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Ray Harkins, The Manufacturing Academy and Garry Pace

Welcome to the Udemy course titled, "The Basics of Gas Tungsten Arc Welding (GMAW, TIG)" If you are new to the field of welding, this is the class you need to learn some of the over-arching concepts of welding and THE FULL RANGE OF BASICS associated with GMAW specifically.

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Welcome to the Udemy course titled, "The Basics of Gas Tungsten Arc Welding (GMAW, TIG)" If you are new to the field of welding, this is the class you need to learn some of the over-arching concepts of welding and THE FULL RANGE OF BASICS associated with GMAW specifically.

GMAW (Gas Tungsten Arc Welding) is commonly referred to as "TIG" welding, which stands for "Tungsten Insert Gas". TIG of GMAW refer to the process of using a non-consumable tungsten electrode to deliver electrical current to your work piece. Tungsten has a very high melting point relative to other metals, so it holds up well to the high temperatures of welding. GMAW also employs the use of a shielding gas like argon or helium. This gas prevents the oxygen and nitrogen found in our atmosphere from contaminated the weld pool.

TIG welding is very precise when compared with other welding processes. It deposits a low volumes of material in exactly locations. It is commonly used on metals such as aluminum and copper, or thin sections of steel sheet. And because of its versatility, TIG is often the first process new welders learn.

In the class, you will learn:

  • An Overview of GMAW

  • Advantages and Disadvantages as compared to other welding processes

  • Welding current

  • The TIG Torch and Gas Shielding System

  • Electrodes

  • Filler and Base Materials

  • Welding Terminology

  • Pre-weld Preparations

  • Primary and Secondary Welding Variables

  • Welding Defects and Discontinuities

  • And a Whole Lot More.

So if you've been looking for an place to start learning the basics of welding, THIS IS THE CLASS FOR YOU. Sign up today to gain the skills you need to advance your skills in fabrication.

Enroll now

What's inside

Learning objectives

  • The advantages and disadvantages of gtaw (aka tig welding)
  • The equipment, materials and methods used in tig welding
  • An overview of the welding-related defects - how they occur and what to do to prevent them
  • Pre-weld preparations to achieve a quality weld
  • Electrodes, gasses, filler materials and base materials
  • Primary and secondary welding variables
  • The torch and gas shielding system
  • Welding terminology

Syllabus

Introduction
Introduction to the Course
An Introduction to Your Instructor
Overview of GTAW
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Traffic lights

Read about what's good
what should give you pause
and possible dealbreakers
Provides an overview of GTAW/TIG welding, which is often the first process new welders learn due to its versatility and precision
Covers pre-weld preparations, which are essential for achieving quality welds and preventing defects, making it a practical skill for beginners
Explores welding defects and discontinuities, which helps learners identify and prevent common issues in their welding projects
Details the advantages and disadvantages of GTAW compared to other welding processes, which is important for choosing the right method for a project
Examines the welding procedure specification (WPS), which is a document that outlines the steps and parameters for a specific welding job
Focuses on the basics of GTAW/TIG welding, so learners seeking advanced techniques or specialized applications may need to supplement their learning elsewhere

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Reviews summary

Basics of gtaw/tig welding overview

According to learners, this course provides a solid foundation in the basics of Gas Tungsten Arc Welding (GTAW), commonly known as TIG welding. Many students found the explanations clear and easy to understand, making complex concepts accessible for newcomers. The instructor's knowledge and presentation style were frequently highlighted as positive aspects. Reviewers appreciated the practical focus and the detailed coverage of fundamental topics like equipment, materials, and variables. While some mentioned needing more hands-on practice which is inherent to welding, the theoretical base provided is considered highly valuable.
Content seems current and relevant.
"The information feels up-to-date and relevant to modern TIG practices."
"Content is current."
"Seems to cover standard, accepted practices."
Ideal starting point for new welders.
"Perfect course if you're just starting out with TIG welding."
"Highly recommend this for complete beginners in welding."
"This is exactly what I needed as an introduction to the subject."
"If you know nothing about TIG, this is the place to start."
Instructor is expert and explains well.
"The instructor is very knowledgeable and presents the information in an engaging way."
"Instructor clearly knows the subject inside and out."
"Really appreciated the instructor's passion and expertise."
"His experience shines through in the explanations provided."
Covers all essential TIG welding basics.
"Provides a solid foundation in all the basics you need to know about TIG welding."
"Excellent overview covering equipment, materials, variables, and defects."
"This course gives a great introduction to the theory behind GTAW."
"I feel much more confident in understanding the fundamental principles after this."
Content is easy to grasp for beginners.
"The explanations are very clear and easy to understand, even for someone brand new to welding."
"I found the concepts broken down well, making them simple to follow along with."
"Instructor explains things clearly and concisely, perfect for a beginner like myself."
"This course did a great job simplifying complex ideas."
Theory-heavy, limited hands-on guidance.
"This course is great for theory, but naturally lacks the hands-on practice welding requires."
"It covers the 'why' very well, but actual welding skill needs practice beyond this."
"Don't expect to learn how to physically weld here, it's all about the background knowledge."
"It's a strong theoretical base, but you'll need practical time elsewhere."

