What Is a TIG Welding Machine?
The TIG welding process allows a welder precise control which results in a clean weld bead. TIG welding machines are frequently used to weld stainless steel, aluminum, magnesium, copper, brass, chromoly and other alloys. Does this Spark an idea?
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Basics of TIG
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The acronym TIG stands for tungsten inert gas; however, the official name for the process is GTAW. A type of arc welding, TIG uses a tungsten electrode held in a TIG torch. Shielding gases flow from around the tip of the torch in order to prevent weld oxidation. The tungsten electrode is not consumed by the weld, it simply serves as a means of directing the arc. A separate filler rod adds metal to the weld. The welder uses one hand to hold the TIG torch, one hand to hold the filler rod and a foot control to manipulate the heat input to the weld.
TIG Machines
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While most stick welding machines can be converted into TIG machines through the addition of an air-cooled TIG torch, TIG machines provide additional features that allow for wider welding applications. High frequency start features produce an arc without a physical strike. Preflow and post flow features start the flow of shielding gas before and extends it after the actual welding. Specific frequency settings manage the welding arc for welding various types of metal, including aluminum.
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Benefits
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TIG welding machines produce high quality welds through precise control of the heat input through a foot petal feature. Smaller amounts of filler metal are added to the weld puddle, creating vary little spattering or sparking. The welding process does not create slag, saving the welder from having to remove slag between weld passes. TIG allows welders to produce welds in a variety of positions: flat, vertical and overhead.
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References
Resources
- Photo Credit mig welder image by Jake Hellbach from Fotolia.com
