TIG Electrodes

A TIG electrode is the non-consumable rod that creates the arc in TIG welding. ARCCAPTAIN offers several types, like pure tungsten and lanthanated electrodes, which are made to handle high heat and work on various metals—including magnesium and titanium. Each type is designed for specific materials and offers a mix of long life and precise control.

Engineered for superior arc stability and high-current capacity, ARCCAPTAIN TIG electrodes deliver flawless welds on aluminum, titanium, magnesium, and specialty alloys.

Our premium tungsten electrodes—including 2% lanthanated and pure tungsten options—ensure reliable starts, exceptional durability, and consistent results across AC/DC welding applications.

Compatible with all major machines and power sources, they’re the professional’s choice for clean, precise, and strong welds every time.

Upgrade your setup with the latest tools from our TIG welding equipment collection, designed for precision and durability.

The Importance of Pure Tungsten Electrodes

TIG electrodes conduct the current that creates a stable, high-temperature arc without melting—essential for clean, strong welds on aluminum, titanium, nickel, and more.

The right electrode ensures reliable arc starts, smooth performance, and superior results on both AC and DC power, making it a critical choice for aerospace, automotive, and professional welding applications.

Explore our combo welding machines to tackle multiple welding processes with one versatile machine, maximizing efficiency.

Key Features of ARCCAPTAIN TIG Electrodes

• Premium Tungsten Composition: ARCCAPTAIN TIG electrodes are made from high-grade tungsten and tungsten alloys, offering superior weld heat resistance and arc stability.
  
  
• High Current Carrying Capacity: These electrodes are engineered to carry high currents, making them ideal for DC welding and challenging applications involving thick metals and alloys.
  
  
• Color-Coded for Easy Identification: The electrodes are color-coded to help welders quickly identify the right tungsten type, whether they need pure tungsten, lanthanated electrodes, or thoriated options.
  
  
• Durable and Versatile: With consistent arc starts and long-lasting performance, these electrodes work across various applications, from welding aluminum to nickel and titanium alloys.
  
  
• Optimized for AC and DC Welding: ARCCAPTAIN tungsten electrodes perform well in both AC and DC welders, providing stable arcs on aluminum alloys in AC mode and producing strong welds on nickel and titanium alloys in DC mode.
  

Find the perfect torch for your projects in our TIG welding torch collection, offering high-quality options for every job.

Frequently Asked Questions on TIG Electrodes

What welding electrodes are used in TIG welding?

TIG welding typically uses tungsten electrodes due to their ability to withstand high heat and provide stable arc starts. There are different types of tungsten electrodes used in welders, including pure tungsten, thoriated, ceriated, and lanthanated electrodes.

Each type offers specific benefits depending on the material being welded and the type of welding (AC or DC). Pure tungsten is commonly used for AC welding, while thoriated and lanthanated electrodes are preferred for DC welding with materials like steel and nickel alloys.

What color TIG welding electrode for mild steel?

For TIG welding mild steel, a red-colored 2% thoriated tungsten electrode is commonly used. This electrode provides excellent arc stability and is ideal for DC welding. Another option is the grey-colored 2% lanthanated tungsten electrode, which is also suitable for mild steel and offers similar arc stability with a longer lifespan.

How do I know what TIG rod to use?

The choice of TIG rod depends on the base metal you are welding. For steel, an ER70S-2 filler rod is often used, while for stainless steel, an ER308L rod is preferred. When welding aluminum, a 4043 or 5356 TIG rod is typically recommended.

You can select the right TIG rod by matching the composition of the rod with the base metal and considering factors like the thickness of the material and the welding process.

What kind of rod do you use for TIG welding?

The kind of rod used for TIG welding depends on the material you’re working with. For steel, you’d use an ER70S-2 or ER70S-6 filler rod. For aluminum, the 4043 and 5356 rods are common.

Stainless steel requires an ER308L rod, while nickel alloys often need a special nickel-based rod. Always ensure that the TIG welding rod is compatible with the base metal and provides good weld quality.

What are the different colors of tungsten for?

The colors indicate the tungsten alloy type, which determines its best use. For example, red tips (2% thorium) are common for DC steel, gray (2% ceriated) are versatile all-purpose electrodes, and blue (2% lanthanated) are popular modern choices that work well on both AC and DC.

What is the rule of 33 in TIG welding?

A rule of thumb for gas flow settings. It suggests setting your argon shielding gas flow rate to 33 cubic feet per hour (CFH) as a reliable starting point for most TIG welding applications, though fine-tuning may be needed for specific setups.