TIG welders are one of the versatile options for finer and high quality weld finish.
Compared to other welding techniques, it offers great operation control and are capable of welding more type of metals as well.
Choosing the right TIG welder is a challenging task. So, we did some research and analyzed which factors to consider. Some of them are mentioned below…
- Input Power:There are mainly two types of electric currents that include AC and DC. While some TIG welders can work with both AC and DC, some are only supported by DC only. And this ability limits the supported metals that you can weld using a TIG welder. If you don’t have any idea of power source, then choose a model with both inputs.
- Amperage:One of the most important things to check while buying an electric welder is its amp rating or power consumption. As you would expect, it simply tells you the amount of current used by a welder. And you can find 200 amp and 160 amp TIG welder options out there as they are quite common.
Other factors are mentioned clearly in theBuying Guide.Go through the information thoroughly to choose the best tig welder for your requirements. Based on the same information, we have gathered a list of Best TIG Welders.
Best TIG Welder: Reviews
| Tig Welders | Amp | Supported Current | Warranty | Buy Now |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| PRIMEWELD Tig Welder | 225 amp | DC and AC | 3 years | Check On Amazon |
| AHP Alpha Tig Welder | 200 amp | DC and AC | 3 years | Check On Amazon |
| Lotos Aluminum Tig Welder | 200 amp | DC and AC | 1 year | Check On Amazon |
| MTS Combo Welder | 205 amp | DC only | 1 year | Check On Amazon |
| EVERLAST PowerARC Welder | 160 amp | DC only | 5 years | Check On Amazon |
| Weldpro Digital TIG Welder | 200 amp | DC and AC | 2 years | Check On Amazon |
| Hobart AC TIG Welder | 165 amp | DC and AC | 5 years | Check On Amazon |
Top Tig Welders 2020
1. PRIMEWELD Tig/Stick Welder
Primeweld is one of the most rated brands of electric welders available out there. And it even makes various TIG welders, including the one present in this article.
Primeweld’s TIG225X TIG welder is present in the 1st position in this article as it is one of the most powerful options present in this article. This is due to the fact that it offers a high peak power consumption or an amp rating of 225 amps. And it can provide this while supporting both DC and AC currents.
因此,您可以使用此weldi TIG焊机ng ¼ inch aluminum and ⅜ inch mild steel without any issues. Another great thing about this is that it works with both 110 volts as well as 220-volt electricity without any problems. You get all of this in this Primeweld TIG welder, along with a 3-year warranty.
Best Features:
- 225 amp TIG welder
- Works with both DC and AC electricity
- Supports 110 volt and 220-volt current
- Comes with a 3-year warranty
- Welds ¼ inch aluminum and ⅜ inch mild steel
- Advanced inverter technology with PWM
- HF start hand torch control
- Precise foot pedal welding heat control
Components:
- CK17 flex head torch
- CK flex tubing
- CK dinse connector
- TIG welder
- User manual
- Warranty card
2. AHP AlphaTIG 200X 200 Amp IGBT AC DC Tig/Stick Welder
AHP is another great option if you are looking for reputable brands of electric welders. We have mentioned a decently powerful TIG welder from AHP in this article.
This AHP AlphaTIG 200X TIG welder is present in the 2nd position in this article as it offers a decent welding performance. This 200 amp TIG welder provides the support for both AC as well as DC electricity. And as you would expect, this allows you to weld ¼ inch aluminum as well as ⅜ inch mild steel without any issues.
就像前面的TIG焊机,这也一个comes with advanced inverter technology with PWM using IGBT technology. You can even precisely weld thinner gauge metals using this TIG welder. It comes with HF start along with a foot pedal for precise control of the welding heat. And this TIG welder offers a 3-year warranty to its users.
Best Features:
- 200 amp TIG welder
- Works with both DC and AC electricity
- Supports 110 volt and 220-volt current
- Comes with a 3-year warranty
- Welds ¼ inch aluminum and ⅜ inch mild steel
- Advanced inverter technology with PWM
- HF start
- Precise foot pedal welding heat control
Components:
- Foot pedal
- TIG welder
- User manual
- Warranty card
3. Lotos TIG200ACDC 200A AC/DC Aluminum Tig Welder
Unlike the previous two options, Lotos is a comparatively affordable brand of electric welders. And this is also true with this Lotos TIG welder.
