When TIG welding aluminum, alternating current (or “AC”) is almost always used. Alternating current has a scrubbing effect on the surface, breaking up oxides that limit weld quality. However, it is possible to TIG weld aluminum with direct current (also called “DC”). Sometimes, DC is a better choice to TIG weld aluminum. How and when … Continue Reading
If you’re looking to get started with welding, then know that you’ll be experiencing one of the most creative and artistic metalworking hobbies around. Welding is intrinsically rewarding and provides you with the ability to make a bevy of artistic creations. However, whenever you are welding, you’ll need to be aware of some standard safety … Continue Reading
TIG welding is an excellent method for joining metal, and it can make beautiful welds. However, if you aren’t careful, you can get pinholes in the bead from TIG welding. How to stop pinholes when TIG welding? The best way to prevent pinholes when TIG welding is to avoid some of the common causes of … Continue Reading
This process is also known as fusion welding or autogenous welding. With any technology as versatile as TIG welding—“there’s a time and a place for everything” is a pretty safe rule of thumb. However, most TIG pros agree that when it comes to skipping filler rod, it’s more important to know when you can and … Continue Reading
Have you found yourself looking for a good quality welder? Then you undoubtedly found yourself wondering why TIG welders are more expensive than other welders, and what on Earth they could have that other welders do not. So, why are TIG welders so expensive? It boils down to quality. TIG welders are of higher quality … Continue Reading
My neighbor recently purchased a 60 cubic feet argon tank for his at-home TIG weld, but he kept complaining that the gas was running out sooner than it was supposed to. He had even set the argon flow rate as intended by the manufacturer. So I decided to help the guy out and did some … Continue Reading
Tungsten inert gas welding, called TIG welding for short, uses a tungsten electrode in an oxygen-free gas field to join metals together. TIG welding makes strong, smooth welds, and it works on a variety of different metals. TIG welding is also suitable for joining different kinds of metal together. Cast iron has a reputation for … Continue Reading
Ask any of the excellent welders that you know how long it took them to learn, and you’re likely to get the same response. “I’ve been doing it for (insert number of years or decades), I’ll let you know when I get good.” It’s a good reminder to stay humble and that there’s always more … Continue Reading
If you’re considering a career in welding, you’re probably wondering what welding skills will earn you the most money. If you’ve been welding for a while and want to learn TIG to increase your value on the job market, you want to know if there will be a return on your investment. Whatever your situation, … Continue Reading
It’s true that TIG welding is the most versatile method out there. It’s also true that it’s arguably the most challenging process to learn. Numerous issues can cause your welds to look ugly, but for every problem, there is a solution. Why your TIG welds look dirty & what to do about it? While there … Continue Reading