TIG or MIG

Date 03-11-2003 05:03

A MIG (metal inert gas, an obsolescent term now refered to as gmaw- gas shielded metal arc welding) forms the arc between a metal wire which is being continuously fed by the machine and the work. The wire also provides the filler material. Shielding gas (usually co2 or a mix of argon and co2) fed around the wire protects the hot metal from oxidation by the air.

A TIG (tungsten inert gas, also obsolescent now referred to as gtaw- gas shielded tungsten arc welding) forms the arc from a tungsten electrode and the work. Shielding gas fed around the tungsten protects the hot metal. Filler if used is fed with the other hand (like oxy acetylene welding).

I believe I have expanded the acronyms correctly but invite corrections.

Bill

By M.L.

Date 03-11-2003 11:16

The explenation as to an inert gas is a gas that cannot be mixed with anything else to form another gas as well this is also important to know.

By Esjay Date 03-11-2003 11:43

So, which is better for welding SS in a situation where you need there to be zero rust?

By jwright650 (*****)

Date 03-11-2003 12:37

You are going to have to expand on your application alittle more before someone will be able to help you with this question. Type or grades of SS Materials, Thicknesses, Joint configuration, Applicable codes or specs, etc.....

Fill in some of the blanks for a better understanding of what it is you are welding and trying to achieve,
Thanks,
John Wright

By Niekie3 (***)

Date 03-11-2003 18:19

If you are interested in the difference with respect to the power source, then it is as follows:

A TIG power source is a "constant current" (CC) power source while a MIG power source is a "Constant voltage" (CV) power source. Many of the new inverter power sources allow you to select the power source characteristics, so that they can be used for both processes. Some of the older power sources also claimed to give you this functionality, but I did not find one that did a particularly good job in the CV mode.

MIG welding can only be done on a CC power source if you use a voltage sensing wire feeder. My experience with these has also not been so good. At any rate, you can not weld MIG in dip transfer with this set-up. You need a CV power source.

Regards
Niekie Jooste