Today, there are many different ways to weld metal, and before you start each welding task, all you have to do is decide which welding method to use. Although TIG welding is generally not for beginners, it can deliver fantastic welding effects and results for specific projects. As you are reading this article here, you are definitely interested in learning about or using this particular type of welder - TIG torch, and having a comprehensive understanding of TIG welding is worth your time.

 

 

 

What Is TIG Welding?

TIG welding refers to Tungsten Inert Gas (TIG) welding, also commonly known as Gas Tungsten Arc Welding (GTAW), which is a popular form of welding that uses a non-consumable tungsten electrode to heat the metal, with or without filler. TIG welding is a highly versatile welding technology that allows professionals and welding workers to join and connect a variety of small and thin metal materials. Therefore, it is ideal for a wide range of applications, including aerospace, pharmaceutical, manufacturing and many more industries.

 

 

What Makes TIG Welding So Popular?

TIG welding is much slower than MIG welding, requiring longer lead times and higher production costs. However, why is TIG welding still so popular? As we all know, the welding strength of TIG welding is greatly dependent on the operator's skill. That's why the operator generally needs highly specialized training to ensure the precision and accuracy of welding. Nevertheless, the advantages of TIG welding are remarkable that cannot be covered - it provides better control in the welding operation to create stronger, more precise and good-looking welds.

 

 

How Does a TIG Torch Work?

In addition to the excellent skills required of the operator, the reliable TIG torch is another factor that affects the welding process. The working principle of the TIG welder is to use a tungsten electrode to deliver current to the metal to be welded. During this process, the electric and the filler are both protected by an inert gas.

 

 

How to Choose the Best TIG Torch Based on Your Needs?

In this part, we are going to list discuss the things that you need to look for when choosing the TIG torch.

 

Duty Cycle

Whether it is MIG torch, TIG torch or MMA torch, 60% has long been considered as the industry standard. That means take 10 minutes as a benchmark, the working time of the torch is 6 minutes, the rest of the time - 4 minutes is the cooldown time. The duty cycle of the welding torch is separate from the welding machine. Therefore, it is vital to figure out the duty cycle ratios of the welding torch before making a purchase decision.

 

Hand-held water cooled TIG welding torch

 

Air Cooled or Water Cooled

It is evident that the air cooled TIG torch with a fan inside that is cooled by air, and the water cooled TIG torch is hooked up to a water cooler unit. Water cooled torches have a higher duty cycle and will last longer before heating up. According to the experienced welders, each of these two cooling solutions has its own advantages and disadvantages.

 

The air cooled TIG welding torch is ideal for use in remote locations, outdoors or where water is not accessible. On the one hand, it can save money on cooling. On the other hand, it can provide the flexibility to move easily from one workplace to another.

 

The limitation of air cooled torch can be exposed when working on large projects, and it may become too hot to grip. The air needs to cool sufficiently before the welding work can continue. As a result, the water cooled TIG torch is perfect for handling small, precise welds that need to be carried out continuously.

 

 

Conclusion

You need two things - a TIG torch and a welding machine to ensure the smooth running of TIG welding. And some TIG torch fittings are also essential for TIG torch assembly, such as the ceramic nozzle with external barrier decrease the running temperature to improve power to weight ratio. And highly effective TIG torch collet can maximize conductivity and extend consumable life.

 

As a professional welding torch manufacturer and supplier in China, GET STAR WELD offers high-performance TIG torches, custom TIG torch holders, and a wide range of torch accessories at affordable prices. Everything you need about welding, it's all here. If you want more information about our welding machines, please feel free to contact us at info@getstarweld.com.