How To Mig Weld

5
Aug/090

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learn How to Weld Like A Pro

Learning how to mig weld is most likely the easiest method of welding to master. The basic concept of mig welders is that they use a wire feed mechanism to feed metal filler to the weld. The wire is held on a replaceable spool that can be either mild steel for metal, aluminum wire for welding aluminum, or stainless steel wire for stainless.

In conjunction with the wire feed system, mig welders also require a shielding gas to protect the weld area from oxygen contamination. Also available is a 'gasless' wire for welding mild steel only, while the weld finish is not as good as using shielding gas, gasless wire is excellent for outdoor situations where weather and location make conventional mig welding difficult.

One of the basics one needs to master when learning how to mig weld is the setting up process of the welder itself. Different thicknesses of metal and the type of metal require different power settings. For example a mig machine set up to weld 1/4 inch plate would simply not handle welding 2 inch plate. A welding machines power is graded by amperage, so the higher the amperage of the welder the heavier the metal you are able to weld. To weld 1 inch thick steel and upwards would require a welder of in excess of 400 amps.

To operate the mig welder the work to be welded needs to have the earth clamp from the welder attached to the work-peice. Once the appropriate power settings are in place the operator pulls the trigger on the welding gun to activate the wire feed and the welder’s power. The resulting heat and injection of metal filler to the metal initiates the weld process.