What Is MIG, TIG and Arc Welding? A Simple Guide for Brisbane Projects
If you’re trying to understand the difference between MIG, TIG and Arc Welding, here’s the quick version: MIG Welding is fast and strong, TIG Welding is clean and precise, and Arc Welding is tough and reliable outdoors. Each welding method suits a different job, metal type, and level of detail. At SQ Mobile Welding, we use all three methods across Brisbane for structural work, repairs, fabrication, and commercial projects — but the right choice depends on what you’re building or fixing.
This guide breaks down exactly what MIG, TIG and Arc Welding are, how they work, what they’re used for, and how to choose the best method for your job. You’ll also see why MIG Welding is often the go-to option for speed, strength, and versatility.
What Is MIG Welding?
MIG Welding (Metal Inert Gas Welding) is one of the most common welding methods because it’s efficient, strong, and works across a wide range of applications. It uses a continuously fed wire to create the weld, making it easy to use on-site and ideal for fabrication or repair work.
How Does MIG Welding Work?
MIG Welding uses:
- A wire electrode
- Shielding gas (usually argon-based)
- A welding gun that combines both
The wire melts into the joint to form a strong bond.
When Is MIG Welding Used?
It’s best for:
- Structural steel
- Stainless steel
- Aluminium
- Frames and metal structures
- General fabrication
- Trailers and vehicle components
- Gates, fences, and metal frames
Why MIG Welding Matters for Brisbane Jobs
Brisbane conditions — heat, humidity, and outdoor work — demand welding that’s reliable and clean. MIG Welding is ideal because it handles thicker metals, speeds up fabrication, and allows strong welds without slowing down productivity.
SQ Mobile Welding performs MIG Welding daily for industrial, commercial, and residential jobs across Brisbane. We bring the equipment on-site, complete the welds cleanly, and leave you with strong, durable results.
What Is TIG Welding?
TIG Welding (Tungsten Inert Gas) is the method used when appearance, precision, and quality matter most. TIG uses a tungsten electrode and separate filler rod, giving the welder more control and producing cleaner, finer welds.
How Does TIG Welding Work?
TIG Welding involves:
- A tungsten electrode
- A filler rod added by hand
- Inert gas shielding (usually argon)
It’s slower than MIG Welding, but the finish is often superior.
Best Uses for TIG Welding
TIG works well with:
- Thin metals
- Stainless steel
- Aluminium
- Brass, copper, and alloys
- Architectural metalwork
- Detailed fabrication
- Custom jobs where looks matter
Why Choose TIG Welding?
If you need a weld that’s neat, smooth, and visually clean, this is the method. It’s used for high-end projects where quality is more important than speed. For example, custom handrails, decorative metal pieces, and precision pipework all benefit from TIG Welding.
SQ Mobile Welding often uses TIG for architectural welding and detailed commercial fabrication, especially when the finished result is visible.
What Is Arc Welding?
Arc Welding (Stick Welding) is the tough, reliable method suited for heavy-duty and outdoor projects. It uses a consumable electrode coated in flux, which creates a protective gas cloud during welding.
How Does Arc Welding Work?
Arc Welding uses:
- A flux-coated rod
- An electric current that melts the rod
- A shielding layer created by flux
This protects the weld from contamination.
Where Arc Welding Performs Best
Arc is ideal for:
- Rusty or dirty metals
- Outdoor repairs
- Structural steel
- Farm equipment
- Heavy industry
- Remote or hard-access jobs
Why Arc Welding Is So Practical
Brisbane job sites often involve exposure to weather, dirt, and less-than-perfect surfaces. Arc Welding is a strong, durable method that still works even when conditions aren’t ideal. It’s a favourite for fast repairs or rural jobs.
What’s the Difference Between MIG, TIG and Arc Welding?
If you're comparing the three, here’s the simplest way to understand them:
| Welding Type | Best For | Strength | Speed | Appearance |
| MIG Welding | Structural work, general fabrication | High | Fast | Good |
| TIG Welding | Precision and clean finishes | Very High | Slow | Excellent |
| Arc Welding | Outdoor, heavy-duty, dirty metals | High | Medium | Fair |
The short version:
- MIG Welding = strong + efficient
- TIG Welding = professional finish + precision
- Arc Welding = reliable in tough conditions
At SQ Mobile Welding, we work with all three every day and choose the method that gives you the strongest, cleanest and most cost-effective result.
How Do You Know Which Welding Method You Need?
Most people don’t know — and you don’t need to.
SQ Mobile Welding will:
- Inspect the job
- Assess the metal type
- Check the conditions
- Recommend the best welding method
- Complete the work cleanly and safely
This is why mobile welding is so useful. We come to your site with all the equipment and determine the safest and strongest approach.
Our On-Site Mobile Welding Process
We keep it simple:
1. Contact Us
Call or submit a short enquiry describing your job.
2. On-Site Inspection
We assess the project, materials, and environment.
3. Quote & Timeline
Clear, upfront pricing — no upsells or surprises.
4. On-Site Welding
We bring MIG, TIG or Arc Welding equipment directly to your location.
5. Clean, Strong Finish
We leave your site tidy and the welds solid.
Why Choose SQ Mobile Welding for MIG Welding in Brisbane?
Straightforward reasons:
- 30+ years of welding experience
- Mobile service across Brisbane
- Precision and high-quality workmanship
- Fast turnaround
- Reliable on-site service
- Work with all metal types
- Safety-focused and fully equipped
You’re not guessing which method you need — we choose what will give you the strongest and cleanest result.
FAQs About MIG, TIG and Arc Welding
1. What is MIG Welding best for?
MIG Welding is best for fabrication, structural metalwork, frames, and thicker metals. It’s fast, strong, and ideal for most on-site jobs.
2. Is TIG Welding better than MIG?
Not better — just different. TIG offers a cleaner finish and higher precision, but MIG is faster and more versatile for general fabrication.
3. When should Arc Welding be used?
Arc Welding is ideal outdoors or on dirty, rusty, or heavy-duty metals.
4. Which welding method is strongest?
All three are strong when done correctly, but TIG is often the strongest for precision work, and MIG is the strongest for thicker metals.
5. Do I need to choose the method myself?
No. We assess your project and choose the method that delivers the safest and most durable result.
Understanding MIG, TIG and Arc Welding makes it easier to know what your project needs — but you don’t have to become an expert. At SQ Mobile Welding, we use 30 years of experience to select the right welding method and deliver strong, clean, reliable welds anywhere in Brisbane.
If you need MIG Welding, TIG Welding or Arc Welding in Brisbane, get in touch. Tell us what you need welded, and we’ll handle the rest — fast, clean and done properly the first time.
