This article attempts to provide a comprehensive answer to the age-old question of: What is the difference between MIG welding and TIG welding? In terms of their usage in the metals market, both types of welding are heavily relied upon as they provide methods of adding strength and joining materials effectively and safely. According to recent data, up to 80% of new welders will be trained to use MIG welding, while TIG welding accounts for just 10% of the new welding workforce.
With this disparity, it may be difficult to understand the difference between these two types of welding. Let’s tackle this challenge together and discover what sets these two types of welding apart.
What Is The Difference Between Mig Welding And Tig Welding?
Welding is a process used to join two or more pieces of metal together. It is a highly technical and precise process that requires skill and precision.The two most common welding processes, MIG (Metal Inert Gas) and TIG (Tungsten Inert Gas), are both used to join metals and can be used for a variety of projects. Though both are similar in nature, there are some significant differences between MIG welding and TIG welding.
Metal Inert Gas (MIG) Welding
MIG welding is a form of arc welding that uses a consumable wire electrode and shielding gas to create the weld. It is one of the most common types of welding and is preferred for its simplicity.The basics of MIG welding involves feeding a wire electrode from a spool to the welding gun in order to establish an electrical arc. It requires an electric current to create the arc between the electrode and the metal surface. The wire electrode is melted and creates a pool of molten metal which is cooled and solidifies to form the weld.
MIG welding is relatively easy to learn and is often used in automobiles or manufacturing, but it is also used in home improvements, fabrications, and repairs. It can be done on a variety of materials including steel, aluminum, stainless steel, and magnesium.
Advantages of MIG Welding
- Cost – MIG welding is less expensive than TIG welding and is usually the more cost-effective choice for most projects
- Versatility – MIG welding can be used on almost any type of metal from steel to aluminum
- Speed – MIG welding is much faster than TIG welding and can be completed in less time, making it ideal for large projects
- Ease of Use – MIG welding is easy and straightforward to learn and use, making it a popular choice for beginners
Tungsten Inert Gas (TIG) Welding
TIG welding is a form of arc welding that uses a non-consumable tungsten electrode and shielding gas to create the weld.It is a more involved and complex process than MIG welding, but it is also better suited for more delicate projects. The basics of TIG welding involves establishing an electric arc between the tungsten electrode and the metal surfaces.
Heat is generated by the electric current and the designer metals are melted and fused together. As the metals cool and solidify, the joint forms a weld. TIG welding is ideal for precision welding and is used by craftsmen and professionals for small projects, repairs and arts. It excels at welding thin metals, and is one of the few welding processes that can fuse stainless steel and aluminum together.
Advantages of TIG Welding
- Precision – TIG welding offers more accuracy and control than other welding methods. It is perfect for more delicate projects.
- Versatile – TIG welding can be used on a variety of materials, including steel, aluminum, copper, and stainless steel.
- Cleanliness – TIG welding produces less spatter and smoke than other welding methods, resulting in cleaner welds.
- Safety – TIG welding produces a much lower risk of the operator receiving electric shocks.