Differences, Benefits, and When To Choose One Over the Other
All welding processes can be boiled down to methods of applying heat to metals beig joined in a controlled manner. But choosing the right welding technique is critical to ensuring the finished product is strong, safe, and meets high-quality specifications.
The most common welding methods found in industrial settings are metal-inert gas (MIG) and tungsten-inert gas (TIG). While MIG and TIG can accomplish the same basic goal, fusing two pieces of metal together, they accomplish that in very different ways.
This process uses a spool of solid steel wire that is fed from a machine through the tip of the weld gun. When the trigger is pulled, the tip creates an electric arc that melts the wire to create a puddle. shield gas flows out of the gun to protect the puddle from atmospheric gases, such as oxygen, hydrogen, and nitrogen, that can degrade the weld and cause defects. MIG is popular in shops and factories and even in homes because the MIG welding process is relatively simple and the machinery can be inexpensive. It can be used on steel, stainless steel, aluminum, and some alloys.
TIG also known as gas tungsten arc welding is a process that uses a tungsten electrode to provide heat and control. It delivers a superior weld, but it requires some special equipment and an experienced welder. TIG welding can join smaller bits of metal, making it ideal for custom repair projects. TIG welding will not create any spatter, which can be very important in custom applications.
CK has supplied MIG and TIG welders for decades.
Although TIG welding can be used on different types of materials, its effectiveness on thicker jobs is limited. MIG welding can be used effectively on 26-gauge sheet metal to heavy-duty structural plates. MIG welding has a distinct advantage over TIG because the wire fed process can deliver a large amount of wire in a short period. Because it is filling rather than fusing, MIG can join two different material thicknesses together.
MIG welding is a simple process compared to TIG welding. For TIG, the tungsten electrode cannot ever touch the weld, which means the operator needs a higher level of experience and training. MIG welding is simple to learn and can be performed after a few weeks of training.
CK Supply has been in the welding business for a long time and we have helped many of our customers adjust their processes to improve quality and save money.
TIG welding machines control heat through amperage control device, giving the operator complete control over how heat is applied to the metalwork. This ability to make continual adjustments is one of the reasons that TIG welding is very precise. In contrast, MIG welders stop when the trigger is released, which is simpler to operate but makes for rougher welds and less heat control.
Examine your processes to make sure you are using the best welding methods. If not, you may find yourself dealing with production line challenges, weld quality issues, and excess consumables. And even things that have worked in the past may benefit from a new perspective.
From new and used equipment to fuel and shield gasses delivered in cylinders or micro bulk, CK Supply is your neighborhood welding supplier. Call us today and find out how we can help you.
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