TIG is an acronym for tungsten inert gas welding, and it differs from other forms of welding in that it makes use of an arc which is created from tungsten, and which uses an electrical current to generate heat for the welding process. TIG welding is one of the best techniques for welding and manipulating aluminum, though the downside of TIG welding is it incredibly high cost, it is very expensive, and most likely to be out of the price range of most amateurs and hobbyists, with even a modest, low specs welding kit priced at $1200. The price tag does carry with it a number of major benefits in comparison to other forms of welding. One of the major advantages to a TIG welder is higher amperage which allows for greater thickness of metal to be welded, amongst other advantages relating to the purity of the metal, cleaning etc. The high price is not the only major obstacle people have to overcome in regards to successfully learning to use the TIG welding, TIG welding has a extremely steep learning curve, and it is a difficult skill to master. With such a high initial cost, and so little room for failure, it really takes a special kind to truly succeed with TIG welding. Succeeding at TIG welding also requires a real focus in attention as most welding methods allow the welder to get away with simply using one hand, not so with TIG welding. Another drawback of TIG welders is that you cannot simply use your gas tank and other kit from your MIG welder with your TIG welder, the TIG welder is equipment specific. TIG welders make use of inert gases such as argon so as better protect the welding area. This really should be a well-drilled into your head already, but safety must be paramount at all times, TIG welding is still fraught with all of the dangers associated with welding, and so proper precautions have to be taken. Due to the intense levels of light that are created during the welding process, this poses a very real danger to the welder of developing so called "arc-eye", a burning of the retina which will lead to permanent blindness. Even limited exposure to the light can in time have a lasting effect, so a face guard to shield the eyes from direct exposure is crucial. The light also carries another great danger UV radiation, this is known to cause skin cancer, and so no part of the body should be directly exposed during the welding process. Due to both its specialized nature, steep learning curve, and relative low cost maintenance, TIG is commonly used and employed within the automobile and space craft industries respectively, and TIG welding also has the great advantage that the finished materials and alloys created are highly resistant to corrosion and cracking even over a prolonged period of time.
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