Which welding process uses a tungsten electrode to conduct electricity and provide the heat source?

• A. MIG welding
• B. TIG welding
• C. SMAW welding
• D. GMAW welding

Answer: (B)

Tungsten Inert Gas welding uses a non-consumable tungsten electrode to conduct electricity and provide the heat source. The arc forms between the tungsten electrode and the workpiece, delivering the heat needed to melt the metal while the tungsten itself doesn’t melt into the weld. Shielding gas (usually argon or a mix) protects the weld area from contamination, and a filler rod may be added as needed for deposition. This setup differs from other common welding methods that rely on a consumable electrode (a wire in a gun for MIG/GMAW or a coated stick for SMAW), where the electrode itself becomes part of the weld.