How does TIG Welding Work?

How does TIG Welding Work?

Tungsten inert gas(TIG) welding is the welding process in which heat is needed. The heat is produced through an intense electric arc. A non-consumable electrode is used that will not melt in the process.

There are different types of welding techniques to connect the metals, and TIG is also one. The TIG joins two metals by melting them under a non-consumable electrode in which inert gases also play a role, and sometimes it is also done without filler.

Mostly filler material is not used; when needed, the welding rod is inserted directly into the weld zone, melts, and fuses into the base metal. TIG is mainly used for welding aluminum alloy And magnesium.

In the process, the workpiece is connected to the positive terminal while the electrode is connected to the negative terminal. The high-intensity arc is generated between the tungsten and workpiece.

A lot of heat energy of the arc comes into action to join the metal plate. Any of the shielding gas such as argon or helium is supplied to guard against oxidation or rusting because of oxygen reaction.

How TIG Welding Works?

Before moving directly onto the working of TIG welding, you must understand  the following things.

Power Source

It is a vital part of TIG welding as you need a high current power source. Generally, in the process of TIG welding, power sources AC and DC are used. But DC (direct current) is needed for stainless steels, mild steel, copper, nickel alloy, etc., whereas AC is required for aluminum alloy and magnesium. The power source comprises a transformer, a rectifier, and electronic controls.

TIG Torch

TIG torch plays an important role in TIG welding. The torch consists of tungsten electrode collection and nozzle, which either may be water-cooled or air-cooled. The collet grips tightly the electrode. The nozzle flows shield gas into the welding zone to prevent oxidization. The nozzle needs to be replaced frequently as it damages due to a high level of heat.

Shielding Gas

Mostly argon or helium are used for shielding welding zone. These gases protects the metal from oxidation etc. The gases  flows into the welding zone through regulatory system.

Filler Material

No filler is required in thin sheets and filler is used for welding of thick matter.

TIG Welding Process

The low voltage high current is supplied via power to the tungsten electrode. The electrode is connected to a negative terminal in the process, and the workpiece is connected to the positive terminal.

The current produces a spark between the non-consumable tungsten electrode and the workpiece, which helps the electric generate an intense arc resultantly base metal melts and forms welding joint.

To prevent oxidization pressure valve and regulate valve flows, the shielding gas covering the weld thus oxygen and other reactive gases could not enter for a chemical reaction.

Moreover, the shielded gas produces plasma which intensifies the heating arc for perfect welding. However, when the filler is needed for welding thick joints, some filler material is injected manually into welding.

Things to Keep in Mind while Welding

• Always wear protective gear.
• To know the machine you are operating.
• Work in a ventilated area.
• Use the right type of current.
• Learn welding from a professional if you are a beginner.

Lets look onto the above points briefly

Welding is one of the toughest jobs to perform. It requires a lot of experience and patience. Above all, the job of welding involves a lot of risk and danger. So while performing such a job, safety must be a priority.

While performing a welding job, you are exposed to fumes and gases that can be harmful to you and your body. So it would help if you kept in mind a few things before doing the task.

The right gear for welding work is a must thing. The welding gear includes a welding helmet, glasses, gloves, and welding jackets, etc.

Besides wearing the proper gear, the next thing you have to do is to possess sufficient knowledge about the welding work and welder machine. So it is necessary to be well aware of all the instructions to operate the appliance, which can save you from any mishap.

Another precaution you should take while performing a welding job is proper ventilation. During welding work, you are very close to fumes and gases; therefore, the welding job must be performed in a properly ventilated area.  In this way, the toxic gases and fumes will evaporate quickly in the air.

There are two types of current AC and DC. Both types of currents, AC and DC, are required for welding different types of materials. As DC is used for welding steel while AC is used for welding Aluminum, ensure choosing the right type of current for welding.

The last precaution is never to try to teach welding yourself. If you are not familiar with welding, then avoid practicing the welding on your own.

It is advisable to join a training institute and learn welding from expert instructors as a welding job is not easy in which you are exposed to spark and fumes, and gases.

Advantages of TIG Welding

Some of the advantages of TIG welding are as follow

• TIG welding can weld both steel, aluminum, etc.
• When you grasp the TIG welder technique properly, you will know that welding can be done with perfect precision.
• TIG welding allows performing welding in multiple positions such as upward, downward to the sides, or a congested corner. This advantage of TIG welding gives it an edge over other welding processes as it caters to different situations.