TIG Welding Instructions
- 1). Pick a machine, but first know what sort of work is being done. For example, aluminum welding requires a direct current setup, while steel welding requires an alternating current setup. In addition to this, the amount of current needed for welding depends heavily on what is being welded. In the case of cars, heavy structure work requires 180 to 200 amps, while cosmetic work requires only 5 to 10 amps.
- 2). Make sure your welding surface is clean of all dust, detritus, and other materials. If not, the materials can get caught in and weaken the weld, causing possible failure at a high-strain moment. In addition, try to clean your entire workspace of loose material for an extra layer of precaution.
- 3). Learn the proper technique. TIG welding can be difficult to learn, but becomes rather simple after studying the process. Make sure that you can hold the electrode at a degree approximately 15 to 20 degrees perpendicular from the work area, while keeping your hand comfortable to avoid cramps. Once you've settled the tool, push the tip of the electrode in the direction you want to weld. Pushing is preferable to pulling; you have greater visibility of your work area, as well as better dissipation of resultant gases.
- 4). Hold the tool the proper distance from the work surface. Modern machines are highly precise, and as such require the tool to only be held 1/8 of an inch or less from the area you want to weld. When set up, the welding pedal is pressed to create the current.
Start welding with the tool properly positioned. Moving too far away will weaken the weld, and moving too close may cause damage or injury.
When enough of the work surface metal or the welding stock has melted, move the tool with the stock to keep the puddle a consistent size and, therefore, keep the joint a consistent size.
