Argon & TIG Welding Rod

TIG Rods and Tungsten
In TIG welding, there’s a lot going on. You have a shielding gas, usually argon, running through the torch. You have an electrode that’s made of tungsten, which is an extremely hard steel that stands up to high heat. But depending on the weld metal, the electrode needs a special alloy ingredient added so it can provide a stable arc and uncontaminated weld.

Finally, you’ll often be welding with filler rod in your other hand. That makes three consumables that get used up and replaced periodically.

Tungsten Electrodes
Technically, the tungsten used in welding is not viewed as a consumable, since it’s not meant to serve as filler rod. A seasoned welder can make a tungsten electrode last a long time. A newbie, on the either hand, may go through one seven-inch tungsten every week. The electrodes are packed in various quantities (10 packs are the most popular). They come in seven or three inch lengths, which correspond to the two standard tips are available with TIG torches. The electrodes come in a range of diameters similar to stick welding.