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Minding the Gap: Navigating the Nuances of MIG and TIG Welding in Sheet Metal Fabrication

man welding

Welding sheet metal is a critical process in fabrication. It is both a skill and an art form to ensure sufficient weld strength for the application while avoiding burn-through, warping, or excessive heat-affected zones. Two standard processes to weld sheet metal are metal inert gas (MIG) and tungsten inert gas (TIG) welding. While both can achieve comparable results, each method has unique attributes that make them suitable for specific uses.

MIG Welding: High Production Speed and Versatility

MIG welding, also known as gas metal arc welding (GMAW), is an arc welding process that uses a continuous solid wire electrode fed through a welding gun. The contact tip is electrically charged, creating an arc between the electrode and the metal, generating enough heat to melt the wire and forming a weld pool that joins the two pieces. The collection is protected from environmental contaminants by a shielding gas.

MIG welding is faster than TIG welding, making it appropriate for high-production applications, including automated or robotic processes that increase repeatability and throughput. MIG welders offer a range of power outputs, allowing them to work with thin or thick materials without risking burn-through or poor welds. It can be used on various metals such as carbon steel, stainless steel, and aluminum.

However, MIG welding produces spatter, making it better suited for projects where weld appearance is not critical. Despite this, due to its speed, MIG welding is a versatile choice for many applications.

TIG Welding: Precision and Cleanliness

TIG welding, also known as gas tungsten arc welding (GTAW), uses a non-consumable tungsten electrode within the torch. This means it doesn’t get used up and doesn’t have to be replaced like the electrode in MIG welding. Current running through the electrode heats and melts the metals being joined. Filler material is often used for weld build-up and reinforcement of the weld when joining thicker materials. Like MIG welding, a gas shield protects the puddle from contaminants.

TIG welding is more complex and challenging to perform than MIG welding and, when done well, provides a more precise and cosmetically appealing weld. The heat and filler material are independently controlled, and the welder has greater control over the speed and depth of the weld and can fine-tune the weld as needed. TIG welding is commonly used for aluminum and steel.

While TIG welding is slower than MIG welding, it is the preferred choice for stainless steel applications that require a clean appearance in a cosmetic setting. Heat input and speed must be controlled, as stainless steel is susceptible to warpage from uneven heating. TIG welding speeds are generally slower than MIG welding because it is a more hands-on process. With TIG welding, the welder must manually feed the filler rod into the weld puddle, while the filler rod is automatically fed with MIG welding. TIG welding requires more skill and attention to detail, which can slow down the process.

Choosing The Right Method

Choosing the most suitable welding method for your sheet metal fabrication project is crucial to ensure a robust and durable product. Working closely with your metal fabricator is the best way to ensure the correct welding type is used. They will evaluate your project and its materials and the number of parts needed to determine which method is best.

Partnering With Tusco Manufacturing

At Tusco, we combine the science of sophisticated robotic welding with the unmatched expertise of our skilled welders, who have honed the art of proficient welding. This fusion of technology and experience allows us to provide the best solution for your challenging sheet metal fabrication projects. We are more than welders – as a one-stop shop, we take your project from design to shipment, utilizing advanced technology to provide you with lower costs and fewer vendors to manage.

Our engineers and highly skilled welders work together to determine your project’s most suitable welding processes. For many ferrous metal applications requiring MIG welding, we employ robotic welders that enable us to work with efficiency and precision. Meanwhile, our skilled and experienced welders are reserved for tasks showcasing their craftsmanship and expertise, such as TIG welding.

Whether your project involves joining aluminum, stainless steel, or mild steel, we approach each welding task with determination, striving to provide you with the most cost-effective solution that meets your quality expectations and specifications. Our commitment goes beyond welding, as we relish challenges and utilize economical ingenuity to deliver high-quality products on time, with a lower total cost of ownership.

By offering a comprehensive, one-stop-shop service, we can take your project from design through shipping, resulting in lower total costs and fewer vendors for you to manage. Trust in Tusco’s expertise and commitment to ensure the success of your sheet metal fabrication projects.

Contact us to get started on your next project.

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