TIG Setup

With a TIG setup, the electrode is a tungsten wire. The electrode is not the filler material, as it is with the other processes. The filler is typically a long handheld rod instead of a wire feed spool, and you control the amperage using a foot pedal.

BOTTLED GAS

For a TIG setup, you’ll use either pure argon or an argon/ helium mix. A filled tank costs $80 to $200 depending on the tank size and mixture.

FOOT PEDAL

The foot pedal controls the amperage going to the gun. Some alloys are sensitive to thermal shock, which causes materials to expand at different rates, causing stress and even cracking. The variable amperage allows for a soft start and stop, helping eliminate thermal shock.

FILLER ROD

In TIG welding, the filler material is fed by hand. Filler rods are available in different sizes and alloys to suit the job.

The electrical arc in TIG welding is created by a tungsten electrode in the gun. The arc and shielding gas are activated by pressing the trigger. If you don’t want a foot pedal to control amperage, you can get a TIG gun with amperage control on the gun.

WELDING GUN

The ground clamp completes the electrical circuit to create the arc. Clamp it to clean metal for the best results.

GROUND CLAMP