Every welding process has its own advantages and disadvantages. In every single process, there is an electric arc constituted between the base metals and the electrode procured from welding electrodes suppliers, which is used to supply heat to fuse the surfaces of the metals.
Hence, the process that best suits a project would depend on the requirements of the project itself. However, the debate of whether MIG is better than TIG or vice-versa is an age-old debate.
Both the processes use an electric arc to fuse two different metals. The heat produced from the electric arc creates a pool of molten metal between the two metals. As this metal hardens, it turns into a single piece. Filler metal is fed to the puddle so that the metals can stick together. It is shielded from the impurities present in the air with the help of shielding gas.
If impurities enter the weld, bubbles may form resulting in the loss of the strength of the weld. Both processes also use a bare electrode which can be procured from welding electrodes manufacturers. While these are certain similarities, the following are the ways in which they differ:
The arc of the MIG welding is created using a torch-like gun that consists of a wire that has an electric current passing through it. Thus, it uses a consumable electrode that can be availed from welding electrodes manufacturers in India. The arc of the TIG on the other hand is formed using a rod made of tungsten.
The arc of the MIG is quite large and tends to give high levels of heat input. However, since it is spread out on an area that is quite wide, the penetration created is lesser than a TIG weld. TIG consists of narrow arcs but they are more accurate, thus developing finer welds.
In the case of TIG, the weld pool requires the filler wire which is fed to it by hand. This makes the process a little bit more complicated, thus making it quite slow. When it comes to MIG, however, a spool that is placed inside the machine is used to feed the wire. It passes through the rollers directly into the nozzle of the gun. Thus, making it a speedier process.
Given that the process of TIG welding is quite time-consuming, the welds it produces of the best quality possible. They are much stronger as the penetration is quite deep and is more difficult to separate. MIG welds on the other hand do not offer deep penetration. They aren’t perfect as small holes tend to develop in them. The holes make it difficult to seal tanks or any pressure vessels correctly.
One of the most important factors that you will need to consider for any project is the cost of the weld. Since it’s a slower process, TIG welding costs more. The consumables are also slightly costlier. However, if you choose the right welding electrode suppliers in India, you can finalize a good deal.
It’s mostly the speed of the weld that makes it a more expensive venture. MIG is obviously the cost-effective option since it can create welds at a faster rate than TIG welding. The penetration work is also lesser in the case of MIG.
Also Read: What are the Four Types of Welding?
It is difficult to conclusively say that one process is better than the other. It is important to take into consideration the needs of your project and choose accordingly. It entirely depends on what you choose to prioritize - time, quality, or the equipment used.