Guide to TIG Equipment and Supplies

Tungsten Inert Gas (TIG) welding is a precise and versatile welding process that requires specialized equipment and supplies. Here is a guide to the essential TIG equipment and supplies needed to get started with TIG welding.

TIG Welder

The TIG welder is the most important piece of equipment needed for TIG welding. It is the machine that provides the electrical current to heat the metal and melt the filler rod. TIG welders come in various sizes and power ratings, and the choice of machine depends on the type and thickness of metal being welded.

  • How To Choose the Right Welder for Your Needs (MIG, Stick, and TIG)

    • TIG Torch

    The TIG torch is the hand-held tool that directs the heat from the TIG welder to the metal being welded. The TIG torch is connected to the TIG welder by a cable and is controlled by a foot pedal that regulates the welding current. TIG torches come in various sizes, with the choice depending on the type and thickness of metal being welded.

    Tungsten Electrodes

    Tungsten electrodes are the conductors that provide the electrical current to heat the metal being welded. Tungsten electrodes come in various sizes and compositions, with the choice depending on the type and thickness of metal being welded. Tungsten electrodes are sharpened to a point and must be kept clean and free of contaminants to prevent contamination of the weld.

  • Welding Electrodes & Filler Rods Explained

    • Filler Rod

    Filler rod is the metal rod used to add material to the weld. Filler rod comes in various sizes and compositions, with the choice depending on the type and thickness of metal being welded. The filler rod must be compatible with the base metal being welded and should be kept clean and free of contaminants to prevent contamination of the weld.

    Gas Regulator

    The gas regulator is used to regulate the flow of shielding gas to the TIG torch. The shielding gas is necessary to protect the weld from atmospheric contamination and must be compatible with the type of metal being welded. The gas regulator is connected to a gas cylinder that contains the shielding gas.

    Shielding Gas

    The shielding gas is used to protect the weld from atmospheric contamination. The choice of shielding gas depends on the type of metal being welded. Argon is the most common shielding gas used for TIG welding, but other gases such as helium or a mixture of gases can be used for specific applications.

    Welding Table

    A welding table is a flat surface used to support the metal being welded. Welding tables come in various sizes and can be made of steel, aluminum, or other materials. Welding tables should be clean and free of contaminants to prevent contamination of the weld.

    Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)

    Personal protective equipment is essential when TIG welding. PPE includes a welding helmet with a shade appropriate for the welding current, gloves made of leather or other heat-resistant materials, a welding apron or jacket, and safety glasses or goggles.

    In conclusion, TIG welding requires specialized equipment and supplies to create precise and strong welds. The TIG welder, TIG torch, tungsten electrodes, filler rod, gas regulator, shielding gas, welding table, and personal protective equipment are all essential components of TIG welding. By choosing the right equipment and supplies and following proper welding techniques, welders can create high-quality TIG welds that meet the needs of their specific welding projects.