Which welding should you opt for?

Despite their almost similar names, TIG and MIG welding have some differences owing to factors such as welding precision, setup times, initial cost and utilization.

TIG Welding

TIG stands for Tungsten Inert Gas - a welding that joins reactive metals with the help of a non-consumable Tungsten electrode. It utilizes Argon, an inert gas, to produce a weld without air contaminants. Tungsten creates the arc between the electrode and metal. Optionally a filler may be used if required. 

Pros of TIG Welding:

Its cleaner and good for the environment. This is because it gives off the least spark smoke and fumes.

It also results in more precise welds since TIG welding has less contamination.

There's also no need to use filler materia as TIG welding can easily let one weld melt into the other. Its good for thin materials.

Cons of TIG Welding:

Its difficult and time-consuming to set up.

It is costly and the welds take more time to form than in MIG welding especially with thicker metals.

It is more complex to work with TIG welding. It requires serious skills.

MIG Welding

Also called Metal Inert Gas (MIG) welding, it works by combining two metals with the help of a filler wire and a current to produce the electrode. There is also an Inert gas used in order to protect the weld from any air contaminants. 

Pros of MIG Welding:

MIG welding is quick in producing welds

Welds are easier and user-friendly to make. Setup time is low and it can be automated too.

Equipment used for MIG welding is low cost and accessible.

Cons of MIG Welding:

It is prone to irregular wire feedback and has a less stable arc. In short, its less reliable.

It is not good for the environment as it gives off more fumes and smoke than TIG welding.