Ive gathered up a few different dvd's on TIG (GTAW) welding and what I see is they all mostly do the same thing....but some work the torch differently while they use filler...some just move the torch slowly forward while adding filler....some move the torch forward to move the puddle then back the torch up and add filler....you get the idea different people have different techniques....can someone explain why these guys have different ways of doing it....most the guys in these video's have been welding for 30+ years and are certified welders doing xray work....you would think they all use the same techniques...???

 

Not everyone is able to use the same exact technique, it's all about preference. Some like adding filler as they go, some like adding it after the puddle. whatever way is easiest is and the most comfortable for those people.

 

They also seem to be running different cfm on the argon even when using the same cup size....i guess its learn the basics then jump in.

 

There are 12423321 different ways to tig weld. Concentrate on learning one way. I recommend learning how to just move the torch forward at a steady rate while pushing the filler rod into the puddle continuesly. No dipping. no weaving. no pulsing. no walking. this will allow you to master the fundamentals. After you master welding that way all the other methods will be easier to learn and they all have their place.

 

*thumbs up*
any other suggestions from the welders on ht?

 

I agree with this. really no reason to weave or do anything fancy, unless you are walking the cup but that is a whole different thing altogether.

 

like anything else, it is just arc time. the more you do it, the better you'll get at it. just try to be as steady as you can. you will find it will help with being consistent. i always rest my hand on something as i move along. i even like to have my filler hand resting on something so the damn filler isn't waving around all over the place. concentrate on making small movements, don't go crazy fast. just take your time and be patient.

 

consistency is huge and work on being able to push the puddle at a steady pace continuously, not stopping and going. have the torch at a 45 to 70 degree angle with the flame pushing towards where you want the puddle to go. whatever works for you, it doesnt matter if you weave or dip the filler rod, in the end it will be sanded down for a smooth finish.

 

the people that make the big bucks dont need this step

 

depends on what you are doing. some things I build at work, dont get sanded down, other jobs call for the welds to be sanded down smooth. the customers dont care if they are baller tig welds or not, lol

 

anyone have any tips or tricks they would like to add?

 

clean, clean, clean, and when you get done cleaning, clean some more! you will have such a better experience if you get into the routine of only welding on nicely prepped material. just practice as much as you can, dont get frustrated when it doesnt always work out. fitment is huge too. the more you weld, the more you will understand the weld pool and how you move the torch and add the filler affects it. also, get comfortable. when welding at a bench there isnt a reason that you have to contort yourself to weld, save that for welding cages

 

if the filler ***** up and runs away from the puddle push it in faster or grab bigger filler

 

clean material is key for sure. i have a stainless brush i only use on stainless, a stainless brush i only use on aluminum and a mild brush for mild to prevent cross contamination. i don't like to use chemicals to clean anything. i also have a stainless wire wheel on my bench grinder for only stainless. they are pricey, but well worth it. if you have clean material to begin with it will save you a lot of time. i use sanitary grade stainless for quite a bit of stuff and i just fit and weld with no cleaning prep at all.

also keep your tungsten clean. investing in a gas lense is going to make a huge difference as well.

 

does anyone recommend one of these cheapy tigs off ebay to start with?? i can get the whole setup (tig, torch, regulator, pedal etc) for around $600 shipped with 3 year warranty. what i will be saving up for later is a miller 200 dx.

 

I would stay clear from those. search ebay and craigslist for a used syncrowave 180sd or something