Metal inert gag (MIG) and tungsten inert gas (TIG) welding use different machines, setups, and processes to provide similar results. The work environment, materials, supplies, restrictions, and guidelines impact which method is used to create results.
Understanding the differences between MIG and TIG welding can help you make an informed decision about which path to pursue in your welding career. The following details can help.
TIG Welding Basics
TIG welding uses a sharpened electrode inside a torch with a gas lens or nozzle, gas cup, collet body, and back cap:
- The electrode diameter determines the size of the gas lens and collet body.
- The back cap compresses the collet on the tungsten to create a compression-style hold that keeps the tungsten in place.
- A foot pedal typically starts the welding arc.
- The welding arc is regulated by a potentiometer inside the foot pedal.
- A machine setting is used to limit the maximum voltage.
- The material and fitment impact whether the metal can be fused to tack pieces in place.
- Any filler rod is added to the puddle.
- Argon is the most common shielding gas.
- The shielding gas exits through the gas lens or nozzle to the workpiece by the cup at the torch’s end.
- The filler rod and tungsten composition are based on the welded material.
- The voltage capabilities limit the thickness of the metal welded.
- TIG machines that weld in only direct current are unsuitable for aluminum.
MIG Welding Basics
MIG welding involves a torch controlled by a trigger:
- The wire is fed through a lined cable off a spool inside the welder.
- The welding wire exits a tip at the torch’s end.
- MIG welding is effective for tight or awkward spaces.
- Shielding gas flows through the cable and a nozzle to the workpiece.
- The nozzle and tip can be changed for different metals.
- MIG welding aluminum is easier with a spool gun.
- Because aluminum welding wire is flexible, feeding it through the cable can be challenging.
- A spool gun can put a one-pound reel of filler wire inside the gun to decrease bunching and jamming.
- The shielding gas depends on the material.
- The machine’s voltage capacity limits the welding thickness.
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