TIG Welding

Introduction
Q: How many of you have ridden a bike? Did you know that it is TIG welded? Have you ever looked at how it is held together?

Introduction Cont.
TIG welding is considered highly artistic. The fine detail and quality of the welds produced depend on the artist. However TIG welding is used to weld mild steel, aluminum, and stainless steel.

TIG Welding
In TIG welding an arc is formed between a no consumable tungsten electrode and the metal being welded. Gas is fed through the torch to shield the electrode and molten weld pool. If filler wire is used, it is added to the weld pool separately.

TIG Machines

Foot Control

Ground

torch

Regulator Argon 100%

Torch
Back Cap

Tungsten Rod

Ceramic Tip

Foot Control
Practice controlling the heat with the foot pedal to see the weld puddle increase and decrease. Ideally, you want your weld puddle to be about 1/4 inch wide. Keep your puddle size consistent so it doesn't grow, shrink, spread or narrow while you are welding.

Tungsten Types
2% Thoriated Tungsten RED Generally used for DC negative or straight polarity applications, this is the most common type of electrode used today. Provides excellent resistance from weld pool contamination, easier arc starting capabilities and a more stable arc. Contains 2% weight of thorium oxide (ThO2). Most common metals used for include: Carbon and Stainless Steel, Nickel Alloys, and Titanium. Pure Tungsten - GREEN Used for AC welding applications. provide good arc stability. Typically the least expensive tungsten, but is more suitable to weld contamination than thoriated and lanthanated. Contains a minimum of 99.5% weight tungsten with no other alloys. Most common metals used for include: Aluminum and Magnesium Alloys (AC).

Tungsten Types
2% Ceriated Tungsten Orange Used for AC or DC welding applications. An excellent alternative to Thoriated tungsten especially in low amperage welding. Takes approximately 10% less current to initiate arc and has a very stable arc. Not a radioactive material and tends to last longer than thoriated. Contains 2% weight of Cerium Oxide (CeO2). Most common metals used for include: Carbon and Stainless Steels, Nickel Alloys and Titanium.

Most Common Tungsten Rods

Tungsten Rod Preparation

Torch and Filler Positioning

Welding Operation

Proper Clothing
Long sleeve Shirt no frayed edges Cotton pants with no frayed edges Welding Gloves Close toe shoes Welding Helmet Not Automatic Shield Preferably 10 or higher due to bright arch

Lets Get Started

Get dressed Get a welding helmet and meet me at the set up station Demonstrate proper arc length, torch angle, and filler rod feeding After shop-work, a quiz will be given over the parts of the welder

Summary
What is the importance of a properly prepared tungsten rod? 1. Properly prepared rods focus the electrical current better making a stronger more efficient weld 2. it is important to know because the different metals it will weld and the preparation for them 3. almost in all welding applications

Why is it good to know the differences in rod color and use? How can tig welding be used?

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