9. Conclusion

Gas-shielded arc welding with refractory electrode (TIG) is a widely-used process, thanks to the high quality of the welds produced when the arc rules are followed. On the other hand, the productivity associated with this process is low: low welding speed and low deposition rate compared with other arc welding processes. However, the process is easily automated, and there are derivatives of the process which compensate for the lack of productivity with excellent welded joint quality.

The TIG process remains the benchmark when quality is required. It is therefore widely used in the aerospace, nuclear, oil & gas and chemical industries.