Tungsten Arc Gas Shielded Welding (TAGS)

Question 1

What is TAGS welding also known as?

Answer 1

Also Known as Tungsten Inert Gas Welding (TIG)

Question 2

What is the electrode in this process? What is it referred to as?

Answer 2

the electrode is made from tungsten and is referred to as a non-consumable electrode.

Question 3

What does the TAGS process not consume?

Answer 3

It doesn’t consume the electrode

Question 4

What prevents oxidisation of the weld?

Answer 4

Argon or helium (TIG) or a mixture of gases (TAGS) prevent oxidisation of the weld

Question 5

What does the arc between the electrode and the work do?

Answer 5

The arc between the electrode and work melts the joint and fuses the parts together.

Question 6

How is filler metal added if needed?

Answer 6

It is fed into the weld pool by hand

Question 7

How is TAGS welding different to others? Explain

Answer 7

TAGS welding is different in that two separate currents flow in the circuit, a high frequency current to start the arc without having to touch off the work and a normal current to maintain the arc.

Question 8

What power source does TAGS welding normally use?

What is an exception to this?

Answer 8

TAGS welding normally uses a D.C. power source, however, when welding aluminium, an A.C. power source is used.

Question 9

What does an earth clamp do?

Answer 9

The earth clamp is a tool that, via the earth cable, ensures the electrical circuit is closed between the welding power source and the piece to be welded.

Question 10

Explain the process of TAGS welding (5)

Answer 10

1. A gun with a non-consumable tungsten electrode is held by the operator.
2. A separate wire filler rod is used if required.
3. The gun issues gas over the weld area to prevent it oxidising.
4. TIG welding issues an inert gas such as argon.
5. TAGS welding issues a mixture of gases e.g. argon and carbon dioxide

Question 11

Name 3 applications of TAGS welding

Answer 11

1. Used where high precision is required.
2. Thin sections of alloy steel, stainless steel, aluminium, copper.
3. Aluminium is difficult to weld with other methods as it oxidizes very quickly

Question 12

Pros and cons of TAGS/TIG welding

Answer 12

Pros: highest quality weld, lots of control over temp and filling rate.
Very clean welds with no slag.
Precise control over temperature making it suitable for aluminium.

Cons: Slower than MIG welding, difficult to learn, not suitable in windy conditions

Question 13

What must be labelled on a diagram for TAGS welding?

Answer 13

Label gas supply, filler rod, torch, power source,