The selection of the type and diameter of Tungsten Tig Electrodes is crucial, as the arc is struck from these electrodes. This makes them integral to achieving a successful welding outcome.

Interested in learning more about Tungsten Rod Types? Contact us today for expert consultation! Proper sharpening of the Tungsten Tig Electrode is particularly important in DC Tig Welding.

Types of Tungsten Tig Electrodes

Tungsten Tig Electrodes come with color codes for easy identification, each suited for specific applications:

• Gold: 1.5% Lanthanated. Suitable for almost any material in both AC and DC output. These versatile electrodes are our primary stock.
• Red: 2% Thoriated. Best for Tig Welding Mild Steel and Stainless Steel.
• White: Zirconiated. Ideal for Tig Welding Aluminium.
• Grey: Ceriated. Usable on most metals with AC or DC output, though Gold type is often preferred.
• Green: Pure. Specifically for Aluminium and Magnesium.

These types cover most common applications, though there are a few other specific types available.

Sharpening

Sharpening Tungsten Tig Electrodes is only necessary for DC Tig Welding applications. The method of sharpening greatly influences welding performance.

While there are varying opinions on the exact shape, a sharp, pencil-like point is generally preferred.

As a rule of thumb, the point's length should be 2.5 times the diameter of the Tungsten. For instance, a 1.6mm diameter Tungsten should have a 4.0mm point, while a 2.4mm Tungsten should have a 6.0mm point.

Ensure grinding lines run along the length of the Tungsten to avoid arc instability.

Note: Always wear appropriate respiratory protection while grinding.

AC Welding and Tig Tungsten Electrodes

For AC output applications, such as Tig welding Aluminium, there's no need to sharpen the Tungsten.

However, it is advisable to put a small chamfer on the end, which will form into a dome as you start welding. If the dome becomes larger in diameter than the Tungsten, switch to a larger Tungsten.

Electrode Stick-Out

Determining the correct stick-out length of a Tig Tungsten Electrode depends on various factors.

Generally, having about 5-6mm of Tungsten extending from the Ceramic Gas Shroud is a good starting point.

Maintaining gas shield integrity around the arc is crucial. For situations like welding into corners or blind holes, good gas shield integrity allows for more Tungsten stick-out. If increased stick-out compromises gas shield integrity, increase the gas flow.

Conclusion

Choosing the right Tungsten Tig Electrode is essential for effective Tig Welding. Additionally, sharpening techniques significantly impact performance in DC applications.

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What are the differences between types of tungsten electrodes?

Tungsten electrodes are crucial in Tungsten Inert Gas (TIG) welding and plasma welding, used to join various metals. These non-consumable electrodes come in diverse sizes, lengths, and compositions, including pure tungsten and tungsten alloys with rare-earth elements and oxides.

The choice of electrode is influenced by the base material type, its thickness, and whether you use alternating current (AC) or direct current (DC). Color-coding helps easily identify each type, with pure tungsten electrodes typically marked green. TIG welding produces clean, precise welds, ideal for thin materials and visible surfaces.

Different electrodes have unique color bands for identification, but other key differences should also be considered:

EWTh-2: 2% Thoriated Tungsten – Red
Known for durability, high current capacity, and excellent arc starts. Best used with DC negative polarity and less effective with AC.

EWLa-2: 2% Lanthanated Tungsten – Blue
Offers excellent arc starting and current carrying capabilities. Suitable for both direct and alternating current.

EWP: Pure Tungsten – Green
Provides excellent arc stability and is mostly used with AC. Tungsten emission is higher compared to alloyed electrodes.

EWCe-2: 2% Ceriated Tungsten – Gray
Previously marked with an orange band, it boasts excellent arc starting and current carrying abilities, and can endure many arc cycles.

For more details, please visit Fine Tungsten Wire.