What is Gas Tungsten Arc Welding?

Developed in the 1940s as a way to successfully weld magnesium and aluminum, gas tungsten arc welding (GTAW), also sometimes known as Tungsten Inert Gas (TIG) welding, quickly caught on and moved to replace gas and manual metal arc welding. It also helped to make aluminum an accepted material for use in structural applications.

Gas tungsten arc welding (GTAW) is an arc welding process made by using a tungsten electrode. Tungsten is an ideal choice because it will not melt away during the welding process, while still conducting electricity well. Its high melting point makes it very useful in this type of welding, which can reach temperatures over 6,000 degrees Fahrenheit.

An arc is made between the electrode and the piece being welded. An inert gas shield–often argon or helium–is used to protect the workable portion of a weld that melts and allows for joining. This is called the weld pool, and the inert gas shield works to keep the weld pool free of contamination. A welding torch allows for control of the arc length and gas flow.

Gas Tungsten Arc Welding (GTAW) Advantages

The noted high melting point of tungsten (6,191.6°F / 3,422°C) means that it is a more versatile type of welding that can accommodate various applications. Resulting welds are higher in quality than traditional methods, more precise, and because it is a relatively clean process, operators do not need to deal with resulting smoke or noxious fumes. It is an overall safer, more reliable, and efficient process for trained welders.

Using a non-consumable tungsten electrode means that the weld isn’t contaminated with filler and so is cleaner and stronger. Thanks to a low heat output, GTAW prevents warping and distortion to the material being welded, even when using thin metals. Low spatter means that this form of welding creates less of a mess, requires less cleanup, and prevents damage to the surrounding areas. 

Applications For Gas Tungsten Arc Welding (GTAW)

GTAW allows for welding on a wide range of metals, such as aluminum, stainless steel, and nickel alloys, like titanium, as well as other nonferrous metals. This means that GTAW can be used for a variety of applications. The aerospace, automotive, and construction industries are just some of the common applications for this form of welding. Medical devices, various electronic components, and technology products are often crafted using GTAW, as are critical components that are used in the oil and gas and chemical industries. GTAW also finds application in the world of maintenance and repair, and this welding process is preferred when repairing tools and dies. The level of control that is achievable with GTAW puts resulting welded products far above industry standards, making it a clear choice for many modern welding needs. Additional applications include bicycle manufacturing and repair, and a wide range of uses within such diverse industries as pharmaceutical, nuclear and even in the art world.

If there are any disadvantages at all to using GTAW, they could be the difficulty and skill level needed, a lower deposition rate and thus longer project time, and a higher cost of a final product. That said, the higher quality, longevity, durability and versatility of gas tungsten arc welding make up for any perceived negatives.

If you are in need of gas tungsten arc welding services near Cleveland, look no further than M&M Certified Welding. Our welders are Shielded Metal Arc Welding (SMAW), Gas Metal Arc Welding (GMAW), and American Welding Society (AWS) certified and gas tungsten arc welding is just one of the many types of welding services we offer. Check out our mobile welding services, truck body fabrication and custom fabrication services. Contact us today to learn more and get started on your next project!