Argon Welding

Argon gas is an inert gas widely used in welding operations to protect the welded area from atmospheric contamination and ensure weld quality. There are several types of argon welding processes based on different applications and the needs of different metal materials. Here are some common types of argon welding:

1. TIG (Tungsten Inert Gas) welding using argon:
   Argon gas is used as a shielding gas in the TIG welding process.
   • It is widely used in welding stainless steel, aluminum, copper, titanium and other metal materials.
   • It is characterized by accuracy and high quality of welding and is used in applications that require high quality and precise finishing.
2. MIG (Metal Inert Gas) welding using argon:
   • Argon gas can be used with welded wire in the MIG welding process.
   • It is widely used in welding a variety of metal materials including steel, aluminum and copper.
   • Provides ease of control and speed in welding and is suitable for large-sized works.
3. Carbon Argon Welding (CAG):
   • A mixture of argon and carbon (usually carbon dioxide) is used in this type of welding.
   • It is used in carbon welding operations where precise temperature control is required.
   • It is widely used in welding steel and high carbon steel.

The uses and types of argon welding vary depending on the project requirements and the type of metal material being welded, and welding professionals can choose the most appropriate type to ensure optimal welding quality and performance.

TIG welding:

TIG welding is a type of electric arc welding, abbreviated as TIG or GTAW (Gas Tungsten Arc Welding). TIG welding is one of the most precise and high-quality types of welding. It features the use of an electric arc between an electrode tungsten and the metal piece, where the feed of the welded rod is manually controlled.

How does TIG welding work?

An electric current is run through a tungsten metal electrode to create the electric arc. The welded rod is then precisely fused to the metal surface using this arc. Inert gas (such as argon) is used as shielding gas to protect the welded area from atmospheric contamination.

Parts and components of the TIG welding device:

1. Current Source: Generates the electrical current needed to create the arc.
2. TIG welding gun: It contains a tungsten electrode to create the arc and allows the current to be directed to the area to be welded.
3. Protection gas: It is used to protect the welded area from atmospheric pollution.

MIG welding:

MIG welding is another type of electric arc welding, abbreviated as MIG (Metal Inert Gas) or GMAW (Gas Metal Arc Welding). This welding uses continuous welded wire and shielding gas to fuse the metals.

Components of the MIG welding device:

1. Current source: It supplies the current necessary for welding and determines the type of wire being welded.
2. Welded wire: It is wound on a reel and automatically fed to the welding area.
3. Protection gas: It is used to protect the welded area from atmospheric pollution.

The difference between TIG and MIG welding:

• TIG welding requires high skills and great precision and is used for jobs that require high quality and precision, while MIG welding is faster and easier to learn and is usually used for larger jobs.

TIG welding costs are usually higher than MIG due to its equipment.

-TIG welding is used for a variety of materials while MIG welding is preferred for steel and steel alloys.

Why do we use Tungsten metal as a welding electrode?

Tungsten metal is an ideal material for use as an electrode in TIG welding processes. This is for several reasons:

• High thermal resistance: Tungsten metal withstands very high temperatures, making it ideal for use in hot electric arcs.
• Chemical stability: Tungsten metal is non-corrosive and does not react with the welded metal materials, which maintains the purity of the weld.
• High melting point: Tungsten pieces withstand very high temperatures without melting, making them suitable for the hot arc used in TIG welding.

Why is Argon gas used in welding?

Argon is an inert gas widely used in welding processes, including TIG and MIG welding. The following properties of argon are used in welding:

• Gas protection: Argon is used to protect the welded area from oxidation and atmospheric pollution. It forms a gaseous layer around the arc that prevents the reaction between the welded metal and the oxygen and nitrogen in the air.
• Arc stability: Argon helps maintain arc stability during welding, which contributes to excellent welding quality.
• Temperature control: Argon flow can be adjusted to adjust welding temperature and melting depth.

By using argon gas in welding, the weld quality can be improved and the integrity of the welded area can be maintained.

Resources : https://www.twi-global.com/technical-knowledge/job-knowledge/tungsten-inert-gas-tig-or-gta-welding-006