MIG welding is a widely used welding process that uses a continuous wire electrode and a shielding gas to join two or more pieces of metal. It’s a versatile and efficient welding process in various industries, including automotive, construction, and manufacturing. This blog post will cover everything you need to know about MIG welding, from its history to its benefits and how to use it effectively with the help of MIG shielding gas.
History of MIG Welding
MIG welding was first developed in the 1940s for non-ferrous metals like aluminium and magnesium. The process was later modified to weld steel, making it one of today’s most popular welding processes.
The first MIG welding machine was developed in the early 1950s by a team of engineers from the Battelle Memorial Institute in Ohio. Since then, the process has undergone several modifications and improvements, making it more efficient and easier to use.
How MIG Welding Works?
MIG welding feeds a continuous wire electrode through a welding gun and into the weld pool. The welding gun also releases a shielding gas, typically a mixture of argon and carbon dioxide, which protects the weld from atmospheric contamination. The wire electrode melts and fuses the metal pieces, creating a strong and durable weld.
MIG Shielding Gas
MIG shielding gas is a critical component of the welding process. The gas serves two primary purposes: it protects the weld from atmospheric contamination and helps create a stable arc. The most common shielding gases are argon and carbon dioxide, often mixed in different ratios to suit specific welding needs.
The choice of shielding gas depends on the type of metal being welded and the welding conditions. For example, a higher percentage of carbon dioxide in the shielding gas can help produce deeper penetration in steel welding. On the other hand, a higher percentage of argon can help create a cleaner weld and reduce spatter.
Advantages of MIG welding
Easy to learn: Compared to other welding processes, such as TIG welding, MIG welding is relatively easy to understand. The process is straightforward, and with some practice, even beginners can produce high-quality welds.
High deposition rates: MIG welding can produce high deposition rates, making it ideal for welding thick metals. The process is also suitable for welding in tight spaces and hard-to-reach areas.
Less heat distortion: MIG welding produces less heat distortion than other welding processes, such as stick welding. The welding gun only heats the metal being welded, leaving the surrounding area relatively cool.
Minimal post-weld clean-up: MIG welding produces minimal slag, spatter, and smoke, making post-weld clean-up quick and easy.
Suitable for automation: MIG welding is easily automated, making it ideal for high-volume production. Automated MIG welding can improve efficiency and consistency while reducing labour costs.
Suitable for welding thin materials: MIG welding can be used to weld thin materials, such as sheet metal, without burning through the metal. This is because the process uses a lower heat input than other welding processes.
Versatile: MIG welding can weld various materials, including carbon steel, stainless steel, aluminium, and copper alloys. This makes it a versatile welding process suitable for multiple welding applications.
MIG welding is a versatile and efficient welding process used in various industries worldwide. The method uses a continuous wire electrode and a shielding gas to create solid and durable welds. Using MIG welding, choosing the suitable shielding gas, wire electrode, and welding parameters are essential to achieve the desired weld quality. With the tips in this blog post, you can improve your MIG welding skills and produce high-quality welds every time.
