A welding tungsten is a non-consumable electrode which is made out of a rare metallic element. This typical electrode is available in a broad range of different sizes and lengths and is either made up of 99% tungsten or a combination of tungsten and other oxides and elements. It has the highest melting point of any metal so can be used to transfer a welding current to an arc without breaking down or degrading.

TIG welding tungsten types & colour codes

The colour white, zirconiated, is best used for AC welding on aluminium and magnesium. The colour gold, lanthanated, is best suited to welding steel and stainless steel. Thoriated tungsten is coloured in red and best used for carbon and stainless steel, nickel, and titanium.