The difference between tig welding and mig welding

TIG welding (Tungsten Inert Gas Welding) and MIG welding (Metal Inert Gas Welding) are two common welding techniques, which have significant differences in electrode type, shielding gas, applicable materials and welding process. Here are the main differences between these two welding methods:

1. Electrode type
TIG welding: uses non-melting tungsten as the electrode and requires manual addition of welding wire.
MIG welding: uses a fusible welding wire as an electrode, and the welding wire is fed from the welding gun through an automatic wire feeding mechanism.

2. Protective gas
TIG welding: usually uses argon or helium as the shielding gas, sometimes with a small amount of hydrogen added to increase heat input.
MIG welding: The shielding gas can be argon or helium, and sometimes a small amount of oxygen is added to improve arc stability.

3. Applicable materials
TIG welding: suitable for welding thin plates and non-ferrous metals, such as stainless steel, aluminum, copper, titanium, etc.
MIG welding: suitable for welding a variety of materials, including carbon steel, alloy steel, aluminum, copper, stainless steel, etc.

4. Welding process
TIG welding: During the welding process, the tungsten electrode does not melt and only acts as an electrode, so the welding wire needs to be added manually.
MIG welding: During the welding process, the welding wire is melted by the arc and fed into the welding area. The welding speed is fast and the efficiency is high.

5. Welding quality
TIG welding: The welding process is stable and of high quality, but the speed is slow.
MIG welding: fast welding speed, high efficiency and relatively low cost.

6. Application Scenarios
TIG welding: Mainly used for welding thin and medium-thick workpieces, especially in situations where high-quality welding is required, such as the base welding of pressure vessels.
MIG welding: Suitable for welding in various positions, especially for welding thicker workpieces and occasions requiring high efficiency.

Summarize

TIG welding and MIG welding each have their own advantages and disadvantages. The choice of welding method depends on the specific welding requirements and material properties. TIG welding is suitable for situations requiring high-quality welding, while MIG welding is suitable for situations requiring high-efficiency welding.