The Lotos TIG200ACDC TIG welder is present in the 3rd position in this article as it offers great performance at a lower price. Just like the previous option, this is also a 200 amp welder that works with both DC as well as AC electricity. And you can even use it with 110 volts or 220-volt electricity as per your needs and requirements.
Unfortunately, you only get a 1-year warranty with it due to its slightly lower price tag. Thankfully, you get other useful features like a foot pedal and argon regulator in this TIG welder for high precision. You even get an inbuilt square wave inverter that is quite useful for welding aluminum.
Best Features:
- 200 amp TIG welder
- Works with both DC and AC electricity
- Supports 110 volt and 220-volt current
- Comes with a 1-year warranty
- Inbuilt foot pedal for heat control
- Argon regulator for precision
- Square wave inverter for aluminum welding
Components:
- Stick clamp
- Foot pedal
- Argon regulator
- TIG welder
- User manual
- Warranty card
4. MTS-205 205 Amp Arc Combo Welder
Amico is a fairly lesser-known brand of TIG welders when compared with other options. And unlike other options in this article, this one is a DC only TIG welder.
As mentioned earlier, this is a DC only TIG welder that is made for aluminum. Since it is a 205 amp TIG welder, it even works with ½ inch aluminum alloys without any issues. You can use this welder with either 110 volts or 230-volt electricity as per your requirements. Although, since it is a smaller brand, you only get a 1-year warranty with it.
It comes with various highly useful features like automatic compensation for voltage fluctuation. This protects the TIG welder in case of improper electricity supply. You also get advanced IGBT technology in this welder, just like various other options present in this article.
Best Features:
- 205 amp TIG welder
- Works only with DC electricity
- Supports 110 volt and 230-volt current
- Comes with a 1-year warranty
- Welds ½ inch aluminum
- Advanced IGBT technology
- Automatic compensation for voltage fluctuation
- 高质量的送丝
Components:
- Electrode holder
- Work clamp
- Air hose
- Aluminum and steel wire
- TIG welder
- User manual
- Warranty card
5. EVERLAST PowerARC 160STH Welder
Everlast is another brand of electric welders that is not that popular. It is also a DC only TIG welder, just like the previous option from Amico.
But the best part about this TIG welder is that it is the cheapest option present in this article. And even then it can offer a 5-year warranty with it. This makes it a highly reliable and durable option. You get a rating of 160 amps with this Everlast TIG welder with a duty cycle of 35% that is quite decent for its given price tag.
You can also find other useful features in this TIG welder that works with both 110 volts as well as 220-volt electricity. It includes the support for IGBT inverter technology that is quite efficient. And it includes things like HF TIG DC and STICK with an inbuilt valve.
Best Features:
- 160 amp TIG welder
- Works only with DC electricity
- Supports 110 volt and 220-volt current
- Comes with a 5-year warranty
- A duty cycle of 35% at 160 amps
- HF TIG DC and STICK with inbuilt valve
- IGBT inverter technology
Components:
- Electrode holder
- Work clamp
- TIG torch with remote trigger
- Argon regulator
- TIG welder
- User manual
- Warranty card
6. Weldpro Digital TIG 200GD ACDC Welder
Weldpro is another excellent option if you are looking for reputable electric welder brands. And we have mentioned a decent performing TIG welder from Weldpro here.
Just like various other TIG welders in this article, this one also comes with a 200 amp rating. And it can work with both 110 volts as well as 220 volt current as per your requirements. As you would expect, it works with AC as well as DC electricity that allows you to use it with aluminum as well as steel without any issues.
It is a digitally designed TIG welder that comes with various digital features that are useful for welding. You get fully adjustable pulse, AC balance, start and end amps, upslope, downslope, and various other useful features in this TIG welder.
