TIG welding, otherwise known as Tungsten Inert Gas Welding, is a type of welding that uses both tungsten electrode and gas, commonly argon in applying heat to the metal being welded.
The Argon gas shields the metal from airborne contaminants thus producing cleaner, more precise, and high quality welds.
This tungsten electrode and argon gas combination is also quite effective in welding almost all types of metals such as steel, stainless steel, copper, brass among others.
This is a reason why TIG welding is commonly used in welding bike frames, fenders, lawn mowers and similar other products that require strength, durability and clean surfaces.
Another important feature of TIG welding is the necessity to clean first the metal being welded before starting the process.
This aspect is essential in ensuring the prevention of sparks as well as in the emission of smoke.
For metals such as aluminium that is highly vulnerable to contaminants, extra measures must be done to keep it clean.
With respect to sparks, this type of welding likewise enables the welder to estimate the necessary amount of filler metal that must be placed in the welding puddle.
Also, a slag is not needed in the process thereby producing cleaner results.
Still another important feature of this welding process is its flexibility.
The process may be done in any position even overhead; thus, it is usually used in welding inside areas as well as roll cages.
The primary disadvantage of this type of welding is the difficulty of hand-eye coordination on the part of the welder.
It is a process that takes years of practice to learn and master.
Another disadvantage is the hazards it poses to the welder's health if the safety standards are not met.
For one, the process produces increased amounts of ultraviolet rays.
Therefore sufficient eye protection such as the correct shade of lens must be used.
In line with this, proper clothing must also be worn since there is a danger of burning the skin.
Moreover, welding areas should have proper ventilation especially when welding confined portions.
Otherwise, the welder may experience difficulty of breathing or worse may not be able to breathe at all.
Indeed, TIG welding has its share of advantages and disadvantages.
In one hand, it produces high quality, clean and precise welds that are hardly noticeable by the naked eye; thus, it is ideal for products that promote aesthetic appeal as one of its features.
On the other hand, the mastery that the craft entails demands a great deal of practice, experience and focus on the part of the welder.
The entire process likewise poses health hazards that may affect performance in the long run.