Tungsten Inert Gas (TIG) Welding

An arc is truck between a tungsten electrode (non-consumable) and the sheet metal to be welded. An inert gas shields the arc from the ambient to prevent oxidation. A filler material is optional Carbon steels, low alloy steels, stainless steels, most aluminum alloys, zinc based copper alloys can be welded using this process.

TIG is quite suitable for welding dissimilar materials, but usual cautions of galvanic corrosion still apply. The surface to be welded needs to be clean and degreased and any foreign debris should be removed. In the case of hot-rolled steel or aluminum, wire brushing may need to be done to remove scales and oxides, for the highest quality welds.

Weld distortion occurs whenever a weld is done. This can be minimized by spacing the weld tacks at least 50 mm (2 in) apart. Welding distortion can also be minimized by fixturing (and clamping) while welding as well as heat sinking.