Tungsten Inert Gas welding is another type of welding that you can try out. How to TIG Weld on a Modern Car is a very critical operation that requires much attention. TIG is suitable for welding in titanium, copper, among others, and it is an incredible application that is suitable for tricky welds.
In the market, you will find different TIG welder types under 1000 that can have your task correctly done. TIG works amazingly, generating heat through an electric arc that jumps from the tungsten metallic electrode to your metallic surface, i.e., steel or steel.
If you don’t know the meaning of TIG, it merely stands for Tungsten Inert Gas. TIG welding is a modern technology that many people use to add beauty elements to cars. This article provides comprehensive information on how you can easily TIG weld on a current vehicle.
Step by step guide on how to weld on a modern car
When TIG welding on a modern car, you may find that whatever you are doing is overhead or inverted welding. These positions are the trickiest of all; how do you feel when working with something over your head.
Sometimes you may feel insecure if you don’t have an assistant; the reason being, controlling the pedal holder may be more challenging. If you don’t have a lot of experience, it might also be challenging to manage the TIG and filter rod. Follow this guide to carry out the task safely and correctly.
Step 1: Choosing the Electrode
Sometimes, this TIG comes with the right electrodes that you may not have to struggle for unless they are over. For this case, you need the right Electrode; if you are operating with aluminum material, go for a clear tungsten rod.
Alternatively, you can decide to use electrodes with tungsten alloys such as thoriated tungsten that is radioactive. These types of tungsten electrodes are suitable for welding particular metal alloys. Remember, the right Electrode will result in better results.
Step 2: Grinding your Electrode
Before kicking off your task, there is a need to grind the rod to get a rounded tip. Doing so is useful, especially if the electrode rod has its brand-new cylindrical shape. When welding, the rod’s end will be round as a result of heat.
More so, this pointed tip is ideal for giving a more-directed and a smaller arc. The arc will then dance round from the rounded end.
Step 3: Inserting your Electrode in a collet
Unscrew the electrode holder’s back or chamber, insert your rod carefully and then reinstall the end. Remember to leave about ¼ inch space when inserting the rode from a protective sheath; let not the area exceed ¼ inch.
However, if your Electrode is ready, there is no need to undergo this step; jump to the next one. But, sometimes it is advisable to have a look at your Electrode’s situation. Confirm whether to add the other for how long?
Step 4: Confirm settings
The most typical electricity settings in a TIG rig may include; DCEP, AC, and DCEN. If you are using aluminum, select “AC”; set the “penetrating/cleaning” setting to a more “penetrating.”
DCEP is for “DC Electrode Positive,”; useful for balling your welding tungsten stick or tip. On the other hand, DCEN is for “DC, Electrode Negative,” mainly for steel welding.
The difference between these two DC electrode’s settings is that electricity direction flows from the Electrode to the metal or vice versa.
Step 5: Inspecting the area for TIG welding
Under this step, what you should be sure of is your work area. Check the place you want to handle. Sometimes you may have to unscrew the parts from the car and unscrew them separately or aside. Therefore, what you should be keen about is the electric wires to avoid unnecessary shocks.
If you plan to work in intricate areas, there is a need to call for a helper. No man is an island, and no man stands alone. Why don’t you seek the help of an assistant? He/she should be there to supply you with the necessary materials or adjust settings on your behalf during TIG welding.
If you are working in an overhead position, you may need a ladder or a standing stool, or anything stable to reach the work area. Therefore, it is good to prepare the work area and inspect the type of material you will be handling to correct Electrode’s settings.
Step 6: Switch ON your Gas
Under this step, choosing the right gas is essential for keeping off the weld from corrosion; metals may rust in high temperatures. Therefore, if you are handling aluminum material, choose pure argon, while for steel, choose a carbon/argon dioxide mixture.
Step 7: Welding
Welding is the main stage that you should be much careful about. Take your Electrode at about 1” from the work metal. Remember not to hold the metal you are working on with bare hands.
Begin the TIG welding process from an edge before forming a weld pool. Overheating the metal; it may warp. The warping is responsible for holding the piece of metal in the right place. This will help you remove the clamps when doing a long big bead weld.
After kicking off the weld pool, you can adjust the pedal for controlling the heat and current production on the metal. Also, know that welds shrink cool; alternate the sides to maintain your welds even.
Please wait for the metal to cool down before installing it back to its position.
FAQs
Can I touch the metal am working on with bare hands?
It would not help if you did not hold the metal you are handling with bare hands; molten aluminum may leap into the Electrode.
What do I need when working on an overhead TIG weld position?
Overhead position or inverted are the trickiest ones in TIG welding; there, you may need an assistant and a ladder or stand stool.
What is the meaning of DCEN?
DCEN is for “DC, Electrode Negative,” which is mainly for steel welding.
Conclusion
Modern cars look amazing with TIG welds, mostly when the welder is an expert. Sometimes how to TIG weld on a modern car can be tricky, especially when you plan to work in inverted or overhead positions.
Though it is good to carry out some tasks for yourself, here you will need a helper. Use this handy guide to perform the job efficiently.
You may read our other article: What Are The Best Truck Brands?