Contents:
There are many ways to perform welding: MIG, TIG, ultrasonic, laser… Today we will use TIG as a traditional method representative and laser as a new method representative and compare to understand what is better: classic or innovations, and may one of them replace the other.
Working process
TIG
For a beginning, let’s see how each method works and affects the materials. While using TIG, we are dealing with an arc welding process: everything works thanks to the closed electrical circuits.
TIG has a tungsten electrode, which is used to heat the material up to the welding point and to make seams. This all is achieved due to the closed circuit that appears via placing a ground clamp on the workpiece.
With TIG, you can work with cast iron, stainless steel, aluminum, etc. The seams themselves are strong and of good quality. TIG welder operators train their hands for a long time to make reliable and beautiful seams.
Laser
Laser welding machines don’t work by the arc welding principle. Here all work is done via laser.
Wattsan is producing welding equipment with fiber laser technology for metalworking.
Metals melt under the emitting’s high power and merge. The main difference between TIG and laser welding here is that a laser can spot weld and affect a small area. Thanks to that, the seam ends up being accurate and small, and they’re good for precision welding applications.
Laser welding machines widen opportunities in regards to materials as well. Stainless steel or aluminum welding, which appears challenging for inexperienced TIG operators, is easier to process via laser.
Material and thickness
TIG
The majority of metals used in productions are suitable for TIG processing. However, since this type of welding has a higher heat input, some of the most gentle workpieces may be damaged or lose their good surface appearance.
On the other hand, TIG is capable of welding very thick metals.
Laser
Laser may work with the same metals list as TIG, just with more accuracy. But the maximum possible welding thickness is affected by this. This may be fixed in the near future when more powerful lasers are invented.
In summary
TIG and laser are able to process almost the same amount of materials simply for different applications:
- For more harsh welding of thick metals, it’s better to use TIG. But the process is not going to be fast.
- For spot welding of thin sheets and workpieces, it is better to take a laser with a small heat-affected area. The process will be fast.
TIG vs Laser welding machines
TIG
It’s important to talk about the equipment itself. TIG welding is more affordable than a laser machine, and it can be a great choice for the ones that are starting their way in welding art.
However, TIG requires regular maintenance and consumable spending (gas, electrodes, etc.). Also, the welding machine preparation for the welding process may take more time than for laser.
Laser
Laser welding machines are easy to maintain: they need minimal. Furthermore, Wattsan equipment design makes them additionally space-saving. For example, a chiller is placed inside the housing.
Laser welding comes in a set with an automatic wire feed system. And if the model is Wattsan 4in1 G2D or Wattsan 5in1 G2 Pro then a double wire feed can be installed.
Plus, Wattsan laser welding machines have a Ruida control system, which has a parameters library for processing the most common metals and thicknesses. It allows you to automatically set required numbers with one touch.
But as it is right now, laser equipment is quite expensive.
Laser welding machines options
Laser machines usually come not only with a welding function but also a few more, extending their application area. This multifunctional equipment saves space for their owners since there’s no need to buy other devices for cleaning and cutting.
For example, Wattsan 4in1 allows you to weld, clean, cut, and also perform seam cleaning. Wattsan 5in1 has an additional function of energy storage welding.
We have variations with one or two mirrors: the second ones provide various seam types while not only welding but also cleaning. And equipment may be with double wire feed.
Wattsan laser welding machines have Relfar guns with a control system that allows for quick beam operations of varying size and form. In addition, the gun comes with a 10-meter cable that allows you to operate comfortably from any angle.
Furthermore, machines have controls from Ruida: an intuitive interface and easy access to all of the functions.
Conclusion
- TIG vs laser welding? TIG and Laser welding machines have different applications. The first one is better for thicker workpieces, while the second one is for thin metals, when an accurate and small seam is needed.
- TIG is much slower than a laser.
- Laser has a smaller heat impact zone due to which it can work with thin or gentle metals.
- Metal can be joined by laser or TIG welding, with or without a filler wire. A laser system has the benefit of requiring less filler due to its automatic wire feed system.
