TIG Welder Operation
Filed Under MIG &TIG Welder Basics |
Tungsten Inert Gas welders or TIG welders use an inert tungsten electrode and heat is generated between this electrode and the work metal. Miller TIG welders and Lincoln TIG welders both operate using this method. It was first used in the aerospace industry in the 1940’s
It can be used in two ways either without a filler material or using a wire filler metal which is melted at the tip of the electrode and dropped onto the joint being welded. For shielding the weld inert gas, usually argon, is used. Metal will react with oxygen in the air at these temperature and the resulting oxidation of the metal reduces the strength of the weld. The shield prevents oxidation of the weld and the metal surrounding it. A gas shield does not produce slag which is produced when flux is used therefore there is no danger of slag inclusion in the weld. The TIG process is relatively slow which allow impurities and gases to rise to the surface of the puddle before the metal solidifies. This helps to eliminate pockets (called Porosity) in the weld which can occur when gas shielding is used with a welding process faster than a TIG weld.
The heat produced occurs in a narrow zone that reduces cracking, stress and distortion in the weld. In addition no spatter is produced so the weld and surrounding areas are clean. The lack of flux smoke and spatter assists the welder who has a clear view of the weld puddle.
Usually the torch body is small which allows easier manipulation for the operator. AC (alternating current), DC (direct current) and a combination of AC/DC can be used for TIG welding, the type determined by the metal to be welded. For stainless steel, low alloy or mild steels DC is usually used. For aluminum AC is the usual choice.
An extremely clean surface is required for successful TIG welding and the process is relatively slow. However the weld is of high quality and the lack of spatter makes operation easier.
Miller TIG welders or Lincoln TIG welders will meet your needs but if there is a possibility that you may want to weld aluminum in the future make sure you choose a high frequency AC model.
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