GTAW Course details

Purpose: Provides welder training in Gas Tungsten Arc Welding (GTAW), delivered by a CWI, in 4-hour blocks (up to 8 hours/day) for industries like aerospace, fabrication, and piping.

Duration: Short courses (e.g., 1-4 days, ~8-32 hours) or part of welding programs.

Target Audience: Businesses or professionals seeking GTAW skills and/or certification for production welding, metal fabrication, and precision welding competencies.

Key Learning Objectives

1. Understanding GTAW:
   
   

   • Learn GTAW basics: manual process using a non-consumable tungsten electrode, shielding gas, and constant-current power supply.

   • Understand filler metals (e.g., ER70S-2) and shielding gases (e.g., 100% Argon, Argon/Helium mixes).

   • Explore applications for stainless steel, aluminum, titanium, and thin materials in clean environments.

2. Equipment and Setup:
   
   

   • Master GTAW equipment: welding machine, torch, gas regulator, foot pedal, and ground clamp.

   • Select tungsten electrodes (e.g., 2% thoriated, 1/16-inch) and adjust amperage, gas flow, and polarity (AC/DCEN) for optimal welds.

3. Welding Techniques:
   
   

   • Perform fillet/groove welds in all positions (flat, horizontal, vertical, overhead).

   • Practice torch control (10-15° angle, 1/8-inch arc length) and filler rod addition for precise bead and penetration.

4. Safety and PPE:
   
   

   • Use PPE (helmets, gloves, leather jackets, steel-toe boots, glasses) to protect against UV, sparks, and burns.

   • Manage fumes and fire hazards per safety protocols.

5. Weld Quality and Inspection:
   
   

   • Achieve welds meeting Structural Steel Code, guided by CWI expertise.

   • Address defects (tungsten inclusions, porosity, lack of fusion, oxidation).

   • Practice surface cleaning for high-quality welds.

Course Structure

• Theory: GTAW principles, equipment, electrode selection, and standards, taught by CWI.

• Hands-On: Lab-based welding with CWI feedback on technique and quality.

• Assessments: Weld tests and evaluations per criteria.

Prerequisites

• Basic welding knowledge or introductory safety training.

• Minimum age (e.g., 18) and physical ability to weld.

Outcomes

• Skills Gained: GTAW proficiency for precision welding and high-quality welds.

• Certifications: Prepares for code certification testing.

• Career Paths: Roles in aerospace, piping, or precision fabrication.

Advantages

• CWI-led training ensures industry-standard GTAW skills.

• Suits high-precision welding for exotic metals and thin materials.

Challenges Covered

• Managing fume exposure in welding environments.

• Ensuring proper gas shielding and weld cleanliness.

• Troubleshooting GTAW issues (e.g., tungsten contamination, arc wander).

Note: Contact Marc Conner for course scheduling.