TIG Welding (Svařování TIG)
Today we're talking about the method we reach for when a customer wants a truly beautiful, clean, and high-quality weld – TIG welding (also known as WIG or GTAW).
What exactly is TIG welding?
TIG stands for Tungsten Inert Gas. In simple terms, it's welding with a non-consumable tungsten electrode in a protective atmosphere of inert gas (most commonly pure argon).
How it works in plain words:
- An electric arc is created between the tungsten electrode (which doesn't melt) and the metal you want to weld.
- This arc melts the material.
- A constant flow of argon surrounds the arc, shielding the molten metal from the air – this prevents oxidation and keeps the weld extremely clean.
- Filler material (a rod or wire) is added manually – the welder decides exactly how much and how fast to "feed" it into the weld pool.
That's why TIG gives the welder the greatest level of control compared to most other common welding methods.
Why is TIG so popular?
- The weld looks almost like a mirror – very little spatter, no big lumps, beautiful appearance
- You can weld really thin sheets (from as little as 0.4 mm) without burning through
- Excellent results on aluminium, stainless steel, titanium, copper, and special alloys
- The finished weld is extremely strong and clean – perfect for food industry, pharmaceuticals, pressure vessels, or visible decorative elements
- Works in all positions (horizontal, vertical, overhead)
- Can even be done without filler material (so-called autogenous weld)
Where do we most often use TIG in real life?
- Repairing aluminium tanks and parts on agricultural machinery
- Welding stainless steel pipes, tanks, and structures for food processing and breweries
- Repairing exhaust systems, intercoolers, and other car components
- Fabrication and repair of stainless steel railings, staircases, and design elements
- Root passes on thick-walled steel constructions (when you need a perfect penetration from the back side)
What are the main disadvantages of TIG?
It's slower than MIG/MAG or stick (electrode) welding. It requires a lot of skill and practice. Argon (or argon+helium mixtures) is more expensive than CO₂ mixes used for MIG. It's not the best choice for fast, high-volume production.
When is TIG the right choice for you?
Choose TIG when you need:
- maximum quality and aesthetics
- welding on aluminium or stainless steel
- repair of thin material without distortion
- a visible weld where appearance really matters (e.g. designer furniture, staircases, exhausts)
That's exactly why TIG is so frequently requested here in Třebíč, across Vysočina, and during mobile jobs in Brno, Jihlava, or even Prague.
Do you have something at home or in your workshop that needs precise TIG welding? Just drop us a message or give us a call – we're happy to come to you with our mobile setup and advise on the best approach.