TIG welding is often used for welding thin sheet metal, and for welding tubing, pipe, and aluminum structures. It is also used for root passes when welding thicker metals and structures, and for welding exotic materials that require a high degree of precision.
TIG welding is a popular welding process because of its excellent weld quality and reliability. Although it is more difficult to master than other welding processes, the welds produced with TIG welding are often superior to those produced with other processes. It also offers the ability to weld a wide array of materials and thicknesses and offers the user a high degree of control over the weld.
