How TIG Welding Works

For any business or hobby welder, having a full range of skills and equipment available can make you far more effective and versatile.

One of the handiest capabilities to have is the ability to do TIG welding.

It has a multitude of uses, but it’s particularly used for joining two dissimilar metals, or to weld copper and titanium. TIG welding is also excellent for getting into hard to reach places for your metal hobby project or production process. For example, it is great for welding on curves or cylindrical shapes.

 

In case you haven’t come across the term TIG welding or you are unsure what it entails, here is a basic guide.

What Is the Meaning of TIG Welding?

 

TIG is an abbreviation for Tungsten Inert Gas. The welding method’s proper technical name should actually be Gas Tungsten Arc Welding (GTAW) and you may see that in some technical specs.

The basic principle is that you use  TIG welding gas in conjunction with an arc of electricity that passes from the tungsten metal electrode to the surface you are working on.

The tungsten metal electrode is “non-consumable”, meaning it doesn’t melt. As it creates a small but intense arc of electricity, from its point to the surface, it can facilitate even the most precise welding. These are just some of the reasons why it is popular for high quality or exacting projects.

When you use this method for welding, an inert gas (usually argon) serves to protect and cool the tungsten electrode and the weld puddle.

At one stage helium gas was used as a control material for the electric arc. For this reason, TIG welding is still sometimes referred to as Heli-arc welding.

More Insights on TIG Welding

 

The most similar system is oxy-acetylene welding, as in some cases a filler material is required to create an effective weld. TIG welding relies on a constant current power source – either DC or AC.

But where did TIG welding start? It began right back in the 1930s and 1940s, as a way of effectively welding magnesium and aluminium. It was used extensively in the Second World War for effective and quick airplane repairs.

TIG welding also grew in popularity quickly. Particularly as it uses an inert gas for protection and control, dispensed with reliance on other materials. This meant streamlining and simplifying welds that would have previously relied on gas and manual metal arc welding.

Getting The Right Supplies For TIG Welding

 

Nowadays, it is possible to select the right TIG welding gas and equipment to achieve this process in any welding position. And for when you are using manual, semi-automatic and automatic systems.

It is important to have a good working relationship with your gas cylinder supplier when TIG welding, to ensure you have the correct size and type of cylinder.

Also, to be confident you are using an appropriate gas cylinder filling process for TIG welding, only buy from a gas refill service that understands the differing requirements of all welding methods and equipment.

To discuss the right size of cylinders and gas category for your business or hobby welding, contact us for a chat with a friendly member of our team.