What is a TIG welder?

We often get asked here at Pro Welder guide, “what is a TIG welder?“.

The reason that this question gets asked a lot is partly that many new welders just getting into the trade are often convinced that MIG welding is the “easiest” way to start out.

There is some truth to this, but hopefully, we can dispel a few myths about TIG welding and show beginners that TIG welding is an absolutely valuable skill to have in your toolbox.

Beginner Zone!

For any old-timers who have stumbled across this article, this is probably not for you so we don’t want to waste your time. This is purely for those starting out and wish to know exactly what a TIG welder is and does.

For those starting out with TOG welding, I suggest checking out our best TIG welding gloves post.

What Is TIG Short For?

TIG is an acronym for Tungsten Inert Gas, is a welding device that utilizes a tungsten electrode, which is non-consumable, in the welding process. [source]

Oxidation is prevented through the entire process by making use of an inert gas which could be either argon or helium.

TIG welding is most commonly used to weld copper, titanium and can be used to weld two different metals.

What is a TIG Welder Used For?

Skilled welders use it to make complicated welds like s-curves and even welds on circular items.

This is what makes it a great option to go for if you want to work on quality and attractive items. 

This welding method is common for welding thin surfaces of stainless steel and other metals like magnesium.

One needs to have specialized training before performing this exercise as it is quite different from other types of welding. Other welding techniques you will soon realize are quite a bit faster than this welding method.

TIG welding is preferred in some cases because of its quality results.

This it achieves as it is able to gain better control on the working surface in a way most welding processes cannot.

When an expert uses this process, high-quality results will surely be obtained.  

As discussed above TIG welding is the best to use when dealing with very thin surfaces. This is the case with kitchen items and other household items.

Even though this is a complicated art of welding, it gives the user greater control and they are able to make awesome welds that result in attractive items.

As TIG welding is a different type of welding, there are some requirements that will sustain the welding process.

The following factors should be considered when performing a TIG welding;

• The welding machine setting should be at DCEN-Direct current electrode negative. This is straight polarity
• Shielding gas should be available to prevent oxidation. Argon can work quite well
• A TIG torch will come in handy. This comes in different sizes and types, an appropriate one will do
• The electrode should be made from an element of tungsten. It will have to be sharp and clean
• An appropriate welding rod will be needed for the process
• You need to be well-versed with a good technique to conduct the whole process. An excellent choice of the pattern will ensure that you have better control of the welding and you get quality results.

TIG welding gives another option of welding that you can go for.

For example, TIG welding is a better technique if you want to design a piece of attractive equipment that is also on a thin metallic surface.

For this particular welding, however, one needs to be highly trained to do it correctly and attractively.

Conclusion

All in all, TIG welding is a quality welding option as seen above. This is because it is used for welding household items that could not be welded using any other simple method of welding.

It is also used for special metals such as copper, aluminum and even can be used to weld two different metals. You can learn TIG welding and use it to make quality products.

Related: Best TIG Welders