Tig Welding
The TIG welding process is similar to the braze welding process used with an oxy-fuel gas torch. It requires more skill than other types of welding.
All welding requires the application of heat, which melts the metal being welded. With the TIG process, the heat comes from an electric arc that streams between the electrode in a hand-held torch and the metal being welded. The arc and molten metal are shielded by an inert gas, which protects the electrode and base metal from oxidizing. Filler rod is usually added to the puddle of molten metal as the weld progresses. The essence of making a good weld is heat control, which is governed by how you modulate the arc as it streams from the torch. Let’s look at this in detail.
Check out our selection of TIG Welders
Tips for tig welding
Use The Minimum Power
One of the basic TIG welding tips that you need to remember is that too much power can cause the weld to burn through. So use the minimum power as much as possible (or at least at a power setting that you can sustain) so you can come up with a puddle technique that is enough to create a strong and solid weld.
The Angle Of The Torch
The torch must be at least 15-20 degrees away from the surface material (and the path of travel) to allow easy access of the filler material and to have increased visibility of the part to be welded
Keep The Materials Clean
Metals have to be clean to ensure a strong welding arc. For aluminum and stainless steel, it is recommended that you use a delicate brush for each type of metal. A few minutes can make a big difference in producing a better outcome.
Don’t Melt The Filler Rod Directly
Always remember how TIG welding works: The base metal is melted by the torch while the filler material is melted by the molten puddle. Avoid melting material directly as this will only result in a weak weld.
Wear Protective Gear
Tungsten electrodes emit a low level of radiation. So it’s a must that you wear a respirator to protect your nose and mouth. Likewise, we also recommend that you practice TIG welding at a properly ventilated area to prevent the dust from compromising the quality of work you are doing.
Use The Correct Type Of Tungsten
Working with different metals requires you to use the correct type of tungsten. For aluminum surfaces, you are advised to use green tungsten as much as possible. And for steel metals, you are advised to use red tungsten. As you go practice further, you will also find out that other types of metal will work well with different kinds of tungsten.
Working With Stainless Steel
And lastly, one of the basic TIG welding tips that you need to remember is being cautious when applying excessive heat when working with stainless steel. You can do this by simply observing the color of the weld.
If the coloring results in a golden to salmon-colored, then the heat applied is just enough. But if the color of the weld is dark to dirty gray, then excessive heat is being used and the material could warp.
To prevent problems in your future welding jobs, we recommend that you reduce the amps and increase the travel speed. You may also try reducing the thickness of the filler rod so that it can be melted easily with moderate heat.