Activities

Be better prepared before your course. Deepen your understanding during and after it. Supplement your coursework and achieve mastery of the topics covered in The Basics of Gas Tungsten Arc Welding (GTAW/TIG) with these activities:
Review Basic Metallurgy
Refresh your understanding of basic metallurgy concepts to better grasp how different metals behave during the GTAW process.
Show steps
  • Review the properties of common metals used in welding.
  • Study the effects of heat on metal structures.
  • Understand the basics of phase diagrams.
Explore 'Modern Welding'
Gain a broader understanding of welding processes by exploring a comprehensive welding textbook.
View Modern Welding on Amazon
Show steps
  • Read the sections related to GTAW and other welding methods.
  • Compare and contrast the different welding processes.
  • Review the book's safety guidelines and best practices.
Read 'Welding: Principles and Applications'
Expand your knowledge of welding principles and applications with a comprehensive textbook.
Show steps
  • Read the chapters related to GTAW/TIG welding.
  • Take notes on key concepts and techniques.
  • Review the book's practice questions and exercises.
Four other activities
Expand to see all activities and additional details
Show all seven activities
Practice Bead Placement on Scrap Metal
Improve your hand-eye coordination and torch control by practicing bead placement on scrap metal.
Show steps
  • Set up your GTAW equipment with appropriate settings.
  • Practice laying down consistent beads on a flat piece of scrap metal.
  • Vary your travel speed and amperage to observe the effects on the weld bead.
Create a GTAW Process Diagram
Solidify your understanding of the GTAW process by creating a visual diagram that illustrates the key components and steps involved.
Show steps
  • Research and gather information about the GTAW process.
  • Create a diagram that includes the torch, electrode, shielding gas, filler metal, and workpiece.
  • Label each component and describe its function.
TIG Weld a Simple Joint
Apply your knowledge and skills by TIG welding a simple joint, such as a butt joint or a lap joint, on a small project.
Show steps
  • Select a suitable project and gather the necessary materials.
  • Prepare the materials by cleaning and deburring them.
  • Set up your GTAW equipment and weld the joint.
  • Inspect the weld for defects and make any necessary repairs.
Help other students
Reinforce your understanding of GTAW by helping other students with their questions and challenges.
Show steps
  • Participate in online forums or study groups.
  • Answer questions and provide guidance to other students.
  • Share your own experiences and insights.

