If you need to do TIG welding in Cleveland, you’ll soon discover it’s not as easy as it looks. On the surface, it seems like you only need to hold the electrode to the weld area and apply enough heat to the filler rod. However, there’s more to it than that, and these TIG tips can help you become a better welder.
What is TIG?
TIG is another term for gas tungsten arc welding or GTAW. It uses an electric arc transmitted to a non-consumable electrode. The arc is protected by inert gas and this shields the weld from all kinds of contaminants. If not for the shielding effect, the weld would not work, or it would create a weak bond. The welder needs to apply the weld while keeping the filler rod close to the weld site. This kind of welding method works very well for thinner materials like sheet metal, but it’s also used in other applications.
Keep the Power Low for Sheet Metal
If you’re new to TIG welding sheet metal in Cleveland, practice on scrap metal and use as little power as you can. You want to use enough current to create a puddle but not enough to penetrate all the way through the metal. It takes time, and you may ruin several pieces before you get it right.
Not All Tungsten is the Same
Many people choose red tungsten for TIG welding steel, and when they weld aluminum, they switch to green. However, for some aluminum pieces, you’re better off using red tungsten. When you weld aluminum you need to make sure you have just the right tungsten thickness too.
Keep it Clean
The difference between a good weld and a poor weld in Cleveland is cleanliness. Also, don’t contaminate your weld by using the same brush for all your metals.
