TIG Welders

About TIG Welders

TIG welding, or Tungsten Inert Gas welding, represents the pinnacle of precision welding for professionals and serious DIY enthusiasts. TIG welders use a non-consumable tungsten electrode to produce exceptionally clean, high-quality welds with superior control, making them ideal for applications requiring aesthetic finishes and structural integrity on mild steel, stainless steel, and aluminium. Modern inverter TIG welders available at MyToolShed.co.uk are lighter and more energy-efficient than traditional transformer-based units, with many offering multi-process capabilities that combine TIG, MIG, and MMA welding in a single machine.

Whether you need a DC-only TIG welder for steel and stainless steel or an AC/DC model with high-frequency start for aluminium work, MyToolShed stocks professional-grade equipment from trusted brands including Draper and Sealey. Most models operate on standard 240v UK mains supply, making them suitable for both professional workshops and well-equipped home garages. Output options range from 145A units for light fabrication to 200A+ machines for demanding professional applications.

Applications

TIG welders serve a diverse range of professionals and skilled tradespeople:

• Fabricators and metal artists creating bespoke railings, gates, furniture, and architectural metalwork
• Motorsport engineers building race car chassis, roll cages, and exhaust systems
• Pipe welders joining stainless steel and specialist alloy pipework in food processing and pharmaceutical industries
• Bicycle frame builders crafting custom frames from chromoly and stainless steel tubing
• Maintenance engineers repairing industrial machinery and specialist tooling
• Classic vehicle restorers working with thin-gauge panels and aluminium trim
• HVAC engineers joining copper, stainless steel, and aluminium ducting
• Aerospace technicians working with specialist alloys requiring certified weld quality

Choosing The Right TIG Welders

Amperage Output: Consider the maximum material thickness you'll weld regularly. A 145-150A machine suits mild steel up to 4-5mm thickness, ideal for DIY and light trade use. Professional fabricators should opt for 200A+ models which provide improved duty cycles and capacity for thicker materials.

AC/DC Capability: DC-only TIG welders handle mild steel and stainless steel at lower cost. If you need to weld aluminium, an AC/DC machine with high-frequency start is essential. The AC current provides the cleaning action required to break through aluminium's oxide layer.

Multi-Process Functionality: Many inverter welders at MyToolShed.co.uk combine TIG, MIG, and MMA capabilities, offering exceptional versatility for workshops where space and budget are considerations. These units are particularly valuable for tradespeople tackling varied welding applications.

Duty Cycle: Professional users should prioritise machines with duty cycles of 60% or higher at typical working amperages, ensuring continuous productivity without cooling interruptions. Entry-level machines may have lower duty cycles suitable for intermittent DIY use.

Power Requirements: Most domestic TIG welders operate on standard 240v 13A UK supply, though higher-specification machines may require 16A or 32A industrial connections. Verify your available electrical supply before purchase.

Safety Information

TIG welding requires appropriate personal protective equipment including an auto-darkening welding helmet with minimum shade 9-13 protection, TIG-specific gloves offering dexterity, and flame-resistant clothing covering all exposed skin. Ensure adequate ventilation or fume extraction, particularly when welding stainless steel or coated materials.

TIG welders must be installed according to BS 7671 wiring regulations with proper earthing and RCD protection. Never operate in damp conditions. High-frequency start equipment may cause electromagnetic interference with pacemakers and electronic devices. Secure gas cylinders upright and store away from heat sources. Maintain a clear workspace free from flammable materials with appropriate fire extinguishers readily accessible.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I run a TIG welder from a standard domestic socket?

Most entry-level and mid-range TIG welders up to 200A operate from standard UK 240v 13A supply. However, you may not achieve maximum rated output without tripping the breaker. For sustained use at higher amperages, a dedicated 16A or 32A supply may be necessary.

What's the difference between scratch start and high-frequency start?

Scratch start requires touching the tungsten electrode to the workpiece to initiate the arc, which can cause contamination. High-frequency start uses a high-voltage spark to start the arc without contact, preventing contamination and extending electrode life. HF start is essential for AC aluminium welding.

Do I need AC/DC or is DC-only sufficient?

DC-only TIG welders handle mild steel and stainless steel perfectly well at lower cost. However, if you need to weld aluminium or magnesium alloys, AC capability is essential as these metals require the cleaning action of AC current to break through their oxide layer.