MIG is the go-to method for novice welders, as it’s relatively easy to master and showcases many fundamental aspects of the industry. After honing their skills, welders can move onto methods such as TIG, which is tougher to learn, but yields impressive results. To make the most out of your first attempt, use these top tips for TIG welding successfully.
Never Neglect Cleanliness
TIG welding has a reputation for producing clean, attractive final products. However, contaminants on the metal can literally ruin the weld. For example, welding dirty metal promotes porosity, hurting your final product’s appearance and structural integrity. Contaminants frequently present on metal workpieces include rust, grease, dirt, and oil. Typically, cleaning the metal with acetone before removing additional impurities with a wire brush will help you get the job done. Not only does the workpiece need care and preparation, but so does your personal protective equipment (PPE.)
Always Inspect Your PPE
Welding produces many types of toxic fumes, and the TIG method is certainly no exception. To protect themselves from the harmful fumes, welders must wear industry-specific respirators while using the TIG method. Likewise, this welding method calls for all the essentials—welding helmet, safety goggles, fireproof/cuffless/pocketless attire, and so forth. Not only do you need to obtain the right PPE, but also consistently inspect every piece before welding. Even small holes in the respirator or fireproof pants can spell disaster while you’re working. If one chunk of hot metal slips through a hole in your pants, that’s all the access it needs to cause injuries.
Find Your Angle
A list of top tips for TIG welding successfully isn’t complete without addressing torch angle. TIG welding is challenging to newcomers because it requires a more precise execution than MIG projects do. For example, holding your torch to the workpiece at a specific angle minimizes the chances of imperfections contaminating the weld. Since TIG weld is a means of accomplishing clean welds, avoiding contaminants is essential. The general rule of thumb among welders is to stick to a 15-degree angle. By carefully moving the torch while maintaining the 15-degree angle, you can achieve the clean look that makes TIG welding so beloved.
