Welding is one of the most important trades in the world when it comes to structural design. The differences between TIG and MIG welding vary from how each metal reacts to the experience needed for each. Knowing how they differ and other professional tips from Mig Welding Expert can help you find the right gear for the job.
What Is MIG Welding?
Also referred to as metal inert gas welding, MIG welding requires a heated wire that works as a filler. It’s an easier option regarding control and is often seen as being more efficient.
The two main components of this task are an electrode and a heated wire. The electrode is essential for offering a faster weld since it joins two metal pieces without having to heat the metal itself. For example, if you have two carbon steel sheets, you join them with the material in the middle rather than the steel. You can visit this site to learn more about it as it is known as a wonderful source of information for welders.
The Advantages of MIG Welding
Working with MIG welding is far easier and quicker than TIG welding. Since there’s no need for the welder to handle metal heated to obscene temperatures, it speeds up workflow. An added benefit of MIG welding is that it efficiently provides structurally sound welds by minimizing thermal extraction.
Professionals also don’t have to worry about metal contraction with this process. It’s also preferred when dealing with thick metals, as you don’t need to heat substantial pieces of material.
If you want a type of welding that is the most forgiving, this is the option to choose. You won’t have to worry about controlling your electric current, timing, and pressure. Also, materials are far less likely to warp or crack since they cool, making it great for first-time users.
The Disadvantages of MIG Welding
Although MIG welding is more straightforward, there are a couple of disadvantages to consider as well. The welds using this process aren’t as precise as with a more customized process like TIG welding.
Also, you have limitations in regards to the metal filler you use. Your metal filler will need to be homogenous with the material you’re working on. For example, carbon steel requires carbon steel filler, which means you’ll need an assortment of materials available at all times.
Using the same metals for your filler, you’ll also notice the weld marks will be significantly larger than with TIG welds.
What Is TIG Welding?
Tungsten inert gas welding is a go-to option for an assortment of industry professionals. Instead of using a metal filler, this process can use the tungsten electrode to heat metals to weld directly together. For example, you’ll be heating the metal on your two sheets of carbon steel so contractors can join them.
With that said, you can opt to use a filler material, depending on the type of weld. Compared to MIG welding, TIG welding uses autogenous materials at shorter lengths.
The Advantages of TIG Welding
Precision is the most notable benefit of TIG welding since contractors can precisely join metals together. It’s also the go-to process when dealing with thin and small materials, like stainless steel. You’ll be able to manage a higher-quality weld with thin metals because there won’t be excess filler to deal with.
TIG welding is great for contractors who prefer having heightened control over their projects. Although it results in higher production costs and longer lead times with less efficient workflow, it’s ideal for aesthetics. You won’t have to worry about unappealing welds that can compromise the style of a piece of art, for example.
Another significant advantage of TIG welding is that it doesn’t require a homogenous filler. Contractors won’t have to worry as much about finding the right materials to act as a joiner. Finishing and cleanup also take far less time with TIG than MIG welding, as the bond will be near-perfect.
There’s no need to worry about surface flaws, such as spatter, that require extra steps for smoothing. Your work will look far cleaner upon completion, which allows you to move onto the next project faster.
The Disadvantages of TIG Welding
The most significant issue with TIG welding is that it requires a lot of experience to handle correctly. Contractors will need specialized training to work with the sweltering temperatures of materials. They will also need to perfect their craft to offer resilient welds for structural stability.
Even the two-handed process of TIG welding can be challenging for beginners. TIG welding is also known to be the more time-consuming task out of the two, affecting workflow. Since it requires the perfect amount of pressure and precision, contractors spend more time on each weld.
The Main Differences Between MIG and TIG Welding
As you can tell, MIG and TIG welding are significantly different from one another. Some of the most noticeable differences you’ll experience include:
Technique
One of the most apparent differences between these two welding methods is the technique needed for each. MIG welding requires an electrode that’s continuously threaded through a spool gun to create a quick weld. On the other hand, TIG puts a different filler material onto the weld with one hand while the other uses the torch.
Difficulty and Experience
There’s no doubt that TIG welding requires far more experience than MIG welding. Since the filler is fed continually, it’s simpler to handle than with TIG. Managing filler and a torch simultaneously will be too challenging without experience.
Metal Thickness
The materials you use with each process are sure to differ, as MIG is highly recommended for thick metals. The accuracy you have with TIG welding makes it simpler to manage thin metals without damage.
Project Size and Speed
MIG welding is preferred by contractors who have a heavy workload, like those in the automobile industry. It’s also best for making structurally-sound welds quickly.
On the other hand, TIG welding is often preferred for craftsmanship since it has a higher detail level. It’s most often chosen for ornamental purposes because the welds have a higher attractiveness than MIG welding.
Conclusion
With the significant differences between MIG and TIG welding, it should be easy to determine which is best for your project. If you need quick industry-standard welds, MIG is a better alternative than TIG welding’s ornamental precision.
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