AC/DC TIG Welders

TIG welding is an arc welding process that uses a non-consumable tungsten electrode to produce the weld. A shielding gas is used to protect the weld pool from atmospheric gases such as oxygen and nitrogen.

For more process information, view our welding process guide.

TIG welding is commonly used in industries such as aerospace, cleanroom applications, electronics, and art. Where the quality and appearance of the results are critical.

Using a shielding gas with a TIG welder is recommended to help protect the weld pool. Preventing contamination affecting the quality, appearance, and performance of the weld.

The gas you would use for TIG welding depends on the material and application. Argon is the most common shielding gas, suitable for a wide range of materials. Others include helium, an argon-helium mix, and acetylene.

Some common differences between choosing a TIG welder or a MIG welder include the skill level needed, TIG welding requires a higher skill level and more precise control than a MIG welder.

A TIG welder is used for applications that need high-quality, precision welds across a variety of ferrous and non-ferrous metals. Whereas a MIG welder is more favourable when speed and efficiency are more important.

Furthermore, TIG welds are clean and produce minimal spatter, however MIG welding produces a wider weld bead with significantly more spatter.

The choice of filler metal in TIG welding depends on various factors. These include the base metal, application, and the specific requirements of the weld. Common filler metals include ER70S series, particularly ER70S-6 for mild steel welding. As well as ER308 for 304 stainless steel, and ER4043 for the majority of aluminium applications. 

This video from Miller is really helpful for additional information on selecting your tungsten, and preparation.

The best TIG welder to use for welding aluminium is an AC/DC machine. The positive cycle of alternating current breaks up oxides limiting weld quality, with the negative cycle achieving the weld penetration.

A TIG welder can be used for welding a variety of metals. The versatility of the TIG welding process means a range of metals including steel, stainless steel, chromoly, and aluminium can be welded. Other exotic materials can also be welded with a TIG welder, such as nickel alloys, magnesium, copper, brass, bronze and even gold!

TIG welding is considered one of the hardest welding processes. This is due to the precision, preparation and patience required to complete successful TIG welds. It also requires the use of both hands, and these must be steady to get the desired results. So it can take a while for beginners to get used to the technique!

There are some really useful YouTube videos to help you on your way, including this one from Weld.com