TIG welding uses a tungsten electrode to create an arc between metals, with shielding gas to prevent oxidation. Argon is the preferred gas and steel and aluminum are commonly used. Different joint types can be welded, with a filler rod used for heavy metals.
Tungsten Inert Gas (TIG) welding is the process of mixing reactive metals, such as magnesium and aluminum. During the welding process an arc is formed between a pointed tungsten electrode and the area to be welded. A shielding gas is used to help create a clean weld, as it prevents oxidation. The welding method became popular and useful in the early 1940’s and as a result, greatly promoted the use of aluminum for welding and structural processes. It is commonly used for both high quality and manual welding.
The type of shielding gas typically used for TIG welding is argon, helium, or a combination of both. When combined, these two gases can provide increased weld speed and weld penetration. Argon is usually preferred by most welders simply because it is heavier than air and provides better coverage when welding.
Using the TIG welding process, a person can do a variety of types of welding on a number of different metals, although steel and aluminum are the most commonly used. A filler rod, usually made of the same material as the base metal, is used to strengthen joints and weld heavy metals.
There are several types of joints designed for use with this welding method, including butt joints, lap joints, corner joints, and tee joints. The butt joint, which can be welded without the aid of a rod filling, involves joining two pieces of metal along the seams. With a lap joint, the top edge is welded to the bottom piece in an area between the two overlapping metals. A corner joint involves welding one piece of metal at right angles to the edge of a second piece of metal to form an angle. The T joint is created by placing a piece of metal perpendicular to another piece of metal to form a T shape and requires a filler rod. This type of welding is performed along both sides of the perpendicular seam.
Protect your devices with Threat Protection by NordVPN
