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Basic TIG Welding Tips & Techniques for Beginners & Experts

Last updated on June 21st, 2023

TIG welding is defined as the arc welding process in which arc is initiated between non-consumable electrode and workpiece to weld the metals in the most precise way. As it’s the most popular and known process, every welder wants to be an expert in it.

Everyone who tries this method feels that it’s so challenging due to a lack of experience and knowledge. No doubt, it’s a slow process but very effective for thin metals and aluminum. Here are a few fundamental TIG welding tips and methods that will undoubtedly come in handy while you’re working.

Old-timers still call it a Heliarc process.

TIG Welding Tips

GTAW Tips and Tricks

  • Be patient and cool.
  • Buy the best TIG welder according to type of work.
  • Take proper safety precautions like gloves and welding helmets.
  • Setup the process in a well-maintained and professional way.
  • Rub your workpiece with a quality degreaser to remove contaminants.
  • Try to move the torch in proper flow. It should be in a controlled manner with quick forward movement.
  • The gap between the tungsten electrode tip and metals should be consistently small to produce excellent beads. Remember, this requires much practice and a solid grip on the torch.
  • Proper angle is vital for precision. According to experts, a 15-degree angle is perfect, but you can change a little bit according to your position. Make sure the easy reach of the filler rod and visibility area should be apparent.
  • For aluminum welding, use machines that can efficiently work on thin metals. High power can burn thin workpieces.
  • If you’re welding stainless steel, don’t apply much heat. High heat can warp the metal. To avoid this, amperage should be low and torch travelling speed should be fast.
  • Use a separate brush for every material or at least keep three to four brushes.
  • The torch must melt the base metal, and the filler rod must be melted by a molten puddle.
  • Try to work in a comfortable position. Welding in a sitting position is perfect. Take support for your hands and elbow. If any support is not available, you can set up special support bars. In out-of-position work, take a rest after half an hour.

TIG Welding Tips for Beginners

These tips and welding tools are primarily for beginners that are struggling hard to learn. Just keep these few points in mind for better results.

  • As a newbie, always try to work on minimum power. High power can result in the burning of metal.
  • Whether you’re an expert or a beginner, the angle of the torch must be the same. It should be in the range between 15-20 degrees. Strong grip on the torch would result better.
  • I advise starters please take safety precautions seriously. I would advise, practice the TIG welding in a properly ventilated area.
  • Use the perfect tungsten for every metal. For steel metals, always use red tungsten, and green tungsten is recommended for aluminum metals.
  • Before working, clean the metals with a brush.

Related: What to Look for In A TIG Welder? Ultimate Guide

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1. What is the main thing in TIG Welding?

The main thing in this process is heat control. It is the key in this process. For proper heat control, you need practice and a strong grip on the foot pedal. If you accidentally put too much heat on metal, it will burn it. For sensitive metal, low amperage is required with proper setup.

Q2. Which is the most in-demand skill, MIG or TIG?

The most popular and rapidly increasing sector in the world is tungsten inert gas welding. Metal inert gas welding has its applications, and TIG has its own, but in my view, tig welding is in-demand, and experts welders are making a good amount by this skill.

Q3. How can I select the ideal Tig torch for my unit?

Check your welding unit specs and select the torch according to it. There’s much information available, but if you’re looking for precise information, then read the best TIG torch article.

Q4. Which is the tough welding, Steel or Aluminum?

TIG aluminum welding is tough as compared to steel metals.

Q5. How can I learn TIG without going to any institute?

If you wish to learn TIG by yourself, then you may take the help of videos, articles, books, and most important, practice. Practice with consistency will make you perfect.

Q6. How much time does it take to master on TIG?

As it’s a little bit complex and challenging, according to my experience, it will take three to six months.

Josh Rogers

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