TIG welding, also known as tungsten inert gas or gas tungsten arc welding, is one of the most popular welding methods. The process requires a high level of skill to use but it results in extremely high-quality welds. Here’s what you need to know about the process to decide if it’s the right choice for your project.

What to Know About TIG Welding

How It’s Done

The welder uses a nonconsumable tungsten electrode — which will not melt — to create an arc with the base metal. An inert shielding gas, often argon, is used to protect both the weld pool and the electrode from oxygen contamination. As the weld pool begins to form on the base metal, the technician feeds a thin wire of filler metal into the pool.

Why It’s Unique

TIG welding offers a high degree of control. The welder can soft start or soft stop the heat. The control switch, operated either at the thumb or foot, allows the worker to completely control the heat and precision. The TIG welder is also thin, which provides accuracy with little cleanup needed at the completion of the project.

When to Use It

TIG welding is used across a wide range of industries but is best known for its use on spacecraft and airplanes. It’s also often employed in auto repair shops and by artists in precise sculpture welding. The precision of the process makes it ideal for working with curves or details on the surface of the metal. It can be used for diverse types of metals, such as magnesium, stainless steel, and aluminum.

If you have a project in either metal fabrication or repair welding, TIG welding done by an expert can give you the best possible result. The experts at Nadler Welding & Repair Shop in Wentzville, MO, have served St. Charles and Warren counties since 1951 and can fix or fabricate just about anything. Call (636) 327-4404 for an estimate and visit them online for more on their services.