TIG welding is a versatile and precise method that produces high-quality and aesthetically pleasing welds on a variety of metals.
Also known as Gas Tungsten Arc Welding (GTAW), TIG welding creates a welding arc between a non-consumable tungsten electrode and the workpiece – the heat created by this arc melts the base metal resulting in a high-quality end product, be that on materials such as mild steel or weld aluminium.
The control and versatility offered by TIG welding machines make this process suitable for a wide range of materials and applications, from industrial manufacturing to aerospace and aviation industries.
Choosing the right TIG welder for your workplace involves evaluating your welding needs, including which materials your team will be working with, material thicknesses, power requirements and additional features that will enhance precision and control.
By considering these factors and understanding the capabilities and limitations of different models, you can select a TIG welder that provides the best performance and value for your welding projects.
TIG welders are ideal for working with a variety of materials, including stainless steel, aluminium, titanium and copper alloys. Unlike MIG welding, TIG welders are better suited for use with thinner materials thanks to the level of control offered over the weld pool and heat input meaning a lower amperage can be used when required.
We’re here to ensure you invest in the correct TIG welder, so choosing the machine that’s best suited to your power demands is crucial. If your requirements include welding aluminium or magnesium, you’ll need a tig welder with AC (alternating current) capability. DC (direct current) is used for welding steels, stainless steels and other metals. Our team of specialists can advise on the best equipment to support your requirements and power supply limitations – both now and in the future.
Depending on your workforce’s capabilities, the choice of foot pedal or hand control in TIG welders is key. Whilst a foot pedal offers real-time control of the welding current to provide more precise welds, hand control is useful for situations where a foot pedal may be impractical.
Frequently Asked Questions
TIG welding (Tungsten Inert Gas welding) uses a non-consumable tungsten electrode to produce the weld. The process relies on an electric welding arc created between the tungsten electrode and the workpiece to generate the necessary heat for welding.
The choice between MIG and TIG welding machines depends on multiple factors, including application, material and the skill level of your welders. Each welding machine and its process has its advantages and disadvantages, making them suitable for different use cases.
Whilst MIG welders offer the advantage of high speeds of production, TIG welders produce higher-quality welds due to increased levels of control and precision.
Unlike MIG welders, TIG welding machines aren’t affected by external factors such as wind sensitivity due to the absence of any shielding gas requirements.
Cost is another factor that must be considered – TIG welding machines are often more expensive than MIG welders, however, provide a crucial investment for your business due to the premium quality of weld produced by the welding process.
There are many benefits of the TIG welding process:
Although TIG welders have many benefits, including precision and control, they often come at a higher price point than alternative welding machines. This level of quality means a longer lead time, making them less suitable for high-volume production.
TIG welding machines are often considered more difficult to master and less accessible to beginners, meaning that less experienced workers may struggle to master the welding process without further training and skill development.
Application areas of TIG welders can vary across multiple sectors, prioritising tasks that require high-quality, clean welds on thin sheet metal and mild steel.
The ability to produce detailed and intricate components makes any TIG machine an optimum choice for the aerospace and automotive industries, as well as the manufacturing of metal medical devices and electronics.
