This article discusses the basics of the Tungsten Inert Gas welding process or more commonly known as the TIG welding process and its equipment. The TIG welding procedure is named by its Tungsten electrode, the name Tungsten is derived from the name of the steel gray metal found in many ores. This metal is durable in that is said to have the highest melting point.

The TIG method of welding is known for how it holds the unique ability to form heat that creates an arc of electricity between the tungsten electrode and the material being welded. Normally, the filler metal is fed into the molten metal pool, while TIG welding.

This method of welding is usually a process that uses an air or water cooled torch that will keep the tungsten electrode or rod in place while connected to the TIG Welder.

The TIG welder equipment comes with four basic components:

•    The Welding torch is hand held by the welder.
•    The power supply delivers current to the torch.
•    The electrode delivers the current from the torch to the point of contact on the metal.
•    The shielding gas is used to guard the material from damage from gases and stability.

The Welding torch is connected to the power supply unit by hoses that carry not only the power, but the shielding gas sources and some even deliver the torch water. The torch is usually heat resistant with material to insulate the device from heat and electricity, along with protecting the welder.

The power supply is the heart of the job and is the most heavily depended on part. There are some TIG welder power supply units that are equipped with alternating current charges. The alternating power surges are great in that if they were constant it might cause the tungsten electrode to overheat.

The electrode is made of a tungsten alloy or metal and has been termed non consumable because it can withstand very high heat. The term non consumable means that it wont be destroyed during the process, but can experience some burn off.

The shielding gas or gases are protectors of the metal, from such gases as nitrogen and oxygen. These gases will cause defects in the product or material being welded by the welder. This gas usually transfers heat to the metal by the electrode and thus creates the arc of electricity.

The TIG welding, as with all welding procedures, must be used keeping all safety precautions in mind. The protective gear needed for most welding procedures such as: the goggles, protective leather gloves and outerwear, and welding helmet are essential to anyone using the equipment.

If you are in the market for any TIG welding equipment, look for those that are approved by Engineers, look for brands that have the GTAW in quality standards.

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Tags: TIG welding, Welders, welding equipment, welding machine