TIG Welding Electrode
- Non-consumable tungsten electrode for TIG/GTAW welding
- Highest melting point among all metals — 3,422°C for extreme arc stability
- Multiple types available: WP (green), WT20 (red), WL20 (blue), WC20 (grey), WZ8 (white)
- Low electron work function for easy arc starting and stable performance
- Diameter range: 0.5–10.0mm, length: 50–600mm
- Compliant with AWS A5.12 and ISO 6848
- Non-radioactive alternatives available (WL20, WC20)
Description Of TIG Welding Electrode
TIG Welding Electrode is a non-consumable rod-shaped electrode used in tungsten inert gas (TIG) welding and plasma arc welding processes. It conducts the welding current into the arc, initiates the welding process, stabilizes the arc, and locally melts the base material. Unlike consumable electrodes, the tungsten electrode does not melt into the weld pool, making it essential for achieving clean, high-quality welds.
Tungsten is the material of choice for these electrodes due to its exceptional physical properties. With a melting point of approximately 3,422°C (6,191°F) — the highest among all metals — tungsten electrodes can withstand the extreme temperatures of the welding arc without melting or deforming. The material also offers high density (19.3 g/cm³), excellent electrical and thermal conductivity, and outstanding resistance to arc erosion.
To enhance welding performance, various rare earth oxides are added to the tungsten matrix — including cerium oxide (CeO₂), lanthanum oxide (La₂O₃), thorium oxide (ThO₂), and zirconium oxide (ZrO₂). These additives lower the electron work function of the electrode, improving arc starting characteristics, increasing current-carrying capacity, and extending service life.
TIG welding electrodes are produced from high-purity tungsten rods through rotary forging, annealing, and precision grinding processes. Each electrode type is identified by a distinct color code at the tip, making it easy to distinguish between different compositions in the workshop. The electrodes are manufactured in compliance with AWS A5.12 and ISO 6848 international standards.
Features Of TIG Welding Electrode
Highest Melting Point: With a melting point of approximately 3,422°C — the highest among all metals — TIG welding electrodes can withstand extreme arc temperatures without melting or deformation.
Excellent Electrical and Thermal Conductivity: Tungsten electrodes provide efficient current transfer and heat dissipation, ensuring stable arc performance and reducing thermal stress on the electrode.
Low Electron Work Function: The addition of rare earth oxides (CeO₂, La₂O₃, ThO₂, ZrO₂) lowers the electron work function, improving arc starting characteristics and reducing the required ignition voltage.
High Density and Mechanical Strength: With a density of 19.3 g/cm³ and high tensile strength, tungsten electrodes resist deformation and wear during high-current welding operations.
Low Arc Erosion Rate: Tungsten electrodes offer excellent resistance to arc erosion, ensuring long service life and maintaining tip geometry over extended use.
Corrosion Resistance: Tungsten exhibits excellent resistance to most acids, bases, and molten metals.
Color-Coded Identification: Each electrode type features a distinct tip color for easy identification — WP (green), WT20 (red), WL20 (blue), WC20 (grey), WZ8 (white) — in compliance with international standards.
Wide Range of Sizes: Available in diameters from 0.5mm to 10.0mm and lengths from 50mm to 600mm.
Multiple Non-Radioactive Alternatives: Lanthanum tungsten (WL20) and cerium tungsten (WC20) offer non-radioactive alternatives to thorium tungsten (WT20) for safety-critical applications.
Standard Compliance: Manufactured in accordance with AWS A5.12 and ISO 6848.
Specifications Of TIG Welding Electrode