How to Use Tungsten Inert Gas
Tungsten inert gas (TIG) torches are used to weld metals that are resistant to traditional metal inert gas torches. TIG torches use a tungsten electrode that transfers heat to a metal surface via an electric arc. Inert gases like helium, argon or a mixture of the two, are functional in shielding the electric arc from contamination by gases in the atmosphere. Shielding prevents metal rusting and allows for a neat welding experience. Resistant metals include aluminum, stainless steel and magnesium.
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Things You'll Need
- Tungsten inert gas welding torch
- Tungsten electrodes
- Heat-protective gloves
- Steel or aluminum filler rod
- Magnifying glasses (optional)
Instructions
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Put on your gloves. Slide an appropriately-sized tungsten electrode into your welding torch's collet. The thicker the pieces of metal to be welded, the larger the electrode you will need to use. Follow torch manufacturer recommendations concerning the correct size of electrode for a specific job. Plug your inert gas welding torch into an appropriate AC/DC outlet. According to Stanford University experts, a pointed tip electrode is usually used for DC welding, while AC welding normally requires a rounded tip.
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Wear a pair of magnifying glasses if you need a close-up view while you are working. Hold your TIG welding torch in your dominant hand, back at an angle close to the metal. The torch comes with a foot pedal with which you may gauge the heat being exerted. Press the foot pedal firmly. This will create an arc of heat that will be applied to the metal. As the metal melts, move the torch in a tight, circular motion to form a puddle.
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Choose a filler rod that is composed of the same metal as that which is to be welded. Place your filler rod directly underneath the heat, at the edge of the puddle. Begin to melt the rod into the puddle, as well. Release the pedal to stop. You have now softened the surface of the first piece of metal to be welded.
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Locate the other piece of metal to be welded. Layer it on top of the original metal piece in the puddle. Press the torch's foot pedal to activate it. Place the torch edge where the two metals meet. Drag the arc of heat forward along the edge. Push the puddle along the seam, slowly, until the two sides melt into each other. Apply the heat evenly to both pieces.
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Use your filler rod to create joints between the two metals. Hold it to the welded metals at a 15-degree angle. Move the torch to the back of the puddle and the filler rod to the front. The filler rod will melt away a bit, and help you to apply heat and metal filler to small spaces between the two metals. Remove the rod, and bring the torch back to the puddle front. Alternate like this along the entire seam until a complete joint is created.
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References
- Photo Credit welding image by glgec from Fotolia.com