Best Features:
- 200 amp TIG welder
- Works with both DC and AC electricity
- Supports 110 volt and 220-volt current
- Comes with a 2-year warranty
- Welds both aluminum as well as steel
- Offers various digital features
- Small and compact
Components:
- Foot pedal
- Clamps
- Argon regulator
- TIG welder
- User manual
- Warranty card
7. Hobart 500551 EZ-TIG 165i AC/DC TIG Welder
我最后的选择n this article, we have Hobart, which is a highly premium brand of welders. And as you would, the Hobart TIG welder mentioned here is quite expensive and offers various features.
Since this is a more premium TIG welder, it comes with a 5-year warranty that makes it highly reliable. As per its name, it is a 165 amp TIG welder that works with both AC and DC electricity. Although it only works with 230-volt current and not with 110 volts, that might be an issue for some users.
A great thing about this TIG welder is that it offers very simple and easy to use controls. Even if you are new to welding, you can use it without any issues. It even comes with a fan that runs only when needed due to which the unit stays cool without pulling in a lot of dust. You can weld 22 gauge 3/16 inch aluminum using this TIG welder.
Best Features:
- 165 amp TIG welder
- Works with both DC and AC electricity
- Supports only 230-volt current
- Comes with a 5-year warranty
- Welds 22 gauge 3/16 inch aluminum
- Inbuilt cooling fan
- Easy to use controls
- HF start
- Infinite amperage control for precision
Components:
- TIG welder
- User manual
- Warranty card
What is a TIG Welder and What is it Used for?
There are several welding processes of joining metals. Difference between these methods is heat, type of pressure and equipment used. Among these methods, TIG welding is the most popular one. As it produces high quality welds, only professional welders with high skill level use this process.
钨极惰性气体保护电弧焊也称为气体保护钨极welding. It is mostly used in spacecraft and airplane construction. Auto manufacturer companies use this process for its anti-corrosion capabilities. It is also widely used in auto body repair shops. Some artists that deal with metal artworks also use TIG welding process for sculpture welding for their high quality finish.
How Does a TIG Welder Work?
Tungsten Inert Gas (TIG) represents the method of using electrode for welding. Sometimes, it is also referred as Gas Tungsten Arc Welding (GTAW). It uses a non-consumable tungsten electrode as a weld for joining two metals.
With constant supply of current, an electric arc between the electrode and work piece metal. Using the heat, the welder will connect the two metals. Using an inert shielding gas or cover gas, the welded area will be protected from any surrounding elements or external contamination. Gases that are generally used for this are helium, argon or combination of them. The finished product will be slag-free with corrosion resistant properties.
Unlike other methods, TIG welders can be operated without any other filler materials. However, certain welding works may require wire or filler just as reinforcement.
What Are The Uses of TIG Welder?
Being a versatile method, TIG welding can be used for rendering several metals. Some of them are mentioned below…
- Mild steel, carbon steel and stainless steel
- Copper and alloys
- Titanium and alloys
- Nickel and alloys
- Magnesium and alloys
- Aluminum and alloys
How to Choose The Best TIG Welder?
There are several models of TIG welders available in the market. Every model is different from other. To choose the best perfect TIG welder, you have to consider certain aspects. Below, we have provided a detail buying guide which helps you choose the best option that suits your requirements. Make sure to read it thoroughly so that you can make an informed choice.
1. Input Type
As TIG welders are electrical machines, each machine has a designated input standard. First, you should understand what type of input you will be able to provide and then take a look at the input level required for the machine.
There are 2 different electrical inlet types available on a TIG welder that are AC and DC. There are a few TIG welders that have both of the inlet options available, so you won’t have to worry about the current type. So, if you are unsure about the input source available at your end, you should get the TIG welder that supports both.
例如,交流焊接适用于软金属s that have self-oxidizing properties like aluminum and magnesium. DC welds are suitable for hard metals like stainless steel, copper, and steel.
In AC input type models, existing cycle will alternate between negative and positive halves. In aluminum welding, oxides will be cleaned during the AC cycle. And in the negative phase, base metal penetration will happen. To say in simple terms, positive phase is for cleaning and negative phase is for welds. So, while analyzing the input power, you have to consider material type you are welding.
