Like MIG welding, TIG welding also specializes in fusing pieces of aluminum together. Dubbed tungsten inert gas, it is used to blend metals like aluminum and magnesium. During the procedure, welds are formed between the TIG-welders electrode and the surface worked on. A gas shield is formed, which produces a clean weld. Unlike the less versatile MIG weld, TIG welding allows its users to create different kinds of joints including butt, corner, T, and lap joints. Tig vs mig welding...
The big debate: tig vs mig welding. For novice metalworkers, the debate rages on: which is better, TIG or MIG welding? What are the differences between the two? For starters, the MIG welding processes joints metal together through arc heat.
The arc is added between the filler metal electrode and the surface area that is being worked on. TIG does not add its electrodes to the completed weld and no filler metals are used. Traditionally, MIG welding is quicker and easier to learn than TIG. MIG welding requires you to control a continuously fed current on a wire, while TIG welding obliges you to hold two items: the welding rod and an electric torch which is used to melt rods into the material.
Tig welding is a hallmark of more intricate work within the metalsmithing realm. Whereas MIG welding is mostly reserved to sheet metal work and automobile manufacturing with larger parts (ideal with softer metals since the pace of weld is quicker), TIG is used towards smaller ojects like gunsmithing, auto restoration that requires better finishes, and welding chrome for race cars. It is also suitable for more exotic metals and works at multiple amperages more efficiently than MIG welding.
One of the great metalworkers of our day, Ron Covell, says that Tig is best for custom projects like custom cars, motorcycles, and other similar projects. Althoug Mig creates very strong welds, Tig allows you to work with your welds easier during the fabrication process. You can work with your welds with much less worry of cracking or ruining your welds. Whereas with Mig, the welds are so strong (probably best for industrial types of projects), that they may crack as you work with them on your custom project.