TIG setup for stainless: dialed-in parameters, repeatable results

Stainless that warps, sugars, or blues isn’t a “skill” problem—it’s a setup problem. TIG Welding Secrets gives you a precise, shop-proven TIG setup for stainless: DCEN parameters, tungsten type and grind, gas lens and cup selection, argon flow and post‑flow, baseline pulse, torch angle and arc length, filler choice (ER308L/316L/309L), joint prep, cleaning, and purge control. Expect tight arc stability, cooler puddles, and clean toes—on sheet, tube, and plate.

Authored by working leads building sanitary and aerospace stainless every week, this guide distills thousands of joints into clear checklists and thickness-based charts. Reduce rework and heat tint, maintain corrosion resistance, and produce inspection-ready beads without guesswork. Includes back‑purge setups for tubing and proven fit‑up practices that keep heat input low and penetration consistent.

• Baselines: 2% lanthanated 1/16–3/32 in, #8–12 gas lens, 15–25 cfh 100% Ar, DCEN, post‑flow ≈1 s per 10 A.
• Pulse start points: 1–2 pps, 25–35% background, 30–40% on‑time for thin stainless control.
• Filler map and prep: 304/316 → ER308L/316L; dissimilar → ER309L; acetone clean + dedicated stainless brush.