2. Amp Rating
While purchasing a TIG welder, it is important to check the amperage range. You have to choose a model that provide widest range of amperage. If you choose a tig welder with less amperage range, then it can limit your welding works as well. A wielding machine that has 5 to 230 amp range will provide enough flexibility to weld thin materials like over ¼ inch aluminum and 24 gauge stainless steel.
Aluminum usually requires higher amperage than for stainless steel. If you go for a welder that is not capable of reaching 200 amps range, then the possibility of working on some welding tasks is not possible. So, never purchase them or use those welding machines.
Apart from broad amperage range, you should also consider arc stability as well. This factor has to under 10 amps, so it will be easier to start and comes with better heat control. Tig welding is used mostly for welding thin materials, which states that you will not have hot start or high frequency when you start welding.
3. Thickness of Metal
If you are wielding metal that are delicate and thin, then you should consider choosing a model that provides very good performance at low amperage. Actually, TIG is best suited for welding thinner metals. However, if you mostly work with metals that are ½” or more thick, then we recommend to go for stick welding or MIG.
TIG welding is mostly used for metals like alloy steel, nonferrous metals, stainless steel, magnesium, and copper. It can weld most of the metals, including titanium. Usually, welding steel with TIG requires one amp per 0.001 inch thickness. Based on the same, we have provided common welding types with metal thickness and amps required to weld.
| Weld Type | Metal Thickness | Amps Needed |
|---|---|---|
| Lawnmowers/Bicycles | 1/16 | 62.5 |
| Engines | 1/16 to 1/8 | Up to 125 |
| Structural steel | 3/8 and more | 187 |
| Auto body repair | Up to 3/16 | 190 |
| General repair | 3/16 to ¼ | Up to 250 |
| Trailers and fencing | ¼ to 5/16 | 250 to 312 |
| Farm and ranch | 5/16 to 3/8 | Up to 375 |
Note: Entry-level TIG welders usually max out at 200 to 225 amps. If you want to deal with heavy materials, fix farm equipment or build trailers or fences, then they may not work. TIG welding is also not suitable for dirty and rusty metals. However, if you are welding greasy engine parts or building a fence, then arc welders are best suited for the job.
4. Power Input
Talking about the input current intensity, you will find a voltage rating on each machine that represents its current requirement. As the voltage rating on the machine increases, its capacity also increases. In simpler words, you can weld various different metals with a high voltage machine. But, you should also consider the voltage available at the source of your workshop. The source voltage must be greater than or equal to the voltage rating of the TIG welder to power the welder properly. Hence, you need to consider the voltage rating along with the current type before buying a TIG welder.
To say in simple terms, light TIG welders come with 110 to 150 volts which make them suitable for welding light materials only. So, you should not use for welding thick materials. However, some welders work at higher voltage levels up to 250v which makes them suitable for thick metals.
Welders that usually run at lower voltages are suitable for DIY projects and residential purpose. They can be easily powered using the electrical outlets present in home. If you don’t know how much power is required for your project, then some welders have the ability to operate at both high and low voltages.
4. Ignition Type
TIG welders require an ignition before you can start the welding process. There are different types of ignition methods that are required for different TIG welders. The most common ignition types are the high-frequency start and lift start.
- In the case of the lift start, you need to make contact between the electrode and metal first to start the welding flame. It can cause improper welding in the beginning if you lift start via on the main work piece. Or, you will need a spare metal part always by your side to lift start the welding.
- On the other hand, a high-frequency ignition type allows a much cleaner and faster ignition. In the case of high-frequency start, you do not have to provide any metal contact whatsoever. As the name suggests, a high-frequency current is passed through the electrode at the beginning that creates the spark. Because of this, the welding flame is created, and the welder can be directly used on the work piece to get much better welding results.
5. Adjustment Settings
Similar to other electrical welders, TIG welders also provide you with the option to control various aspects of the welding. These adjustment settings must include precise control over many important functions such as current frequency, current ampere, pulse time, etc. By managing these settings according to your requirement, you can make sure that you don’t run into any trouble while welding different materials.
