What consumables do you need to TIG weld?

TIG welding consumables can spark debate, some parts burn out, others just break, and knowing what wears, what fails, and what’s worth stocking can save you serious downtime.

Here's what we consider to be regular and occasional materials and parts for any TIG welder.

Regular Consumables

These are items that generally see use or wear and tear every time you use your TIG. How often you need to replace these depends entirely on how often you weld.

Tungsten Electrodes – Types include 2% lanthanated (blue), ceriated (gray), thoriated (red), and pure tungsten. Sizes commonly range from 1/16" to 1/8".

Filler Rods – Selected based on base material:

- ER70S-2 or ER70S-6 for carbon steels

- 308L for 304 Stainless

- 316L for 316 Stainless

- 4043 or 5356 for aluminium alloys

- Grade 2 ErTi-2, Grade 3 ErTi-3, Ti6Al4V/Grade 5 ErTi-5 for titanium

Shielding Gas – Typically pure argon; argon-helium mixtures are used for specific applications.

Weld Cleaning Supplies – Such as wire brushes and chemical cleaners for post-weld finishing.

Collets & Collet Bodies – Secure the tungsten electrode within the torch noting the collets are something you will replace more often (according to use) than the collet bodies themselves.

Occasional Consumables

These are things that generally wear out a lot slower over time, or are commonly damaged items (if you haven't dropped your torch on the floor yet, tust us, you or one of your friends will at some stage!).

Welding PPE – Includes gloves, helmets, jackets, and safety glasses.

Gas Lenses – Enhance shielding gas coverage, improving weld quality. What size lens should you use?

Ceramic or Pyrex Cups – Direct the shielding gas to the weld area and commonly knocked off the welding table.

O-Rings & Insulators – Ensure proper sealing and electrical insulation within the torch.

Back Caps – Seal the rear of the torch and hold the tungsten in place.

Tungsten Grinders – For sharpening tungsten electrodes to the desired point.

Foot Pedals & Switches – Control welding current during operation.

Power Cables & Adapters – Connect the torch to the power source.

Gas Hoses & Flow Meters – Regulate and deliver shielding gas to the torch.

Purge Plugs - Used for back purging. What is back purging?