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Industrial Skills31 Oct 20268 min read

Choosing Between TIG, MIG and Stick for Pressure Vessel Work

Process selection is driven by material grade, position, joint access and code requirements — not personal preference.

MTMaple Training DeskMaple Heavy Engineering

## Process Matching in Heavy Fabrication

When fabricating ASME Section VIII Div 1 pressure vessels, weld process selection directly determines radiography acceptance rates and cycle time.

- **GTAW (TIG)**: Mandatory for high-integrity root passes on pipe spools and thin alloy shells. - **SMAW (Stick)**: Unbeatable for site erection and wind-exposed outdoor tie-ins. - **GMAW/FCAW**: Delivers high deposition rates on heavy structural attachments and long longitudinal seams.

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Insights from the instructors and engineers of the Maple Heavy Engineering Training & Skill Development division.

Choosing Between TIG, MIG and Stick for Pressure Vessel Work | Maple Insights | Maple Heavy Engineering