The 4 Main Types of Welding Explained: MIG, TIG, Stick and Flux-Cored

When it comes to welding, choosing the right process is essential for ensuring the strength, appearance, and efficiency of your weld. Whether you're just getting started in the industry or looking to expand your knowledge, understanding the differences between the main types of welding is crucial.

In this article, we’ll explore the four primary types of welding: MIG, TIG, Stick, and Flux-Cored. We’ll break down how each works, their pros and cons, and the best applications for each process.

MIG Welding (Gas Metal Arc Welding – GMAW)

How it works:
MIG welding uses a continuously fed wire electrode and shielding gas to create a weld pool. The wire melts and joins the base materials together.

Best for:

• Mild and stainless steel
• Aluminium
• Sheet metal and automotive work

Pros:
 ✅ Easy to learn
 ✅ High productivity
 ✅ Cleaner process compared to stick

Cons:
 ❌ Requires shielding gas
 ❌ Less effective outdoors due to wind

TIG Welding (Gas Tungsten Arc Welding – GTAW)

How it works:
TIG welding uses a non-consumable tungsten electrode and a separate filler rod. An inert gas (usually argon) protects the weld area from contamination.

Best for:

• Stainless steel
• Aluminium
• Thin metals and clean, cosmetic welds

Pros:
 ✅ Precise and clean welds
 ✅ No spatter
 ✅ Excellent control

Cons:
 ❌ Slower process
 ❌ Requires high skill level
 ❌ Not ideal for thicker materials

Stick Welding (Shielded Metal Arc Welding – SMAW)

How it works:
Stick welding uses a consumable electrode coated in flux. When melted, the flux creates a shielding gas to protect the weld from contaminants.

Best for:

• Outdoor work
• Construction and repair
• Rusty or dirty metals

Pros:
 ✅ Works well in harsh conditions
 ✅ Inexpensive equipment
 ✅ No need for external gas

Cons:
 ❌ More cleanup due to slag
 ❌ Harder to learn for beginners
 ❌ Less precise than MIG or TIG

Flux-Cored Arc Welding (FCAW)

How it works:
Flux-cored welding is similar to MIG, but the wire has a flux core. This creates its own shielding gas as it burns, allowing for outdoor use.

Best for:

• Structural work
• Thick materials
• Outdoor fabrication

Pros:
 ✅ Suitable for windy environments
 ✅ High deposition rate
 ✅ Ideal for thicker metals

Cons:
 ❌ Produces slag
 ❌ Can be messy without good technique

Each welding process has its own strengths and weaknesses. The right choice depends on your project, environment, material type, and skill level.

At Welding Superstore, we supply equipment for MIG, TIG, Stick, and Flux-Cored welding, along with expert advice to help you find the right tools for the job.

If you’re looking to learn more or upgrade your setup, get in touch with our team today.