.
32 © Weldclass 2020 | E.&O.E.
10.2.2 The TIG Process
10.2.2.1 Description
The acronym TIG stands for Tungsten Inert Gas. Tungsten refers to the type of conductor (a tungsten
electrode) that is used to transfer the welding current to the job and create the arc. Inert Gas refers
to the fact that the process relies on an inert gas to prevent weld oxidisation.
Also referred to as Gas Tungsten Arc Welding (GTAW).
10.2.2.2 Process
In simple terms, TIG welding is probably most similar to oxy flame welding. However, instead of a
flame it uses an electrical arc to melt the job and filler metal, and instead of a preheat flame it uses
inert gas to prevent weld oxidisation. Like oxy flame welding, the filler metal is fed into the weld by
hand as required. Due to the fact that the current is not conducted to the job via the filler metal, (as
it is in MIG and MMA welding), the arc is much more controllable.
10.2.2.3 Advantages
Very low amperages can be achieved making this process ideal for welding thin materials. Also, due
to the independence of the arc and the filler metal application, TIG welding is very controllable and
can therefore achieve very high quality welds with excellent appearance. Unlike MIG and MMA
welding, TIG welding does not produce spatter so clean up is very minimal. It is typically used where
weld appearance is critical (e.g. handrails) or where weld quality is vital (e.g. pressure vessels or
pipes).
10.2.2.4 Limitations
Whilst TIG welding is very controllable, it can also be slower and more tedious than MIG or MMA
welding and it will generally not operate well on dirty or rusty materials meaning that additional
weld preparation is sometimes necessary. It also requires a higher level of skill and experience to
achieve a quality result.
10.2.2.5 Materials
This machine incorporates AC/DC TIG function which can be used to weld a variety of materials
including mild steels, stainless steels, copper and chrome moly, aluminium, titanium and zinc.
To Next Page
Loading...
