Welding is an important process in rigging work and is used for joining metal pieces. MIG and TIG welding are two of the most popular ways of welding. Both of these processes are somewhat different from each other and have their distinct advantages and applications. It’s important for professionals to understand the difference between MIG vs TIG welding.
Quick MIG Welding
MIG stands actually for Metal Inert Gas, which is a commonly used welding technique that is used across various industries. MIG welding is performed by a simple wire, which acts as an electrode and is simultaneously fed from spools through a welding gun. The wire that is in contact with the metal creates an electric arc melting both it and the base metal building a solid welding joint between them.
High speed is the major benefit associated with MIG welding. Due to continuous wire feeding, it has the ability to perform a welding job much faster than the other methods. Therefore, such welding methods generally suit any project that demands longer, straight welds or while welding thick materials. The welding job is also found more comfortable for tightening jobs because it produces relatively less smoke and gases by the welder himself.
TIG Welding: Precision and Control
TIG welding, known by another name, Gas Tungsten Arc Welding (GTAW), is a welding technique that is known for its precise quality of welds. TIG welding employs a non-consumable tungsten-based electrode in the welding process, providing an independent input of a filler that is fed into the weld zone by hand. This fashions a taut weld and sleek and neat welds with good aesthetic appeal.
TIG welding is better applied in working with thin materials, and branding is necessary. Typically, this is one of the methods most utilized in welding non-ferrous metals, aluminum, and stainless steel. TIG has a slower welding process in contrast to MIG but has better control and may lay down welds that have low distortion and splatter.
MIG vs TIG Welding: The 5 Main Differences
There are many factors that will come into play when comparing MIG vs TIG welding.
- Speed: MIG welding is generally faster compared to TIG welding, making it better for applications on large projects or production work.
- Precision: TIG welding has better precision and control, which allows for the welding of more intricate things and nice results on thin materials.
- Levels of Skill: MIG welding is easier to learn and master; TIG welding requires more skill and practice to get good results.
- Versatility: MIG welding can weld several metals and thicknesses—TIG welding best with thin materials and does great with non-ferrous metals.
- Clean-up: TIG welding, naturally, produces cleaner welds with no spatter or less. Therefore, minimal cleanup operations are presented after the weld.
When to apply the use of MIG and TIG Welding
When the question arises about which one to choose between MIG vs TIG welding, everything depends on the nature of the project at hand.
The following will guide you on when to apply MIG or TIG welding:
Use MIG welding when:
- Can work continuously with long, huge projects
- Works with thicknesses of over 1/16 inch
- Speed is a priority
- Works with ferrous metals
- Works in outdoor or windy conditions
Use TIG welding when:
- Precision and aesthetics are the priorities
- Working with thicknesses of less than 1/16 inch
- Works with non-ferrous metals like aluminum or stainless steel
- Creating complex or intricate welds
- Quality is the key, not speed
Knowing the differences between MIG vs TIG welding can enable the selection of the right welding technique for rigging work. MIG offers speed and adaptability, which is perfect for large-scale work and bigger thicknesses. TIG affords precision and control for works with thin materials and non-ferrous metals that need complicated details.
By considering factors such as the kind of metal being joined, material thickness, size of a project at hand, and the quality of a weld needed, you can make an informed decision on whether to use MIG or TIG welding. Both methods have their place in the rigging industry, and mastering both techniques will make you a more versatile and valuable welder.
Keep in mind that each of these methods requires practice and experience if mastery is the goal. Whether MIG or TIG welding, the practices of safety and proper welding procedures should always be the key to your rigging projects to assure quality.
Contact us to learn more about our welding services at Specialty Rigging Co.
Follow us on Facebook to stay up to date with the latest at Specialty Rigging Co.
Recent Comments