TIG-welding: Processes

AC/DC

TIG welding methods are classified according to the welding current to DC TIG and AC TIG for direct current and alternating current, respectively. TIG welding power sources are suitable for both current types (AC/DC) or for only DC welding.

DC welding is typically used in welding a variety of metals. Alternating current must, however, be used in aluminium welding.

If current mixed of both direct and alternating current is used in TIG welding, the method is called MIX TIG welding. It is a particularly useful method when welding aluminium materials of different thicknesses together.

Pulsed TIG

In Pulse TIG welding, the power source pulses the welding current, which reduces the heat effect affecting the material being welded. This is useful particularly when welding thin materials in which the TIG heat input is great. Pulse welding also improves the manageability of the molten weld pool and the penetration.

The Kemppi Mastertig MLS welding machines, for example, allow for using the so-called synergic pulse TIG feature in which the pulse parameters are programmed in the machine and the user only needs to adjust the welding current.

Text source: Kemppi