A summary of the TIG process
An electric arc is maintained between the non-consumable tungsten electrode and the workpiece. The electrode supports the heat of the arc; the metal of the workpiece melts and forms the weld puddle.
The molten metal of the workpiece and the electrode must be protected against oxygen in the atmosphere; an inert gas such as argon serves as shielding gas. If the addition of filler metal becomes necessary, filler wire can be fed to the weld puddle, where it melts due to the energy delivered by the electric arc.
Advantages
1 - Nearly all metals can be joined
2 - Different kinds of steel, including stainless steel, can be welded, as well as refractory or wear-resistant nickel alloys, aluminium, copper, gold, magnesium, tantalum, titanium, zirconium, and their alloys; even brass and bronze can be welded in certain cases. If filler wire is applied, workpieces consisting of dissimilar alloys or batches can also be joined together.
3 - All welding positions are possible
4 - The process is extremely stable and reliable, consequently, the occurrence of weld defects can be reduced to less than 1%
5 - No slag or fumes are produced during welding
6 - All weld parameters can be adjusted through a wide range, independently of each other
7 - TIG welding can be carried out with or without filler wire
8 - The arc voltage, which is directly related to the arc length, together with the weld current intensity, offer a wide range of variations and can be controlled automatically.
