TIG Welding or MIG Welding; Deciding Which Is Better

Posted by johnpreston on July 11th, 2017

Many project managers and other professionals often ask about the difference between MIG (metal inert gas) and TIG (tungsten inert gas) welding, and which one is better between the two.
 
The confusion between the two welding options is further compounded by the fact that they are both electrical arc processes. However, there is a key difference between these two welding forms, and in this difference lies the answer to the question, “Which is better?”

How the Welding Processes Work
 
A MIG Weld uses a metal wire as a filler to join the two metals. MIG welding involves feeding the wire into a welding spool, and as the wire burns and melts, it joins the two pieces together to create a solid weld.
   
By contrast, a TIG Weld joins metals using a nonconsumable tungsten electrode. The electrode is used to transmit current between the two pieces of metal. Whether to use a filler metal as well depends on the type of weld and metals involved.
 
How the Differences Translate In Real Life

The difference between how MIG and TIG welding work can be seen in two major areas: metal thickness and control.
 
Control

MIG welding is considered the easer option where control is concerned. This type of weld is not relied upon for precision, and is therefore preferred by nonprofessionals and inexperienced welders.
 
On the other hand, TIG welding requires the fabricator to balance electric current, pressure and timing, with all these factors having an impact on the result. It is for this reason that TIG welds are often automated and computerized, as with a CNC (computer numerically controlled) welding machine. Such a machine is capable of replicating identical welds infinitely, and is therefore highly reliable on the shop floor.
 
Metal Thickness

Another important concern when deciding between MIG and TIG welding has to do with the thickness of the metal in question.
 
MIG welding is preferred for thicker materials because the filler material is an efficient way to weld thick metals quickly. TIG welding is typically used on thinner metals because the process involves heating the actual metals until they are hot enough to bond together. This process is quick and efficient on thinner pieces of metal.

Choosing Between MIG and TIG Welding

There is no simple answer as to which welding technique is better when choosing between MIG and TIG welding. The answer depends on the specific fabrication project. Thicker metals require filler material to join effectively, so MIG welding would be more suitable in this case. Filler material is not immune to failure, however, so fabricators prefer to cut it out whenever possible. The technique of joining steel wires and small metals directly is effective, and so TIG welding is often preferred for this purpose.
 
Ultimately, your fabricator should make the final decision based on the project in question. Tech-Weld, Inc., for example, is a master fabricator that consistently uses the appropriate welding method in its manufacturing processes.  In combination with technologically advanced equipment, such as laser cutting, Tech-Weld can guarantee the best quality fabrication job.  Learn more about them at TechWeld.net.

CONTACT US:

Tech-Weld Inc.
801 E. North Street
Elburn, IL 60119, USA
Local Phone: 630.365.3000
Hotline: 800.521.8823
Fax: 630.365.0506
Email: sales@techweld.net