How to Tig Weld: Equipment

So, when TIG welding you need a solid work surface to weld from. In this case, our workbench has a clean, completely bare metal surface. This makes it easier for grounding. Weld clamp, I can ground it anywhere on this table as long as the clamp is attached to it. Next, we have the welder.

This is a Precision TIG, 225 air cooled machine. The bigger difference between air cooled and liquid cooled is going to be your torch size. But, basic operations, power as well as mode, TIG or Stick. Well, we're obviously TIG welding so we're on the right setting. Cleaning, this is only for AC so you don't need to really mess with that balance and usually the auto setting works perfect.

Next is the pulse frequency. That is the current that is going to be alternating on AC current as well. When you set this up you'll realize the blinking light is what is actually the well pulse is going to look like coming out of the torch. For mild steel we don't need that. And next is postflow.

Postflow is the amount of seconds after you've ended the arc that the inert gas will continue to flow out of the torch. I usually like to keep it around 15. Next is the polarity, this big switch at the bottom. DC negative is what you're gonna need for welding stainless steel, mild steel. AC is what you needed for welding aluminum.

DC positive, it does get used but only for balling the tungsten, not aluminum. It's main purpose is for stick welding. The most common type of controlling the arc is the foot pedal but there is another option, and that is a thumb control that would be located on the torch. I prefer the foot control because it's easier to maintain consistent distance with the torch from your work surface when you're not fiddling with knobs on the torch. Next you have your inert gas.

100% Argon is most commonly used because of its expense is less than helium. This is the regulator. The regulator is gonna show you how much gas and PSI is actually coming out of the torch, so right here we got it set up at 15. You wanna keep it between 15 to 20 PSI. This next gauge, over here, shows you how much pressure is in the tank.

And of course, this is your adjustment for changing your gas flow. Next, we're gonna talk about tungsten types and sharpening.