TIG orbital welding: For automated build-up welding in manufacturing and repair
TIG orbital welding is particularly suitable for applications that require high accuracy and reproducibility, such as the manufacture of pipes and other round moulded parts. This welding process also offers higher welding speeds and greater efficiency compared to the semi-automated TIG welding process.
- TIG orbital welding: Optimal results in build-up welding with the use of the right process gases.
- How does TIG orbital welding work?
- Which shielding gas is the right one for TIG orbital welding?
- Low-oxide TIG orbital welding with additive hydrogen content
- Improvement of penetration behaviour through higher thermal conductivity of argon-helium gas mixtures in TIG orbital welding
- Overview of inert gases for TIG orbital welding
- Training courses and practical seminars for accident-free and safe working in TIG orbital welding
TIG orbital welding: Optimal results in build-up welding with the use of the right process gases
TIG orbital welding is a variant of TIG welding in which electric current is used to melt and join the metal. It differs from TIG welding in that, in TIG orbital welding, the welding process is largely automated to ensure a smooth and continuous welding motion.
TIG orbital welding is a TIG welding process used to produce high-quality, precise weld seams. The term "TIG" stands for "tungsten inert gas" and refers to the shielding gas used during the welding process.
TIG orbital welding differs from other welding processes in that the welding torch is guided in a circular motion around the workpiece while the shielding gas and welding material are fed in. This circular motion of the welding torch produces a weld seam area that is uniform and precise.
The use of process gases can have a decisive influence on product quality, productivity and cost-effectiveness. Their physical and chemical properties open up a whole range of possible solutions for savings and improvements. Depending on the objective and material – unalloyed steel, low-alloy steel, alloyed and high-alloy materials, and non-ferrous metals – there is a wide range of welding shielding gases to choose from.
How does TIG orbital welding work?
TIG orbital welding is based on the principle of arc welding. An arc is generated between an electrode and the workpiece. Inert or quasi-inert gases (argon, helium, hydrogen) are used as process gases to protect the arc and the molten weld material from the air. This can lead to the formation of oxides and other impurities.
TIG orbital welding uses a special welding head that guides the welding torch in a circular motion around the workpiece. The welding head can be controlled automatically to produce a uniform and precise weld seam.
The welding head consists of an electrode, usually made of tungsten, and a nozzle body that directs the shielding gas onto the workpiece. The shielding gas is emitted from the nozzle in a circular pattern to protect the welding area.
The molten welding material is supplied from a separate source, which is controlled either manually or automatically. The welding material is introduced into the weld seam while the welding torch remains in circular motion.
Which shielding gas is the right one for TIG orbital welding?
TIG orbital welding requires process gases that protect the welding process from oxidation and contamination. ARCAL Prime (argon 4.8) is the most commonly used process gas due to its physical and chemical properties.
ARCAL Prime has a high density, which helps to effectively protect the welding area. Argon is also chemically inert. This means that it does not react with other materials and cause contamination.
In addition to argon, helium is also frequently used as a process gas in TIG orbital welding, especially when higher welding speeds or deeper penetration conditions are required. Helium is lighter than argon and has a higher thermal conductivity. This helps to effectively protect the welding zone.
In TIG orbital welding, it is important to choose the right process gas to ensure high weld quality and efficiency. At the same time, however, safety aspects must also be taken into account. In TIG orbital welding, argon and/or argon-containing mixed gases with helium and/or hydrogen additives are generally used.
In addition to protecting the weld pool from the atmosphere, the various shielding gases influence
- the type of material transfer,
- the formation of oxides,
- the penetration behaviour,
- the arc stability,
- edge wetting and
- smoke and pollutant development.
Different ARCAL gas mixtures are used depending on the desired result.
Low-oxide TIG orbital welding with additive hydrogen content
Improvement of penetration behaviour through higher thermal conductivity of argon-helium gas mixtures in TIG orbital welding
The use of ARCAL 33 or ARCAL 35 can significantly improve the thermal conductivity and heat content of the arc atmosphere. This creates a high-energy arc, which leads to better penetration behaviour. In addition, heat transfer in the arc is also improved. This also results in better penetration behaviour and thus a more stable welding result.
Overview of inert gases for TIG orbital welding
Air Liquide's ARCAL shielding gas range helps you to increase not only the quality of the welded joint but also the productivity of the welding process. This ensures optimal working conditions.
The following practical workshop poster provides a complete overview of Air Liquide welding shielding gases.
Training courses and practical seminars for accident-free and safe working in TIG orbital welding
Are you aware of the hazards associated with welding work? TIG orbital welding can pose hazards due to noise, smoke, electric current and possible fires. It is important to be aware of these hazards so that you can protect yourself against them.
Trained employees are the best prerequisite for safe working with gases in your company – and are also required by law.
Have you ensured that you and your employees
- have the necessary knowledge to handle gases safely in order to prevent dangerous situations?
- can prove their qualification in handling gases?
- are familiar with the most important properties of the different gases?
- meet the requirements of the Occupational Safety and Health Act and the Industrial Safety Regulation?
Air Liquide can help you with this! Benefit from the extensive know-how and experience of Air Liquide's technical gas experts. Are you interested in needs-based and practical training courses at Air Liquide's SchweisserCampus? Then use the contact form – Air Liquide's welding experts will be happy to get in touch with you.
The successful use of TIG orbital welding depends on knowledge of the properties described here. Greater cost-effectiveness can be achieved by selecting the optimum gas. Argon, helium or mixtures thereof are normally used for TIG orbital welding. The minor components of the mixed gas are small amounts of oxygen and moisture content. The diversity and universality of the ARCAL shielding gases mentioned above has led to their frequent use in TIG orbital welding applications.