TIG welding, an arc welding process used for metal joining, involves melting the metal with electricity and creating a small weld connection when it cools down. If you’re a welder looking to use a TIG welder for aluminum and stainless steel, this guide is for you.
What is a TIG welder?
A TIG welder, also known as a tungsten inert gas welder, is a commonly used method in the welding industry. Unlike other welding techniques, it utilizes a non-consumable tungsten electrode. The weld is covered by an inert atmosphere, eliminating oxidation, and requires a filler metal.
During TIG welding, electricity is generated from a constant-current power supply, flowing through the arc and plasma. The main conductor for the electrical energy is ionized gas, known as plasma.
How does a TIG welder work?
To use a TIG welder, you need to hold the filler metal with one hand while controlling the welding torch with the other. A generator creates an electric spark to strike the welding arc, allowing the welding current to travel. The welder creates a welding pool by moving the torch back slightly, keeping it inclined at about 15 degrees from vertical. Finally, the welder manually adds the filler rod to the front end of the welding pool and starts welding.
How to Set Up a TIG Welder for Aluminum?
Setting up a TIG welding machine for aluminum requires specific steps. There are two options for the type of tungsten to use: pure tungsten or thoriated tungsten. Here’s how to set up a TIG welder for aluminum:
- Switch on the machine using the button on the rear panel.
- Push the button on the bottom row for polarity, process, output, pulser, and gas/dig.
- Select the options indicated by a green LED:
- Change the polarity to AC.
- Change the process to TIG HF Impulse.
- Choose RMT STD on the output to enable the foot pedal.
- Select PPS on the pulser and turn the amperage knob to 4.
- Choose PRE-FLOW on gas/dig and adjust the amperage knob to 0.2 seconds.
- Choose POST-FLOW on gas/dig and set the amperage knob to Auto.
- Select AC Frequency in AC waveshape.
- Push the A button and set the maximum amperage.
- Use the foot pedal to control the amperage within the set range.
Watch this video for a visual guide on setting up a TIG welder for aluminum.
How to Set Up a TIG Welder for Stainless Steel?
Setting up a TIG welding machine for stainless steel follows a different process. Here’s how to do it:
- Switch on the machine using the button on the rear panel.
- Push the button on the bottom row for polarity, process, output, and gas/dig.
- Select the options indicated by a green LED:
- Change the polarity to DC.
- Change the process to TIG HF Impulse.
- Choose RMT STD on the output to enable the foot pedal.
- Set PRE-FLOW in gas/dig and turn the amperage knob to 0.02 seconds.
- Set POST-FLOW in gas/dig and turn the amperage knob to Auto.
- Push the A button on the machine and set the maximum amperage.
- Use the foot pedal to control the amperage within the set range.
Conclusion
Setting up a TIG welder for aluminum and stainless steel is not as challenging as it may seem. With a few adjustments, you can easily switch between aluminum and stainless steel welding. So, if you’re a welder, get ready to tackle different projects with confidence!
For more information on TIG welders, check out these resources: