IF you are searching for tips on how to TIG stainless steel, I hope this page helps you.
There are over 50 videos here on how to tig stainless.
### Importance of Gas Shielding in TIG Welding Stainless Steel
In TIG (Tungsten Inert Gas) welding, especially when working with stainless steel, gas shielding is critical for several reasons. Here's a simple explanation:
#### 1. **Protection from Contamination**
- **Shielding Gas**: Argon is the most common shielding gas in TIG stainless steel welding. and in fact, the most common shielding gas across the board for tig welding all types of metals.
- **Purpose**: The argon shielding gas creates a protective atmosphere around the weld area, preventing contamination from oxygen, nitrogen, and other atmospheric gases.
- **Result**: This protection helps maintain the integrity of the weld and also helps the weld pool flow better.
#### 2. **Prevention of Oxidation**
- **Oxidation**: When stainless steel is exposed to air at high temperatures, it oxidizes, forming a layer of oxides.
- **Effect**: If this oxidation is excessive, it can compromise the stainless properties.
- **Solution**: Shielding gas prevents oxidation by displacing the air around the weld, resulting in a smooth, shiny, and clean weld.
#### 3. **Improved Weld Quality**
- **Consistent Arc**: Shielding gas helps stabilize the welding arc, ensuring consistent heat application and better control.
- **Weld Strength**: By protecting the weld from impurities, the gas helps maintain the mechanical properties of the stainless steel, resulting in a stronger and more durable weld.
#### 4. **Corrosion Resistance**
- **Chromium Oxide Layer**: Stainless steel’s corrosion resistance is due to a thin layer of chromium oxide.
- **Importance of Clean Welds**: A clean, oxide-free weld allows this protective layer to form correctly, maintaining the corrosion resistance of the material.
### How to Ensure Proper Gas Shielding:
- **Use Pure Argon**: Ensure you use high-purity argon or an appropriate argon-based mixture as your shielding gas.
- **Flow Rate**: Flow rate is usually determined by the cup size used. Set the gas flow rate correctly to cover the weld area adequately without wasting gas. Usually 2-3 times the cup size will be a good flow rate...example: a #10 cup x 2.5 = 25 cfh.
- **Proper Setup**: Make sure the welding torch and gas nozzles are in good condition and correctly positioned to ensure optimal gas coverage.
Autogenous is a fancy term for welding without using filler rod.
Sanitary stainless tubing is welded without filler metal.