TIG welding at affordable prices
Tungsten inert gas (TIG) welding or Gas tungsten arc welding (GTAW) as it is also known, is a popular arc welding process that produces a weld via a non-consumable tungsten electrode. An inert gas such as argon or helium flows through the weld area. The inert gas helps to protect the metal from oxygen contamination in the environment and also allows for better control over the weld puddle. TIG welding is often used on thinner materials and for more intricate welding jobs. The process is relatively slow, and the operator must have good control of the torch and the filler metal in order to produce a quality weld.
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Metal polishing designed to deliver those beautiful smooth surfaces.
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Zinc galvanisation to protect your steel from corrosion and rust.
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Powder coating to improve uniformity, durability & appearance.
What are the advantages of Tig welding over Arc welding?
Gas Tungsten Arc Welding (GTAW), commonly known as TIG welding, boasts several advantages over other types of arc welding. It showcases impressive abilities in welding high-strength materials, handling exceedingly thin material thicknesses, and achieving outstanding finish quality. This versatility extends to the welding of diverse metals such as copper, aluminium, and specialty alloys. These attributes position TIG welding as a trusted choice in industries demanding precision welding, including aerospace, automotive, and medical fields.
Despite these strengths, TIG welding does present a few challenges. It tends to be a slower process compared to other arc welding methods. Furthermore, it places a greater demand on the welder’s skill, requiring careful control over the welding power supply, filler metal, and the angle of the welding torch.
The setup for TIG welding, though simple in comparison to other techniques, may still require specific tools depending on the project at hand. A welding machine generates the electrical current necessary to heat the tungsten electrode, which in turn creates an arc with the material to be welded. Safety is paramount during this process, with the use of protective gear such as a welding helmet, gloves, and fire-resistant clothing being a necessity. The production of a high-quality weld also necessitates the use of welding rods, fluxes, and shielding gases like argon. Ensuring good weld penetration and maintaining the weld pool are also integral parts of the process. All these factors underline the importance of skill and precision in TIG welding, making it a valuable asset in the welding industry.
What is TIG welding used for?
TIG welding is used in a wide range of applications, particularly those that require precision and strength. It is often used in the aerospace, automotive and medical industries to join materials like aluminium, stainless steel, brass and copper alloys. Additionally, it can be used on thin sheet metal fabrication jobs such as fuel tanks and car body panels that require a high-quality finish.
TIG welding is also used in applications that require welds with smooth and consistent edges, such as the fabrication of handrails and other structures. It is also often used for maintenance and repair jobs, where heat input must be kept to a minimum to avoid damage to the nearby area.
TIG welding is a versatile and precise arc welding process that can be used to join many different materials with excellent results. With proper training, it can create high-quality welds in difficult-to-reach areas. The TIG welding experts at BLV Engineering can create strong and long-lasting results in many different applications. We also specialise in other forms of welding such as MIG Welding and Spot Welding.
Is TIG welding the hardest?
Yes, TIG welding is often considered one of the more challenging methods to master because it requires a high degree of precision and control. The difficulty level of any welding technique, including TIG welding, can depend on several factors such as the welder’s skill level, experience, and the specific application or materials being welded.
TIG welding requires the welder to use both hands and sometimes a foot pedal to control the welding torch, filler metal, and welding power supply simultaneously. This coordination, along with managing the weld pool and shielding gas, can be a complex process to learn and execute effectively. Additionally, achieving a high-quality weld with TIG, especially on materials like stainless steel or aluminium, requires a deep understanding of welding parameters and techniques.
That said, with proper training, practice, and the right welding equipment, it is possible to become proficient in TIG welding. Many welding schools and welding certification programs provide comprehensive training in TIG welding because of its widespread use in industries that demand high precision and quality, such as the aerospace, automotive, and medical industries.
So, while TIG welding may be challenging to learn and master, it is certainly not insurmountable and offers great rewards in terms of skill development and professional opportunities in the welding industry.
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