Career center

Learners who complete The Basics of Gas Tungsten Arc Welding (GTAW/TIG) will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:
Welder
A Welder fabricates and joins metal parts using various welding techniques. This career often requires specialized knowledge in different welding processes. This course on Gas Tungsten Arc Welding (GTAW/TIG) provides a strong foundation in the TIG welding process, which is known for its precision and is commonly used on materials like aluminum, copper, and thin steel sheets. The course covers equipment, materials, methods, pre-weld preparations, and variables specific to GTAW, directly enhancing a Welder's skill set. Learning about defects and discontinuities in this course can help any Welder avoid errors and improve their work.
Fabricator
A Fabricator constructs metal products by cutting, shaping, and assembling components, often using welding techniques. This course in Gas Tungsten Arc Welding (GTAW, TIG) helps develop the TIG welding skills crucial for many fabrication projects, especially those requiring high precision. This course provides a broad overview of GTAW including equipment, materials, and relevant welding terminology that is helpful for any Fabricator. The course's coverage of welding defects and discontinuities can help a Fabricator produce higher-quality work with fewer errors.
Metal Artist
A Metal Artist creates sculptures and other artistic pieces using metal, often requiring welding skills. This course on Gas Tungsten Arc Welding (GTAW/TIG) provides a sound foundation in TIG welding, which is ideal for creating intricate metal art due to its precision. The course covers the equipment, materials, and techniques needed to execute TIG welds, along with insight on avoiding defects. Anyone can use this information to produce high-quality metal artwork.
Welding Inspector
A Welding Inspector examines welds to ensure they meet codes and specifications. This course on Gas Tungsten Arc Welding (GTAW/TIG) provides a thorough grounding in the TIG welding process, making it a valuable asset for a Welding Inspector. The course provides an overview of welding-related defects, how they occur, and how to prevent them. This course will help a Welding Inspector better identify potential issues and assess the quality of TIG welds.
Aerospace Technician
An Aerospace Technician is responsible for the maintenance, repair, and inspection of aircraft and spacecraft. Welding plays a crucial role in aerospace manufacturing and repair, particularly TIG welding due to its precision. This course provides a comprehensive introduction to Gas Tungsten Arc Welding (GTAW/TIG), covering essential aspects such as equipment, materials, and techniques. Understanding welding terminology, pre-weld preparations, and the effects of primary and secondary welding variables as presented in this course could lead to an improved understanding of aerospace welding processes.
Pipe Fitter
A Pipe Fitter installs and maintains piping systems, often using welding to join pipes. This course on Gas Tungsten Arc Welding (GTAW/TIG) may be useful as TIG welding is a common method for joining pipes, especially when high-quality welds are required. The course's coverage of welding current, gas shielding, and filler materials can help a Pipe Fitter understand how to achieve strong and leak-proof welds. This course covers the welding procedure specification.
Robotics Technician
A Robotics Technician installs, maintains, and repairs robotic systems, some of which utilize welding in manufacturing processes. This course on Gas Tungsten Arc Welding (GTAW/TIG) may be useful as welding is often automated in robotics manufacturing. The course introduces the TIG welding process, its advantages, and its disadvantages, offering valuable insight into when and where to use this method in automated systems. The course material on welding defects and discontinuities may also be relevant for a Robotics Technician troubleshooting automated welding processes.
Manufacturing Engineer
A Manufacturing Engineer designs and optimizes manufacturing processes, including those involving welding. This course concerning Gas Tungsten Arc Welding (GTAW/TIG) may be useful because it provides a detailed overview of the TIG welding process. A Manufacturing Engineer can use this information to better understand the capabilities and limitations of TIG welding when designing manufacturing processes. The course's coverage of welding variables and defects may further aid in optimizing welding processes for efficiency and quality.
Maintenance Technician
A Maintenance Technician maintains and repairs machinery and equipment, sometimes requiring welding for repairs. This course on Gas Tungsten Arc Welding (GTAW/TIG) may be useful because it introduces the TIG welding process, which can be used to repair a variety of metal components. The course can provide the Maintenance Technician with the knowledge to handle different welding scenarios and achieve durable repairs.
Quality Control Inspector
A Quality Control Inspector examines products and materials to ensure they meet quality standards, which may include inspecting welds. This course on Gas Tungsten Arc Welding (GTAW/TIG) may be useful because it can help to familiarize a Quality Control Inspector with the characteristics of TIG welds and potential defects. With the help of this course, it may become easier to identify common welding flaws and assess the overall quality of welded products. The course covers welding defects and discontinuities and what causes them.
Automotive Technician
An Automotive Technician repairs and maintains vehicles, sometimes requiring welding for exhaust systems or chassis repair. This course on Gas Tungsten Arc Welding (GTAW/TIG) may be useful because it introduces the fundamentals of TIG welding. TIG welding is particularly useful for welding thin sections of steel sheet commonly found in automotive applications. Understanding the principles and techniques outlined in the course can assist an Automotive Technician in performing precise and durable repairs.
Structural Steelworker
A Structural Steelworker erects and connects steel frameworks for buildings and other structures, often using welding. This course on Gas Tungsten Arc Welding (GTAW/TIG) may be useful as it provides a strong background in welding processes. While other welding methods may be preferred for larger structural welds, TIG welding is sometimes used for specialized applications. Information supplied on weldable materials may prove useful to a Structural Steelworker.
Boilermaker
A Boilermaker constructs, installs, and repairs boilers and other large vessels, often using welding. This course on Gas Tungsten Arc Welding (GTAW/TIG) may be useful as it provides an understanding of TIG welding, which can be used for specialized repairs or applications requiring high-quality welds. The course can provide valuable insight into welding terminology, pre-weld preparations, and welding variables.
Jeweler
A Jeweler designs, creates, and repairs jewelry, often using precision welding techniques. This course on Gas Tungsten Arc Welding (GTAW/TIG) may be useful because it provides a sound foundation in the TIG welding process, which can be applied to jewelry making. This course covers the equipment, materials, and techniques associated with TIG welding and may lead to an improved ability to create delicate and intricate jewelry pieces.
Mechanical Engineer
A Mechanical Engineer designs and develops mechanical systems, including those involving welded components. This course on Gas Tungsten Arc Welding (GTAW/TIG) may be useful as it provides a general overview of the TIG welding process. A Mechanical Engineer can use this information to better understand the capabilities and limitations of TIG welding when designing mechanical systems. Coverage of welding terminology may also prove helpful to a Mechanical Engineer.

Reading list

We've selected two books that we think will supplement your learning. Use these to develop background knowledge, enrich your coursework, and gain a deeper understanding of the topics covered in The Basics of Gas Tungsten Arc Welding (GTAW/TIG).
Comprehensive guide to welding, covering various processes including GTAW. It provides detailed explanations of welding principles, equipment, and techniques. It is commonly used as a textbook in welding programs. This book offers a broader and deeper understanding of welding concepts than the course alone.
Provides a broad overview of various welding processes, including GTAW. It covers the principles, equipment, and techniques involved in each process. It useful reference for understanding the context of GTAW within the broader field of welding. This book is more valuable as additional reading to provide context.

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