MIG vs TIG Welding: The Key Differences Explained

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Last Updated on April 16, 2024 by John Patterson

MIG vs TIG Welding: The Key Differences Explained

Mig vs. Tig welding is a trendy topic in the welding industry.

In this researched article, we tried to give you a helpful idea about the differences between Mig and Tig welding.

When it comes to the job of welding there are several processes of welding.

Among them, some of the types are very advanced, whereas some are very rudimentary.

However, if you’re going to work in a chop shop or do some welding at home, there are mainly two processes you need to know.

MIG and TIG welding are the most common forms of welding. Both kinds produce heat and join metal objects by the electric arc process. Also, both the MIG and TIG welding processes use inert gases to prevent corrosion of electrodes. As you know, before starting any welding job, we need to choose the best welding machine for our projects.

Still, MIG vs. TIG Welding formats has a few significant differences.

So, let’s take a closer look at those fundamental differences.

MIG vs. TIG Welding: Difference Between Mig and Tig Welding

MIG and TIG, both welding processes, perform the same job. They protect the weld pool of the metal objects from the atmosphere by an inert gas shroud. But how do they differ from each other?? Here’s how –

difference between mig and tig

How do the MIG and TIG Welding Processes work?

The MIG welding procedure feeds a metallic wire continuously into the weld being made.

The supply of the consumable welding to the cable works as a filler material. Thus, the process helps to link two metal objects together.

Besides, the process requires the presence of inert gases for welding. That’s why the method is known as GMAW or Gas Metal Arc Welding.

MIG Welding

On the other hand, TIG welding may use or may not use a filler material to supply welding.

TIG welding runs a current through the metals using a non-consumable tungsten electrode. However, this process is known as GTAW (Gas Tungsten Arc Welding).

TIG Welding

Welding of Thicker Material Objects 

As MIG welding does welding with a filler material, it can often weld thicker metals quickly. TIG doesn’t use any filler material.

In this method, the metal pieces must be hot enough to weld. The TIG process makes welding thinner materials easier than thicker materials.

Overall, for more abundant materials, MIG welding is the best option. And for welding thin metal pieces, TIG welding is the most effective option. All you need to have is a quality tig machine for your projects.

Control Process 

To say, MIG welding is often easier than TIG. The process allows the chance of a few mistakes than TIG welding. So, for non-professional operators, it is usually recommended to do MIG welding.

On the contrary, TIG controls the pressure and electric current very strictly. It is better to do TIG welding using a computer-controlled welding instrument. Machines perform welding better than manual welders.

MIG and TIG Welding – Which Is the Best? 

MIG welding is often the best option for heavy welding work. MIG welding is the most suited for welding thicker metals as it employs filler material. However, TIG welding is better for joining small pieces of metal.

The TIG process connects two pieces of metal directly without any filler material. As the process doesn’t involve any filler material, the cost of welding supplies is a bit low. For the welding of robotic equipment, TIG welding requires lower maintenance.

In this process, the welding electrode isn’t continuously consumed by the welding. In short, TIG MIG, which method of welding is better, depends on the types of jobs.

To complete both welding jobs, we need to choose the best welding machine among the top welder brands in the market. Vulcan ProTIG 165 Welder can be the best option if you are looking for a pro tig welder.

FAQs

#1. Question: How do MIG & TIG Welding Differ from Each Other?

Answer: The two processes differ from each other by their functional attitude. MIG welding needs the presence of filler materials for joining metal pieces. A metal wire that consumes the welding supply acts as a filler material in this process. On the other hand, TIG welding joins two pieces of metal directly without any use of filler material.

#2. Question: What is the Role of Inert Gases in the Welding Process?

Answer: The inert gases in the welding process protect the area of the weld from water vapors and oxygen. Depending on the types of metals, these gases reduce the weld quality or make the welding harder. The odd choice of inert gases tends to be a weak and porous weld. As a result, there’s a risk of loss of productivity in welding.

#3. Question What is the best Mig welder?

Answer: A few high-quality models will be available in 2023. Check this list to find the perfect match for your kind of job.

#4. How to wire a 220v outlet for a welder?

Answer: Framing Nailers Guide team has written a step-by-step guide to give a clear idea.

In Conclusion:

Now that you know the various aspects of Tig vs. Mig Welding and the differences between Mig and Tig, it will be easier for you to do the welding yourself. MIG welding is suitable for almost all types of metals. Especially, MIG welding is better for thicker kinds of steel.

Again, TIG welding is ideal for welding thinner materials. Moreover, there is no necessity to use filler material in the TIG welding process. So, depending on the types of elements, you should decide which method to apply to weld.

Still, if you are confused about welding mig vs. tig, let us know by commenting here.

Related Reading: 
#1. Exhaust Clamps vs. Exhaust Welding

About the author

John Patterson

Hi there! My name is John Patterson. I’m a meticulous guy who loves to deal with the perfect tools for various needs. No matter if it’s a woodworking tool or gardening tool or anything else, I don’t compromise the quality and usability. Since 2010 I’ve been testing different tools for different DIY and professional tasks. Later in 2015, I decided to share my knowledge with the world. I started by answering people in the forums and several Q/A sites like Quora. Then I founded this blog to aid others like you with my knowledge and experience.

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