These settings can be present in an analog fashion with the help of certain knobs having permanent markings over the knobs. Or, you can also get a TIG welder that has a digital display that will show these properties on a digital screen for better understanding.
In some special TIG welder, you will also find the automation function that can manage these options automatically according to your application. Such a feature can reduce your workload while increasing your speed of operation.
6. Duty Cycle
It represents the time duration the machine can work continuously. It is usually measures in percentage ratio of active time. While using a welding machine for long duration, you can experience some side effects like overcurrent, overheating and improper output. These issues can decrease the performance and even damage the welder if you keep on using it in the same way.
为了解决这个问题,每个TIG焊机specific duty cycle which states how much the welder can be run continuously. The standard-duty cycle for an electric welder is around 10 minutes. But, you can get a higher duty cycle in some of the best TIG welders in the market. A higher duty cycle will allow you to work for a longer time without needing a break. This will allow you to get the job done much quicker.
The duty cycle is represented in percentage. For example, a TIG welder with a 30% duty cycle TIG welder can be used for 3 minutes straight. But, it will require a 7 minute cooldown period afterward. On the other hand, a 60% duty cycle TIG welder can be used for around 6 minutes at once, while the cooldown period will be about 4 minutes long.
If you are using the welder for commercial purposes or dense metal operations, then you should choose DC machines. This will reduce the time duration you have to wait until for the welder to cool down. For light-duty tasks like DIY projects, you can choose TIG welders with low duty cycle as they can work without any issues.
如果你的地方有定期电涌,那么can decrease the duty cycle. Because the surge power input can increase the overworking on motor. Cheaper tig welders come with 20% of duty cycle making them suitable for light tasks and soft metals. High quality TIG welders have 60% duty cycle. However, they are expensive.
7. Weight
This is another crucial factor when it comes to TIG welders. A TIG welding machine cannot be kept stationary at all times as the welding cable cannot reach everywhere. Especially when you are welding a large, immovable job. In such a case, the weight and form factor of the machine plays an important role.
If your TIG welder is comparatively lightweight and compact in size, you can easily move the welder around for many complicated jobs. But, a compact and lightweight TIG welder will also have comparatively less power output. Therefore, make sure you consider the application of the TIG welder before making your selection and choose the one that fits your job the best.
8. Digital Control
Most of the welders come with digital controls which makes them easy to use and safe to operate. The screen will display information like voltage, power and others. Using this information, a professional or beginner will operate the welding task safely. This will make the welding task more perfect and accurate.
Safety features of the welder are also important and probably come quite handy many times. One of safety features is thermal overload protection. If the welder is working continuously for a while, then it becomes overheated which can damage it. Thermal overload protection will switch off the welder once it gets overheated. This automatic safety feature will make handling the welder much easier. Some of the tig welders also come with automatic high-temperature balance as well.
9. High Quality Arc
TIG welders that come with cheap quality have arc stability problems. If arc of the welder is unstable, then it can lead to several issues with welding finish. This can lead to a very big problem as most of the welders require to provide high quality and neat finish. So, make sure to choose a tig welder with high quality arc.
10. Pulsed Welding
Pulsed welding is usually helpful for welding thin metal pieces that may break up if normal welders are used. They reduce the heat which touches the metal and keeps it from breaking up. But TIG welders have higher pulse rating that produces stronger weld and more control.
If you are using tig for pulsed welding, then it is important to check out the pulse rate of the welder. Older machines usually have 4,000 to 4,500 pulses per second. New modern versions have up to 5,000 pulses per second.
Higher pulsing rate means stronger weld so you will have more control over the weld puddle. Higher pulsing focus means constricted arc and limited heat.
11. Foot Pedal
For proper tig welding, a reliable foot pedal is one of the important factors. Projects that need TIG welding are sometimes performed in some awkward position which needs both hands to work on it – like one for the torch and other for filler rod. Usually, the pedals enable the welders to manage the heat so that weld puddle doesn’t get too bulky.
Ideal foot pedals usually have natural angle to ground which cases discomfort or pain in your foot. And you should also check for responsiveness and foot adjustment.
