When it comes to metal fabrication projects that require welded parts, your options are pretty far-ranging. Welding is a crucial pillar in the manufacturing process but can integrate any one of a dozen different methods, muddying the water somewhat.
Two of the most popular processes are MIG and TIG welding. But what is the difference between the two? Both share many aspects in common, after all, producing heat and bonding metal with electric arcs. Both processes work a mixture of inert gasses into the process in order to prevent corrosion of the welding electrode.
Unfamiliar with MIG and TIG welding, or just need a short refresher? Read on for our full breakdown of the differences between MIG and TIG welding.
How Do The Processes Work?
Let’s get the basics out of the way: MIG stands for metallic inert gas. It’s used in a process where a metallic wire feeds continuously into the weld as it’s being done. This material fills in and helps to bond the two metal objects.
Meanwhile, or inert tungsten gas, or TIG, integrates a non-consumable tungsten electrode into the process. A current passes through the materials, facilitating the weld, with filler metals being entirely optional during the project.
In both MIG and TIG welding, a blanket of inert gas is used to protect the molten weld pool from the atmosphere. Both techniques bring their own benefits and drawbacks, and each one has its own appropriate uses. They’re not interchangeable. MIG works extremely well in larger projects, where TIG is more suited to a smaller project. It’s also great for less common metals like gold, nickel, and brass.
What Sets These Processes Apart?
MIG Welding reduces the incidence of weld imperfections in pauses and intervals. It’s also easier than TIG welding, with its unwound wire feeding straight into the weld pool for efficient filling.
TIG applies to ferrous and non-ferrous welding, including a wide range of thicknesses up to 8mm. This process may be slower, but the end result is a high-quality weld with great definition, whether in aluminum or carbon and stainless steel.
If your focus is easy-to-use implementation, MIG welding is definitely more suitable and certainly more forgiving of errors. TIG welding requires more precise control, pressure, and current during the weld, though the results are excellent for thinner metal.
MIG and TIG Welding
There’s a huge variety of metal fabrication projects out there – it’s a technique that applies to dozens of industries depending on your needs. MIG and TIG welding are both central to a lot of manufacturing, but it’s important to know what you’re using them for and why.
Looking for more insights into MIG and TIG welding, or the services of a qualified metal fab professional? Visit Megstar Industries, today, to find out more!