TIG welding (tungsten-inert gas) or GTAV welding (gas-tungsten electric arc welding) according to AVS nomenclature, is a welding technique that involves the use of soluble tungsten electrodes, protected by inert gas, with or without metal contributions.

This is one of the most popular methods, because it guarantees a very high quality of joints, but requires the use of highly specialized experts.

TIG welding equipment includes:

• welding machine or power generator
• burner consisting of tungsten electrode and carrier, shielding gas nozzle, insulating jacket, power supply
• shielding gas bottle

The welding process is based on bringing the electrode around which the shielding gas flows into the melting pool thanks to the burner.

The operator, moving freely and maintaining the appropriate distance, can weld the material: “braid” is a classic result of this technique, which, given the quality and aesthetic value, is often used when the weld remains visible.

Blowtorch

No special machines are required for TIG welding: you can simply use a DC generator to weld some materials.

However, this does not apply to all metals: to work on aluminum, magnesium and bronze, you need a professional welding machine on which you can choose between direct or alternating current.

Advantages and disadvantages of TIG welding

The advantages of this mode of operation are undoubtedly large sealing of welding joints and aesthetic result, as well as excellent penetration. On the other hand, it is not without its drawbacks: it is a slow process and risks porosity, as well as great processing difficulties that require the use of highly qualified personnel.