What Is TIG in Welding? A Deep Dive into One of the Cleanest Welding Processes

If you’re looking for precision, cleanliness, and control in your welding applications, TIG in welding is a process that stands out. Whether you’re fabricating stainless steel handrails or working on intricate aluminium components, TIG welding offers unmatched quality and a cleaner finish than most other welding techniques.

But what exactly is TIG welding, how does it work, and what equipment do you need? In this guide, we’ll break it all down and show you where to find the best TIG welders in the UK — right here at Welder’s Choice.

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What Does TIG in Welding Mean?

TIG stands for Tungsten Inert Gas welding, also known as GTAW (Gas Tungsten Arc Welding). It’s a manual welding process that uses a non-consumable tungsten electrode to produce the weld. The weld area is shielded from atmospheric contamination by an inert gas, typically argon or a mix of argon and helium.

TIG in welding is highly valued for its ability to produce clean, high-quality welds with excellent bead appearance. It’s ideal for applications that require precise, low-spatter welds — including aerospace, automotive, food-grade stainless fabrication, and pipe welding.

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Key Features of TIG Welding

• Precision and control: You control heat input and filler material independently.
• Versatility: Works on thin or thick materials, including aluminium, stainless steel, copper, titanium, and more.
• No spatter: Because no filler is required unless added manually, there’s minimal mess.
• Strong, clean welds: Especially useful where weld aesthetics or x-ray quality welds are needed.

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How Does TIG Welding Work?

TIG in welding uses an arc between the non-consumable tungsten electrode and the workpiece. The welder may use a filler rod, but it’s not always necessary. The arc and weld area are protected by a stream of inert shielding gas.

In TIG welding, you often need to manually feed the filler rod with one hand while holding the torch in the other — giving you full control but requiring more skill than MIG or Stick welding.

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What Do You Need for TIG Welding?

To perform TIG in welding, you’ll need:

• A TIG welder with DC or AC/DC output if you plan to weld aluminium.
• A TIG torch with a tungsten electrode.
• Filler rods appropriate for your base material.
• An inert shielding gas, usually argon.
• A gas regulator or flow meter.
• PPE: gloves, auto-darkening welding helmet, and fire-resistant clothing.

At Welder’s Choice, we stock a wide range of TIG welders, torches, and consumables from top brands like Stahlwerk, Miller, and Helvi — all available with fast UK delivery. Browse TIG welders now.

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TIG vs MIG: What’s the Difference?

You may be wondering how TIG welding compares to MIG welding. Here’s a quick breakdown:

Feature	TIG Welding	MIG Welding
Electrode Type	Non-consumable tungsten	Consumable wire
Shielding Gas	Argon or argon/helium	Argon/CO₂ mix
Weld Appearance	Very clean, smooth, neat	Less clean, more spatter
Skill Level Needed	High	Moderate
Ideal For	Thin metals, aluminium, stainless	Thicker metals, mild steel
Speed	Slower	Faster

Verdict: TIG welding is slower but offers better weld quality, especially when detail and appearance matter.

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What Materials Can You TIG Weld?

TIG in welding is one of the most versatile welding processes, capable of welding:

• Stainless steel – Common in food, medical, and marine applications.
• Aluminium – Using AC output and a balance control feature.
• Mild steel – Perfect for intricate fabrication.
• Copper and brass – With proper technique and settings.
• Titanium – Used in motorsport, aerospace, and medical components.

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Our Top Picks for TIG Welders

Ready to invest in your first TIG machine or upgrade to a better unit? Here are some of our most popular options:

Stahlwerk AC/DC TIG 200 Pulse Digital

An affordable yet powerful AC/DC TIG welder — ideal for both aluminium and stainless. Includes pulse welding function for thin materials.

Miller Maxstar 210 DX

Premium DC TIG machine, perfect for stainless and mild steel. Compact, reliable, and built for professional use.

Helvi 211 AC/DC Tig Welder

Great for mobile TIG in welding, DC Tig Welding, AC Tig Welding Aluminium , Arc Welding and also MMA/Stick Welding.

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TIG Welding Tips for Beginners

1. Start with DC and steel – Get comfortable before moving on to aluminium.
2. Keep the tungsten sharp – A properly shaped tip helps arc stability.
3. Use the correct gas – 100% argon is best for most TIG work.
4. Steady hands are key – Use a finger rest or slide for precision.
5. Invest in a foot pedal – Allows better amperage control while welding.

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TIG in Welding: Is It Right for You?

If you need clean, precise welds and are working with stainless steel or aluminium, TIG in welding is the way to go. While it takes more time and skill, the results speak for themselves. Whether you’re repairing bike frames, welding pressure pipe, or fabricating stainless tanks, TIG gives you control, beauty, and strength.

Looking to get started or upgrade your setup? At Norsemen Safety, we’ve got you covered.

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Final Thoughts

TIG welding remains the gold standard for clean, strong, and precise welds. While it may not be the fastest process, it’s the preferred method when quality counts.

With the right equipment and some practice, TIG welding can elevate your fabrication skills and open the door to a wider range of jobs — from artistic projects to high-end industrial work.

If you’re in the market for a TIG welder in the UK, check out Welder’s Choice at Norsemen Safety — your go-to source for reliable machines, top brands, and expert advice.