What are TIG Welders
Sunday, November 23rd, 2008When most think of welding, they think of joining two pieces of metal together, and that’s about it. However, welding is a vast profession with many different types of welding – and welder – niches. One of those is TIG welding, which is done by TIG welders.
TIG Welding Defined
TIG is the acronym for Tungsten Inert Gas. It is a process whereby a TIG welder uses a tungsten electrical conductor to create the weld. This type of welding is also referred to as Gas Tungsten Arc Welding, or GTAW. Don’t be thrown if you hear this phrase. It’s still TIG welding.
The Job of a TIG Welder Explained
The TIG welding process is quite fascinating, requiring a skilled TIG welder to properly complete it. As mentioned above, TIG welding uses a tungsten electrical conductor to create the weld.
TIG welding is a form of arc welding. It is so because the heat generated in TIG welding comes from an electric “arc” that is maintained between the tungsten electrode and the piece that is being welded.
A TIG welder is a highly sought after professional because the process can be dangerous. For example, a TIG welder must know how to manipulate the heat input when welding so as not to produce slag or splatter. This can be done via foot or hand amperage controls.
Another key component that makes TIG welding so dangerous is that there is a constant power current in TIG welding. This is one of the reasons it requires a super-clean surface for working.
For all of these reasons and quite a few more, a TIG welder must be meticulous and organized in how he/she mans his workstation.
The Birth of the TIG Welder
TIG welding became popular during World War II, when aircraft and other war paraphernalia was being churned out en masse. Primarily driven by the aircraft industry during this time, because of the efficiency of it, it quickly expanded to other industries – eg, automotive.