Gas Tungsten Arc Welding (GTAW) or TIG Welding
When most people hear the term welding, they think of metals being fused together, creating sparks similar to those produced by a 4th of July sparkler. This “messy” process of welding produces slag (i.e., byproducts that chips off the weld). It’s known as “Arc Welding” or “Shielded Metal Arc Welding” (SMAW) and is a very popular form of welding.
However, there is also a “clean” process of welding known as:
- “Gas Tungsten Arc Welding” (GTAW)
- “Gas Tungsten Arc” (GTA)
- “Tungsten Inert Gas” (TIG) Welding
- “heliarc welding”
- “fusion welding”
The terms above all refer to the same thing – a clean process of welding producing no slag. This type of welding is useful for critical applications, or when it’s necessary to produce a beautiful surface finish
Finished Aluminum Part after Chem Film and penetrant inspect
Aluminum Weld
The aerospace industry was one of the first industries to use Tungsten Inert Gas (TIG)/GasTunsten Arc Welding. It’s also used in the bicycle industry and in repair work, including the repair of tools and dies.
How does TIG/GTAW work?
TIG/GTAW is a complex process that requires years of training. It is often considered the most difficult weld process to learn, and requires master craftsmanship with surgical-like precision.
It involves the following:
- The TIG welder uses a torch with a tungsten electrode to melt the metal (tungsten is the metal used in old incandescent light bulbs, which causes light to be produced)
- An inert gas such as argon or helium is used to protect the molten metal from atmospheric contamination (which would otherwise cause gas pinholes and many other defects to appear)
- A filler material then is added by hand to the molten metal, thereby increasing the strength and size of the weld.
“Anoroc Precision Sheet Metal Inc has provided precision sheet metal components and assemblies to the military and commercial aerospace industries for the last 35 years. During that time frame, we have relied on Dan’s Certified Welding to provide us with quality workmanship per blueprint requirements with full traceability and certification of conformance. They have extensive welding experience on all types of alloys and have consulted with our engineering staff to assist in the design of quality welding fixtures to produce weldments that meet and exceed expectations. Their attention to detail coupled with their goal of providing customer satisfaction and on time-delivery keeps us coming back!”
– Roxanne Zavala, CEO Anoroc Precision Sheet Metal
21-6-9 Tube Welded with Full Penetration
View of penetration
Dan’s Certified Welding has a high level of skill, master level craftsmanship, and over 30 years of experience. In fact, GTAW is our specialty. When you need welding done for critical applications, give us a call. We’ll deliver the highest-quality GTAW – guaranteed or the job is free.
“Dan’s Certified Welding Inc has been part of a small group of suppliers QFI/PRV Aerospace has depended upon for over a decade. Combining great skill, attention to detail and excellent customer service, DCWI is able to stay far ahead of the competition.
My personal association with Dan’s goes back further, having work with and recommending them for over twenty years. Wherever I’ve been, the first stop for welding has always been here.
I would like to thank Reuben and company for all their help and professional service over the years and look forward to doing much more business together in the future. Thanks for Everything.”
– John Decew-Program Manager
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