TIG/WIG Welding
Gas Tungsten Arc Welding (GTAW), known as TIG (Tungsten Inert Gas) or WIG (Wolfram Inert Gas) in Europe, is the premier welding process for applications requiring the highest weld quality. Using a non-consumable tungsten electrode and inert shielding gas, TIG welding delivers unmatched precision and aesthetics.
How TIG/WIG Welding Works
TIG welding uses a non-consumable tungsten electrode to produce the weld arc. The tungsten electrode, weld pool, and surrounding heat-affected zone are protected from atmospheric contamination by an inert shielding gas, typically argon or helium.
Unlike MIG welding, filler metal is added separately by hand or by automatic feed, giving the welder complete control over the heat input and filler deposition. This makes TIG welding ideal for critical applications and thin materials.
TIG vs WIG Terminology
TIG (Tungsten Inert Gas)
American terminology, emphasizing the tungsten electrode and inert gas shielding.
WIG (Wolfram Inert Gas)
European/German terminology, using the German word for tungsten (Wolfram).
Key Parameters
| Parameter | Typical Range |
|---|---|
| Electrode Diameter | 0.5 - 6.4 mm |
| Current Range | 5 - 500 A |
| Gas Flow | 5 - 20 L/min |
| Material Thickness | 0.1 - 10+ mm |
Tungsten Electrode Types
Pure Tungsten
Color Code: Green
AC welding of aluminum and magnesium
Thoriated
Color Code: Red/Yellow
DC welding of steel and stainless
Ceriated
Color Code: Gray
Low-amperage DC applications
Lanthanated
Color Code: Gold/Blue
AC and DC welding, all-purpose
Advantages of TIG/WIG Welding
TIG welding is the choice for applications where quality and precision are paramount.
Superior Quality
Produces the highest quality welds with excellent appearance and minimal defects.
Precise Control
Allows precise control of heat input, ideal for thin materials and critical joints.
No Spatter
Clean process with no spatter, reducing post-weld cleanup requirements.
All Metals
Can weld virtually any metal including exotic alloys and dissimilar materials.
No Flux Required
Shielding gas eliminates the need for flux, preventing slag inclusions.
Visible Arc
Excellent visibility of the weld pool for precise operator control.
Applications
TIG welding excels in applications requiring precision, cleanliness, and exceptional weld quality.
- •Aerospace components
- •Nuclear industry
- •Food and pharmaceutical equipment
- •Precision instruments
- •Thin-wall tubing
- •Automotive exhaust systems
- •Bicycle frames
- •Art and sculpture
Industries
Industries with strict quality requirements rely on TIG welding for their critical fabrication needs.
Related Products
SVS Maverick supplies premium consumables and accessories for TIG/WIG welding applications.
Tungsten Electrodes
Pure tungsten and thoriated, ceriated, lanthanated electrodes for all applications.
Learn MoreTIG Filler Rods
Premium filler metals for TIG welding various materials and alloys.
Learn MoreGas Nozzles & Cups
Ceramic and glass cups for optimal shielding gas coverage.
Learn MoreCollets & Bodies
Precision collets and collet bodies for secure electrode holding.
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