12. Portability
If you have to transport the TIG welder from one place to another, then portability is one of the important factors to check out. Usually, small TIG welders weigh 40 to 50 pounds which makes them easy to move around. Larger TIG welders usually weight around 100 pounds or more. so, the only way to move them is to use a moving cart with wheels. As smaller Tig welders weigh less, they are versatile and powerful enough to handle small welding tasks that usually don’t have longer duty cycle.
13. High Frequency Settings
Tig welder which has higher frequency settings will be easy to control the arc than the one with low settings. This factor is very important to analyze for TIG welding.
14. Plasma Cutter and Stick Welding
If you are looking for versatility and extra features, then you should choose a TIG welder that has both plasma cutting and stick welding capabilities. These features will let you save time on projects like metal cutting. And you can also expand the range of projects to work on as TIG with stick ability will let you work on anything.
15. Air-Cooler Torch Vs Water Cooler Torch
Water cooled or air coolers are some of the special features available in some tig welders. They represent how the welder will cool down when it reaches high temperature. Air cooled models usually use surrounding air and run hot, making it uncomfortable to work in tight spaces.
Using a water-cooled TIG welder, it is very easy to handle extreme temperatures. They come with a tiny head that can easily get into small spaces. People who purchase air cooled welders wish they had invested in water-cooled models.
You can manage with air-cooled torch but sometimes you wish to have invested in a water cooled one. At a higher power output, the torch will get warmer and most welders may not be ok with that. Though a water-cooled torch has small head, it can complete finer tasks at even tighter spots. Most of the welders use water-cooled torches to prevent extreme heat when the air is cooled down.
16. Budget
The price range of tig welders can range from few hundreds to tens of thousands. It usually depends on packages, equipment, features and brands. The ideal cost range is somewhere in the middle. For professional works, $1000 range is suitable but for hobbyist welder, it is better to choose tig welders under $500. Just for information, expensive models can be purchased, if you work mostly with titanium metals.
17. Warranty
Last but not least, warranty is one of the important factors to consider while purchasing a tig welder. Most of the tig welders come with 2 to 5 years warranty. Longer the warranty duration, reliable the product is.
Benefits of Using a Tig Welder
There are several advantage of using a tig welder. We have mentioned some of them below for your reference.
- Welders can use their thumb or foot for total control on heat, amperage and accuracy.
- They work best on thin materials as they use low amperage.
- Heat control and amperage let you weld quickly from thin materials to larger ones which makes them a versatile option.
- It can be used on several kinds of materials that include aluminum, stainless steel, copper and other dissimilar metals. If used properly, then they can provide high quality and top quality results than other types.
- 它提供了清洁焊接finish with minimum spatters, fumes and sparks.
- TIG welder is capable of performing in any position to provide beautiful and accurate weld.
- It can also be used without metals and filler wire. They generally use non-consumable electrode.
- They are used in projects that require minimal distortion and more detailing like for curves, designs and artistry.
- As no fluxes are required, welder can use low-profile weld bead which is clean.
- Tig welder is the perfect solution for welding critical joints where precision is key. They also provide strong and clean beads.
Drawbacks of Using a Tig Welder
One of the main disadvantage of using a Tg welder is that only professionals with high skill levels can handle it. Apart from that, there are other disadvantages as well. We have mentioned them below for your reference.
- The process of using tig welder is complex and a challenge to master the skill set.
- Welders using this process should work with both hands and foot which can be quite undesirable. And moreover, it also requires very good hand-eye coordination and high focus level.
- GTAW can be easily performed on several metal types. But some metals cannot be used for this process that include metal thickness over 5mm.
- For high quality results, it can be performed on only clean materials. This can be a trouble for some people. It also takes up more energy and time.
- Though tig welding is known to produce best welds, they have low deposition rate. This means they cannot weld quickly.
- They have low tolerance for contamination of metal based and filler.
- As the process has to be done only by a qualified technician which usually results in higher labor costs. In case of improper welding, unbalanced heating, the cost can be increased.
Frequently Asked Questions
Because of sensitivity, aluminum needs AC (alternating current). So, if you are going to use tig welder on aluminum material, then make sure it supports AC.
