Tungsten Inert Gas Welding or TIG, refers to a specialized welding technique that welders use to precisely join metals. This technique requires the welder to use tungsten electrodes which offer the precision needed for the job. One important tool used for this welding technique is the tungsten grinder.
This is the tool we’ll be focusing on in this read. In this post, we’ll discuss how you can choose the best tungsten grinder for your welding needs.
But first, we will discuss what this tool is in the first place as well as the different types available as we believe that knowing these is essential to the topic at hand. After reading this article, you’ll be armed with the needed knowledge to pick the best grinder for you.
What are Tungsten Grinders?
Tungsten grinders are specialized tools used by TIG welders to grind tungsten electrodes into perfect shapes. To achieve the perfect shapes, the electrode tips have to be as precise as possible. This is why you have to give special consideration to your needs when choosing this tool.
Most professional welders have different grinders for the various needs they have when working. However, if you are not a professional, you may not need to get multiple grinders. You can simply get one that will suit the purpose you need it for. This is why we will discuss some of the different types of this tool below.
Tungsten Grinder Types
There are different types of this tool. The type you use will typically depend on what you need it for. Below, we will discuss some types to help you figure out which would better suit your needs.
Pedestal Grinders
This is also called a grinding wheel or bench grinder. Grinding wheels are not specifically meant to sharpen tungsten electrodes. However, they can still be used for the task. If you don’t want to spend money on more specialized and costly alternatives, then this can be an economic option for you.
There is, however, a clause to use a grinding wheel for TIG welding. If you opt for this equipment for your TIG needs, you can’t use it for anything else. If you use the wheel for other materials, you’ll end up contaminating it and this would negatively impact the electrode’s performance.
Handheld
As you can guess by the name, these tools are held when being used. Unlike the grinding wheel, this is specifically made for TIG welding and comes in different brands and designs. The functions also differ across brands and models. So, you’ll have to look for the brand and model that appeals most to you.
Cordless
These are also handheld grinders with one major difference; they are cordless. They are battery-powered and offer better portability allowing you to use them easily without getting frustrated by wires. If you think a wired handheld grinder will be problematic for you, then you can opt for this.
Industrial Grinders
These are industrial grinding machines. They typically have a higher capacity than all the options discussed so far. If you are not a professional welder, you may not need this grinder.
This is because it is an industrial machinery used to carry out heavy-duty projects and tasks. You can learn what industrial machineries are. If you get this, chances are you may never need the capacity it offers. However, if you aren’t on a budget, do not mind splurging, and have several TIG welding projects, you can buy this machinery for your welding needs.
What to Consider When Choosing Your Tungsten Grinder
For you to get the perfect tungsten grinder for your TIG welding, you have to be as deliberate and meticulous as possible. You need to consider your needs and know what to look for in the tool. To help your decision-making, below are some of the things to consider as you make your choice.
Durability
One major thing to consider is the durability of the equipment. Find out the number of grinds the wheel can deliver before you’ll need to replace it. When you buy a durable grinder, you’ll save yourself the stress of replacing it soon and help keep your money in your pocket.
Efficiency
The whole deal of this tool is to make precise points on the electrodes. So, when considering one, be sure it is as efficient as possible. Look at the groves it makes on electrodes; are they lengthwise or circular?
Circular groves will disturb the electrode flow and affect your performance. Lengthwise grooves on the other ensure a smooth flow that will aid precision.
Also, consider the smoothness of the electrode’s surface after grinding; the smoother it is, the better. Check out the measurement features it offers too. Remember that TIG welding is all about precision and if you want a precise job, you need proper measurement. This way, marking the electrode just to get your measurement won’t be necessary.
Usability
Next, check the tool’s usability; you want a tool that you’ll use easily without getting worked up. Usability sometimes depends on individual preferences.
For instance, you may not mind using a wired handheld grinder, but another person sees it as hard to use and would rather opt for the cordless model. Your expertise may also influence usability; therefore, you just have to find the tool that you find easy to use.
Grinding Wheel
Tungsten is quite hard, so TIG welding requires to be done by something harder. As one of the hardest materials on earth, diamond fits this requirement to a T. You can learn more about the hardness of diamonds. So, when choosing a grinder, look for one with a diamond grinding wheel to get the best out of the tool.
Budget
Despite all we have discussed so far, you can only buy what you can afford. The good thing is, there are several options that you’ll likely find a grinder that has great features yet fits your budget. You just have to be patient with your search to find the equipment that will fit your needs and your pockets.
Conclusion
TIG welding is often performed by professionals, but you can still carry out this technique for your DIY projects. To do so, you’ll need a tungsten grinder that will be best for your needs.
In this article, we have discussed the various kinds of tungsten grinders. We have also discussed factors that you need to consider to get the perfect one for you.