Need some input on TIG welding

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We build some large stainless steel tanks at work to hold dry fertilizer. These tanks are fabbed  out of 12 ga. They take about 70 feet of welding. We are welding them now with mig with tri mix. Some think we should use TIG so the welds will be prettier. I say it would not be feasible as the cost and the extra time involved.  Besides, I  believe it would cause more buckling because of the extra time involved isnt the metal going to get hotter. All input appreciated.
Reply:If a process change doesn't improve function, lower cost or improve the workplace environment it's usually not wise.There are some scary good looking SS welds made with SMAW electrode also, but I doubt many welders would put the mig down and grab the stick when looking at 70 feet of work when mig is getting the job done.Matt
Reply:Thanks Matt, but that doesnt answer my question. More input needed.
Reply:Mig appears to be the best process for your situation, in my opinion.  I would keep using it.  Tig is just going to increase the consumables cost, as more argon will be used and tig filler rod is more expensive to weld with than mig wire.  Then there's labor hours, you're saving alot with mig now.  Expect labor to increase by at least 50% using the slower and less cleanliness tolerant tig process instead of the faster and more cleanliness tolerant mig process.   You're right, warpage could possibly increase with tig due to the increased time the heat is applied.  How 'pretty' do these fertilizer tank welds need to be??MM350P/Python/Q300MM175/Q300DialarcHFHTP MIG200PowCon300SMHypertherm380ThermalArc185Purox oaF350CrewCab4x4LoadNGo utilitybedBobcat250XMT304/Optima/SpoolmaticSuitcase12RC/Q300Suitcase8RC/Q400Passport/Q300Smith op
Reply:I dont see what kind of answer you want from us, seems like you already have your answer.  You said it will be slow and cost more, and well as cause more distorsion.  The only advantage of going with TIG would be apperance and depending on the welder that may only be marginal at best.So, if you need the TIG apperance then I suggest go with that, but if it was my job no way in hell I would reach for anything else other than the MIG.  I bet my MIG welds would look better than most TIG welds of that length anyways.Have we all gone mad?
Reply:I would stay with the mig. Faster, more cost efficient, and less chance of warpage problems.
Reply:Buck up and get a pulsed mig; you can get excellent looking welds with it. Or..... get good with a grinder and polish wheel. It will still be faster than tig.And then, after so much work...... you have it in your hand, and you look over to your side...... and the runner has run off. Leaving you holding the prize, wondering when the runner will return.
Reply:Now thats what I am looking for, input. Thanks. Anymore?
Reply:Just reread this post. We are using a pulsed mig. Not just mig. Thanks
Reply:Well you have your answer. Tig is more costly in man hrs(both fitup and cleaning time), gas, filler along with the additional warpage issues. What types of welds are you having issues with fillet, butt weld? With a good pulsed mig I can throw down beads that actually look better than 99.99% of my coworkers can tig. Not that its their fault they just dont have a lot of experiance with tig....which most people don't. Which brings the next hitch in the "go to tig plan" finding people skilled enough to perform the task. making stainless mig welds look good is almost ALL about perfect fitup then its about having a properly setup machine then it comes down to the weldor. It's just not nearly as forgiving as mild steel. If the concern is apperance I would start by taking a closer look at your fitup and then at the skill level of your weldors. pics? not necessarily of the product but just of the welds maybe? I know I would get crucified and fired if I posted full pics of our products. Not that I do anything super top secret lol. Just business I guess. btw I'm the foreman of a shop that almost exclusively fabricates stainless products 99% of which is mig welded.
Reply:Thank you i4sillypwr. Thats what I was looking for .