Welding is one of the essential fabrication procedures that must be handled effectively to get quality products. But, there is more to welding than fusing two or more metals to make the desired item. Welders have to pick an ideal welding technique that will create strong bonds that can hold the product under pressure and prevent weld joint corrosion.
There are two popular welding technologies most welders use today, and that's tungsten inert gas (TIG) and metal inert gas (MIG). Both methods have their pros, but sometimes, one option can outshine the other. So, how do fabricators know when to use each of the methods? Read on to know more.
How do these welding methods work?
It's perfectly normal for most people to confuse the use of a TIG welder and MIG welder. After all, both welding processes rely on electrical arcs to produce the heat that joins the metal parts together. The procedures also use an inert gas to avert corrosion of welding electrodes. However, there are certain differences between these welding procedures that will determine when to use one technique instead of the other.
MIG welding applications
You should consider choosing a MIG welder if you are using thick and large metal pieces for your project. The welding work involved in such a project is massive and detailed and requires welds that can manage long production runs. During the welding process, the filler material that's fed on a spool continuously will connect the metallic pieces, giving you the product you desire. Moreover, you don't have to worry about defects since the welding expert does not start or stop repeatedly. Note that this process may need some soothing or grinding once the welding procedure is complete.
The MIG welding process is more accurate, offers cleaner welds, requires a shorter time, and will cost you less. However, the welding process should not be done indoors due to the production of heavy smoke and fumes. The required material thickness must be met, too.
TIG welding applications
TIG welding is suitable for projects that use small and thinner metals. It offers precise welds and helps you get great products that require minimal cleaning. TIG works with most metals, including copper and aluminium. However, you should not use this method if you are using cast iron for fabrication.
Although most welders prefer using a foot pedal, the method may not be ideal if you are welding smaller areas that have odd angles. It will be better to use finger-tip control to weld correctly. The welding expert also needs to have strong hand-eye coordination and fine motor skills.
To learn more, contact a mobile welder.
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