MIG, or metal inert gas, and TIG, or tungsten inert gas, use electric arcs and shielding gases to weld metals. Both of these techniques appear similar but have different features. In the 1940s, MIG and TIG welding totally changes the joining process of aluminum and magnesium alloys. Since they are effective, they are widely used across industries. TIG is for thin metals. It’s gentler and can work without a filler. Conversely, when we talk about MIG welding, it penetrates thicker materials because of its shielding gas, power supply, and unique methodology.
Key Differences between MIG and TIG Welding
Now, let’s discuss how two standard welding procedures contrast.
Power Supply
When discussing MIG vs. TIG welding, the power supply is the first and foremost factor to consider. TIG welding can function with AC (alternating current) or DC (direct current) power. While contingent upon the metal and the electric arc’s type, TIG welding uses either of the above electricity sources. AC power is for welding aluminum, and DC is for heavy-duty electric arcs. What about MIG welding? It utilizes DC power, and electricity goes from the wire to the substrate.
Material Selection
Secondly, let’s talk about material selection. Basically, both techniques are almost similar. The fact is that both practices apply to aluminum, carbon steel, and stainless steel. However, the surprising thing is that TIG works efficiently with skinny metals. Meanwhile, MIG is for denser metals. The reason is that TIG offers better control and lessens destruction to the substrate.
Electrode
In welding, electrodes can be anode (positive) or cathode (negative). Their basic purpose is to generate electric arcs. Nevertheless, electrodes can also be utilized as filler materials. Subsequently, there are two kinds of electrodes, including consumable and non-consumable. Essentially, consumable ones offer dual purposes: electric arcs and fillers. Thanks to their low melting points, they melt rapidly. In MIG welding, they are employed for mild as well as nickel steel. Otherwise, non-consumable ones just generate electric arcs. They do not melt during welding and cannot be used as fillers. Its the most obvious example is tungsten in TIG welding.
Shielding Gases
Shielding gases safeguard the weld area from surrounding contaminations and particles. While ascertaining MIG vs. TIG welding, CO2 is standard in MIG welding. Still, if you are using aluminum as a substrate, He, Ar, and O2 are appropriate. TIG welding utilizes Ar. Remember that materials with rich nickel content can combine He and Ar as an operational shielding gas. At the same time, Ar amalgamated with N or H works commendably for stainless steel welding.
Quality, Speed, and Cost
When comparing MIG and TIG welding, quality is fundamental. Choose TIG welding if you want crisper lines. Another thing to consider is how fast it is; MIG welding is more rapid. Are you aware of the justification? The reason TIG is slow is because it requires more precision. To top it all off, MIG welding does not need any kind of external filler. Consequently, MIG reaches faster speeds. Also, there’s the issue of costs. TIG suffers higher expenditures. TIG welding requires accurate parts, labor- and setup-intensive configuration, period, power, perfection, and filler demands.
Choosing the Right Welding Method
Instead of TIG welding, MIG welding is a better option for a beginner. Use MIG for stress-free welding tasks and long-lasting welds, even if you haven’t welded much. While household chores may not need the same level of precision as TIG welding, it does provide crisper results than MIG. It is recommended to start with MIG and switch to TIG if necessary. Apart from that, MIG welding may be used on both aluminum and steel. Welds in thinner materials, pipes, and prominent metals like aluminum or stainless steel are well-suited to TIG welding.
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