The usage of TIG welder differs based on voltage, material type and amperage. Some welders have the capability to detect the voltage phase and adjust the welding process accordingly. The amperage is usually set based on DC you require to achieve. Welder will work perfectly at low amperage, if you are going to work on light metal continuously.
Some packages usually have user’s instructional manual which will elaborate how you have to connect or use the machine. While purchasing a tig welder, it is very important to consider the expertise level as some of these machines are very complicate to use.
Most of the TIG welders come with both TIG and stick options. Some may not provide complete package. But they are compatible enough. For that, you can just purchase the stick option for enhanced experience.
Duty cycle represents the amount of time welder can be operated continuously within 10 minute range. The rate is usually mentioned in percentage form.
There is no universal answer to this questions. Every welder has working amperage range. If you want a perfect answer, then you should consider below summary.
For lighter repair works on materials like stainless steel, aluminum and steel, 130 amp MIG or TIG unit with 130 amps and 20% to 30% duty cycle is a suitable option.
For heavy-duty welding tasks, repairs and manufacturing work, TIG unit with at least 200 amps and 40% duty cycle is suitable enough. Make sure that you have adequate power for correct penetration.
Consider the factors of application properly, analyze the welding process and choose the right option for a profitable decision.
MIG welding machine is capable of welding thicker metals quickly than TIG welding machine. If you have to weld thin materials, then TIG is the suitable option. MIG welding process is suitable for almost all metal types. TIG welding is also suitable for metals that work with thinner gauge materials.
Other differences are provided clearly below…
Technique –This is one of the main differences between these two welding types. In the MIG welding process, wire electrode will be fed continuously through spool gun for creating the weld. When it comes to TIG welding, the welder is will feed filler material onto the weld with single hand and operating the torch with another.
Difficulty –The process of feeding wire continuously makes the MIG easier than TIG. While using the TIG, you have to hold the welding with one hand and filler material with another. This is obviously very difficult and only professionals can handle it.
Object Thickness –Compared to TIG welding model, MIG can weld much thicker metals. If the metal you use are thin, then TIG is the suitable option.
Material Range –MIG works with most of the metal types like stainless steel, mild steel and aluminum. TIG welding is suitable metals that have thinner gauge.
Speed –MIG welding process is much faster making it suitable for tasks that require higher production rates. However, TIG has slower method which is suitable for detail and finesse works.
Project Size –It is one of the best ways to determine which welding form is suitable. MIG welds are suitable for large projects, thick metals and continuous runs. TIG welds are suitable for small projects and thinner metals as they provide clean and precise welds.
Control –MIG is much easier to control which makes it best for beginners. TIG welders require high skill level and expertise for balancing materials and timing using both hands.
Price –TIG welders are most costlier than MIG welders.
Appearance – Because of beautiful and clean finish, TIG welding is the most preferred option. They are often used for ornamental and artistic purposes.
Conclusion
TIG welders are one of the best options out there if you are looking for electric welders that can be used with different kinds of metal. Therefore, we have mentioned some of the best TIG welder options in this article. You can even find a detailed buying guide for these TIG welders in this article. It offers all of the information regarding these welders that can be quite useful for easily picking one for yourself. Although, if you are still not able to choose one, we are here with some of our own recommendations:
- If you want one of the most powerful TIG welders out there, then you can go with thePrimeweld TIG225X. As per its name, it is a 225 amp welder that supports both AC and DC currents. Due to this, you can use it with ¼ inch aluminum and ⅜ inch mild steel without any issues. You even get a 3-year warranty with this TIG welder.
- TheEverlast PowerARC 160STHcan be a great pick if you want the cheapest TIG welder present in this article. While it works only with DC current, it is quite lightweight and portable, with a rating of 160 amps. And despite its comparatively affordable price tag, you get a 5-year warranty with it that makes it highly reliable.
- You can also go with theAHP AlphaTIG 200Xas it comes with a 3-year warranty. And as per its name, it is a 200 amp TIG welder. But the great thing about this one is that it works with both AC and DC current that allows you to use it with various kinds of metals, including ¼ inch aluminum and ⅜ inch mild steel without any issues.
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