TIG (Tungsten Inert Gas) welding is one of the most commonly utilized welding procedures by professional aviation welders. While TIG welding produces a clean, robust weld joint, making it excellent for assembling and repairing aircraft components, doing so is not straightforward since there are many aspects to consider, including heat management, technique, and welder expertise.
If you're having trouble with correct TIG welding procedures, you've come to the right spot. In this post, we will go over the fundamentals of TIG welding and cover some tips on how to get better TIG welding outcomes.
Ensure That Everything Is Spotless
A clean metal surface is necessary for a robust welding arc. You should use a sensitive brush for both aluminum and stainless steel, as each type of metal is different. A few extra minutes can significantly improve the outcome.
TIG welding is not resistant to impurities. Before using a specialized wire brush to scrub your base metal, be sure to clean it with a reliable degreaser. Never apply the same brush to various metal types. Use a degreaser to clean the filler rod as well.
Practice First
Although it may seem absurd, many skilled welders do this procedure before each pass. Run your hands down the line. They will traverse while making the weld in the most comfortable posture you can, with support blocks in place if necessary.
A minor modification to your position may allow you to make a longer pass or move your hands with less strain. Any tension in your position will be detrimental to the weld. Furthermore, as you practice, you will develop crucial muscle memory that will keep everything on course when you make the "real" pass.
Also Read: What Are The Benefits Of TIG Welding?
Clean A Contaminated Electrode Right Away
Every welder will contaminate their electrode after a certain time. However, a contaminated electrode must be replaced quickly. Keep a supply of freshly sharpened electrodes right next to your welding bench so you don't have to go to your grinder to change them.
If you follow these guidelines, we believe you will see an improvement in your TIG welds!
Find Techniques To Support Up Your Hands
It's essential to have sturdy support for your hands or arms if you want to move the torch with dexterity. When your wrists or the base of your hands are supported in some way, you can weld more effectively. Frequently, you can place your wrists on the welding workpiece.
We maintain a variety of wood and metal blocks next to our welding table since doing so often allows us to acquire greater support for our torch hand. On occasion, we use something as support while resting our forearms or even our elbows.
To follow the joint precisely with their torch hand, many welders build up special support bars parallel to the joint that has to be welded.
Use The Correct Type Of Tungsten
Working with various metals necessitates the use of the appropriate tungsten. Green tungsten should be used as much as possible on aluminum surfaces. Red tungsten is recommended for steel metals. As you practice more, you will discover that certain sorts of tungsten work well with different types of metal.
Use Minimum Power
One of the most important TIG welding tips to know is that using too much power might cause the weld to burn through. So, use as little power as possible (or at least at a power level that you can tolerate) to develop a puddle technique that produces a solid weld.
Wear Safety Equipment
Tungsten electrodes release a little radiation. As a result, you must wear a respirator to protect your mouth and face. Similarly, we recommend that you practice TIG welding in a well-ventilated place to avoid dust from affecting the quality of your work.
About Acorn Welding
Acorn Welding is one of the leading names in the aviation welding industry and is a Transport Canada Civil Aviation approved Maintenance Organization. In addition, we are one of the few EASA-approved welding facilities. We provide expert and excellent welding services for all kinds of aircraft.
To get the most out of your aircraft, contact us, and we’ll make sure your aircraft has what it needs for excellent performance.
