Welding: MIG Versus TIG
Comments Off on Welding: MIG Versus TIGWelding is a core component of metal fabrication. It is the process of joining metals using a fusion process where the base metals are melted together using a filler material to form them joint. This is a high-temperature process and can be performed by hand or through robotic welders.
Two commonly used welding methods are known as TIG and MIG. The final outcome for both joins metals together but the processes and material are different and there are advantages and disadvantages to both. In this post we will look at each method’s pros and cons.
TIG welding or Tungsten inert gas process that uses a non-consumable tungsten electrode to make the weld. TIG comes from Tungsten, Inert Gas and the weld area is shielded from atmospheric contamination by a gas such as argon or helium. TIG welding requires the welding rod to be slowly fed into the weld puddle.
MIG welding or metal inert gas uses a gun to continuously feed the welding wire into the joint to burn, melt, and fuse the pieces together. Atmospheric contamination is prevented by flowing an argon-based shielding gas or an argon-carbon dioxide mix over the weld puddle.
Let’s compare the two methods:
| TIG | MIG |
| Cleaner, less fumes and sparks | More sparks and fumes |
| Less contamination, higher precision | |
| Good for thin material, can be used with no filler | Welds a wide range of material |
| Longer setup, not user-friendly | Less setup, easier and more forgiving welds |
| Welds cost more and take longer | More accessible equipment reduced costs |
| More complex and requires more skill | Easier to learn and makes quicker welds |
| Can weld many different types of metals | Most often used with carbon steel, stainless, aum |
At Ohio Valley we provide in-house welding services that cover all projects from design and building to checking fixtures and production. Using material handling robots enables us to offer a cost effective solution and we are equipped to handle high-volume automation.
Contact us today to learn about Ohio Valley’s robotic welding service and TIG vs MIG welding operations.