Shielded Metal Arc Welding: MIG & TIG Welding Techniques

Many people ask about the types of welding used to repair cars, trucks, frames, boats, fences, and more. This post discusses the different types of arc welding techniques , including MIG (metal inert gas) and TIG (tungsten inert gas) welding. We'll consider shielded metal arc welding, a common technique, in the comparison of MIG and TIG welding. Although early welding practices were used thousands of years ago, the frequently used welding methods we use today began in the nineteenth century:

• In 1881, Nikolai Benardos demonstrated arc welding for the first time. The Russian inventor used a carbon rod electrode and a metal rod to make the joint.
• Later, Oscar Kjellberg created the covered electrode in early 20th century Sweden.

Shielded Metal Arc Welding Also known as stick welding , shielded metal arc welding uses electricity to establish an electrical arc between the electrode and filler metal. This arc generates the heat needed to melt the metal while the electrode offers filler and flux, a chemical flowing agent. Shielded metal arc welding uses a flux-coated electrode to establish the arc as it surrounds the weld puddle with shielding gas to prevent contamination of the surrounding atmosphere. Many construction industry professionals use shielded metal arc welding to repair equipment in the field . Self-shielding stick electrodes may reduce the types of repair equipment needed in the contractor's worksite. Stick welding also offers some weld bead protection when repairs are performed outdoors. Whether a contractor owns one or hundreds of different tools, equipment will break in the performance of daily tasks. A quick weld can be an easy fix to get things up and running. If specific tools are prone to breakage, it's important to reinforce them. MIG Welding MIG welding is likely to be the go-to method for many car and truck repairs. Sometimes called gas metal arc welding (GMAW), MIG welding may sometimes involve the use of active and inert gases. Steel wire is fed into the MIG gun contact tip, and then wire and metal are heated to make the welding puddle. Argon gas, a commonly used shielding gas, is then streamed to the MIG gun. MIG welds are widely considered to be more efficient than shielded arc welds. There are fewer needs to stop and start the process which can help produce better quality welds. MIG welding is often used in robotic welding processes as well. Over time, sheet metal takes a beating. With few exceptions, the metal floors of vehicles suffer after exposure to the elements. Your vehicle's floor pan is often forgotten but, commonly, older cars harbor rust. You may own a collector car with an original or already replaced metal floor or floor pan. MIG welding may be used in the repair or replacement project. TIG Welding TIG welding, also called gas tungsten arc welding (GTAW) uses tungsten, a non-combustible material, as the electrode. The welding puddle is also formed from a melted base metal. Fill metal is then added to the result with a rod or filler wire. The necessary shielding gas is fed by a ceramic spout on the gun. TIG welding is typically considered to be of a higher caliber than MIG. The weld is traditionally created with target metals, e.g. hardened steel, and may be used with a wider number of alloys or metals. According to the National Hot Rod Association (NHRA) TIG welding is often the best option for safely welding roll cages. Although TIG welding isn't necessary for every roll cage repair, most vehicles used in competitive motorsports are TIG-welded as a safety measure. Roll cages must withstand many impacts to protect the driver. One of the metals used in the roll cage, Chromoly, is prone to cracks. Therefore, improperly welded roll cages are a big safety issue. Some racing enthusiasts also use MIG welds for their vehicles. However, the steel adds extra weight to the roll cage and many owners consider it less suitable for their race cars. TIG welding involves a complex series of fitting, tacking, vertical, and upward welding methods. When the strength of the vehicle's roll cage is critical, TIG welding is likely to be used. At Sam's Welding, no job is too large or too small for our team of experienced welders . We're here when you need the highest standards in welding repairs in California. Our commitment to fabrication services and welding repairs can save you money. Contact us for reliable service now.