TIG Welders

What is TIG Welding? 

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TIG stands for tungsten inert gas and is technically called gas tungsten arc welding (GTAW). TIG welding uses a non-consumable tungsten electrode that delivers the current to the welding arc. The tungsten and weld puddle are protected and cooled with an inner gas (typical argon.) A tig welder uses two hands for this welding process, one hand feeds the filler rod into the weld puddle and the other uses an electric torch. This welding process can soft start and soft stop. Making TIG welding different from other types of electric welding.

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Knowing when to use TIG welding process.

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MIG and TIG welding both use an electric arc to make the weld. Using a shielding gas to protect the weld pool from potentially damaging contaminants. However, each process of welding is suited to specific productions. Generally, MIG welding is more often recommended for ease of use. The process tends to be a bit more forgiving of mistakes than TIG welding is. TIG welding requires very strict control over the timing, pressure and electric current.

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TIG is a technical process to learn. This is a refined technique on specific angles. That needs to be done at a slow pace to produce cleaner and more appealing welds. This process is often suggested for small amounts of welding and is commonly used for thinner gauge materials. Items that are made with this process are things such as kitchen sinks and toolboxes. ​

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Choosing a Tig Welder:

• What's your budget? Knowing your budget can help narrow down the machine that will fit your needs.

• Using AC/DC or DC-only TIG welders?

• Pulse welding?

• 3-phase over single-phase

• IP23 vs IP23S!

Learn more about TIG Welding: A Guide to Finding a Tig Welder.

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Key welding equipment you need when TIG Welding: 

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TIG Welder - A TIG welder, or Tungsten Inert Gas welder, is a precision welding machine that uses a non-consumable tungsten electrode to produce a high-quality weld. This welding process, also known as Gas Tungsten Arc Welding (GTAW), provides superior control over the weld pool, allowing for clean, high-quality welds on various metals like steel, stainless steel, aluminium, and more. At Truflame we stock a wide range of quality welders from market-leading brands including ESAB and EWM with an expert team to help you find the right job for your needs. 

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TIG Welding Torch. - TIG welding torches come in two variants: air-cooled and water-cooled. The air-cooled TIG torch presents a cost-effective and convenient choice. Delivering ample power and control compared to its water-cooled counterpart. Ideal for standard applications with lower amperage. Air-cooled TIG torches use surrounding air to disperse the heat generated during the welding process. However, water-cooled TIG torches are for heavy-duty welding tasks that demand higher amperage. They use a dedicated water cooling system to dissipate heat, ensuring lower operating temperatures.

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Tungsten Electrode. - Tungsten electrodes play a critical role in creating and sustaining the electric arc. Essential for generating the heat needed to melt metals and form a welded joint. Various types of tungsten electrodes are used in TIG welding. Each with distinct properties catering to your specific welding needs. These include pure tungsten, thoriated tungsten, lanthanated tungsten, and ceriated tungsten electrodes. Pure tungsten is often used for aluminium welding. Thoriated electrodes offer stability and are commonly used in direct current (DC) applications. Lanthanated and ceriated tungsten electrodes provide enhanced performance, arc stability and longevity. Making them suitable for a wide range of TIG welding. It's essential to choose the right tungsten based on the metal and welding requirements for you.

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Filler Rods. - Selecting the appropriate filler rod or TIG welding wire is based on various factors. Including the type of base metal undergoing welding, the specific application, and the desired properties of the final weld. When using a filler rod you will use the same material as which you are welding. Often used are mild steel, stainless steel, nickel and aluminium.

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Shielding Gas - In TIG welding, argon is frequently used as a shield gas. To protect the weld puddle and prevent contamination. But, the necessity of using argon as a shielding gas may depend on your specific application.

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Gas Regulator. - In TIG welding, ensuring a consistent and regular gas flow is paramount for successful welds. Insufficient gas flow leads to poor shielding increasing the risk of contamination in the weld. It's worth noting that the appropriate gas flow rate depends on various factors. Such as the welding material, thickness, and specific application. Striking the right balance in gas flow is essential for achieving high-quality, contamination-free welds in your jobs.

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TIG Foot Pedal. - Enable users to regulate the welding amperage using their feet during welding. A foot pedal is crucial in TIG welding. Providing you with hands-free control over the current output. This foot-controlled pedal enhances precision and flexibility. Allowing for seamless transitions between different welding conditions and ensuring optimal performance in TIG welding applications.

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Ensuring you have the right PPE. - PPE is massively important in any welding process including TIG welding. You will need flame-resistant protective clothing, including TIG gloves, a Welding jacket and welding trousers. Ensuring protection from heat, sparks and UV radiation. At Truflame we have brought in a wide range of protective equipment over the last few years. To go with our new PPE suite to ensure you are protected during your working hours for men and women. Shop your PPE

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At Truflame, we specialise in welding equipment supplies and provide quality knowledge on all things TIG welding. Including the welding consumables that go along with the TIG welder, get to know the Tig torch and consumables we can supply.