TIG vs MIG - What is the difference?

When it comes to choosing a performance exhaust system for your vehicle, there's a wide range of systems available. From a simple bolt-on rear section to improve the sound, through to a full turbo-back setup with the associated performance benefits, there's something for everyone out there. However, when it comes to the manufacturing process, all performance exhaust systems are not the same.

Aside from the differences in design and the type of materials used, one of the biggest factors that affects the quality of a performance exhaust is the welding. This is one area in which Cobra Sport is ahead of the game. Whereas many of their competitors use MIG-welding for their exhaust systems, Cobra Sport's highly-skilled technicians utilise superior TIG-welding techniques.

But what exactly is the difference?

MIG or Metal Inert Gas welding is primarily used where longer welds are required and where speed is a key factor in the production process. It requires less finesse and relies on more filler, which in turn creates more splatter, leads to messier welds and adds weight.

TIG or Tungsten Inert Gas welding on the other hand requires specialist machinery and a highly-skilled technician. It's a labour intensive system that takes two to three times longer, than MIG-welding.

The material surfaces have to be spotlessly prepared, clean and cut to much smaller tolerances to ensure a strong better looking weld, with no splatter. TIG-welding produces less brittle, precision welds, which are lighter, stronger, more accurate and durable. With an intricate product such as an exhaust system, TIG-welding is by far the best solution in terms of quality and aesthetics.

Cobra Sport has invested heavily in the additional equipment, training and time required for all of their exhaust systems to be TIG-welded. This craftsmanship approach, ensures quality that will last and is one of the reasons why Cobra Sport are confident to offer a lifetime warranty.