Tag: advantages

If you know anything about metalwork and manufacturing, then you’ll probably have heard of Metal Inert Gas welding. Otherwise known as Gas Metal Arc Welding – or GMAW – MIG Welding is a popular welding technique that is commonly used in a variety of manufacturing operations, and is particularly popular in the automobile modern machinery used parts. Metal Inert Gas welding equipment uses highly charged wire electrodes to fuse metal together, with a consistent flow of inert gas acting as a shield for the weld zone, protecting it from dust and other air-borne contaminants.
Developed in the 1940s by the Battelle Memorial Institute, MIG welding was initially pioneered as a method of welding non-ferrous metals like aluminium. However, technological advances have made MIG welding equipment easier and more affordable to install, which have led to widespread adoption of the process in a number of manufacturing industries. MIG welding is now used to work with a wide range of different metals, including steel, nickel and various metal alloys.
Compared to traditional welding techniques, there are a number of significant advantages to MIG welding, which have made the technique extremely popular within the world of manufacturing. The versatility of MIG welding means that it can be used with a variety of different metals, while the process can also be operated either automatically or semi-automatically. MIG welding is capable of producing high quality, splatter-free welds, and operates much faster than other techniques, with only minor loss of alloying elements. Furthermore, the technique does not require use of a flux, which negates the possibility of slag entrapment, improving weld quality even further.
You should be aware that MIG welding equipment is relatively complex to install and operate, and even experienced welders will need retraining before they can use it. Due to the importance of the inert gas shield, the welding environment is also common maintenance problems very important, as any air current can interfere with the gas flow. Due to the high heat and weld puddle fluidity, MIG welding equipment cannot be used in an overhead welding position, which differentiates it from other welding techniques.
Welding supplies necessary for the MIG process include the welding gun, a source of direct current, wire-drive machinery and a flow of inert gas. If you are using a water-cooled welding gun, you will also need a source of water, and it is also advisable to use a MIG rod oven for safe electrode storage. Welding supplies are usually best obtained from a specialist retailer, such as , who will have the necessary expertise to help you get the right welding equipment for your needs.…