Your Best Guide On Tungsten Welding Is Right Here
The process of connecting two separate pieces of metal can be accomplished in various ways, but welding is one of the most efficient methods known to man. And, when it comes to welding, tungsten inert gas or TIG is probably the most popular procedure in today’s metal industry. Since this type of welding offers a lot of useful characteristics, it quickly found its purpose in many different areas, and we use TIG tungsten welding in aviation, bicycle production, or even dentistry.
What Exactly Is Tungsten?
Tungsten is a rare material with incredible features, and one of its dominant characteristics is the fact that tungsten has the highest melting point of any other metal on Earth (3.410º C). Because of this, we can use this material in our welding rods, and these non-consumable electrodes are used in combination with electric arcs to make connections between the two pieces of metal.
Also, a filler metal is typically added into the mix, and master welders usually add it in the form of wire to create seamless and super-clean welding spots. Tungsten electrodes often contain some other element as well, including thorium, lanthanum, zirconium, or cerium, and with this combination — the welding process can be highly stable and precise.
The Actual Process Of TIG Welding
Since inert gasses are used during the welding process, predominantly argon and helium, welders have to take care of this element as well. Other than that, the power supply is their main preoccupation, and they can regulate the flow of current by a leg pedal in most cases. TIG welding can successfully connect various materials, but it is mostly used when welding stainless steel, and light metals, such as aluminum or magnesium.
The process of welding with tungsten method releases a significant amount of ultraviolet light, but aside from that — no other side effects are present. In other words, there is no smoke or too many fumes, and no flux or slag is present either. Welders can hold the tungsten welding rod like a pen, and this allows for great control and precision when performing the task at hand.
