ABSTRACT
Welded structures with high strength and superior quality are in demand in critical applications in fields such as aerospace, nuclear and defence industries. Among the conventionally available processes, tungsten inert gas (TIG) welding occupies an imperative role in the manufacturing industries due to its process efficiency in terms of achieving better weld properties and joint integrity. It is a versatile process used to weld tiny objects to huge structures with a nominal capital cost. In this chapter, the fundamentals of the TIG welding process including the power sources, equipment and consumables used are discussed. The roles of process parameters like welding current, voltage and travel speed and their effect on productivity are explored. With advancements in the equipment or sub-systems used in TIG welding, the process is enhanced over time. The modifications and variations adapted in this process are also covered in this chapter. Although TIG welding has several advantages over the conventional arc welding process, certain aspects that limit the usage of this process are also addressed.
