What Is Involved in MIG Welding?
First, before we get into what a welder does, we shall begin with a definition of MIG welding. MIG stands for Metal Inert Gas welding, and it is called Gas Metal Arc Welding, or GMAW for short, however, the term MIG welding is more common, so we will continue to use it here.
MIG is still the most popular welding process today, for both professional and DIY welders. It is fast, strong, versatile, and easy for most people to learn. Because it is a great process, there is a steady stream of newcomers that are determined to learn this trade.
MIG welding uses a power supply that provides constant voltage, and the most common is Direct Current Electrode Positive or DCEP for short. The power supply will use transformers and rectifiers that will modulate line voltage, this is what stabilizes the arc and provides a good arc start, in addition to incorporating circuitry that will protect against overload. A work clamp will need to be connected to the material being welded to the power supply, thus completing the circuit. There is a spool of wire, which is usually housed in the power supply case, in addition to a drive mechanism that will feed the wire through the cable, to the gun.
The majority of MIG welding is performed with a gas shield, and the most common is carbon dioxide and argon/CO2 mixes. The gas bottle will have a regulator or flowmeter that you can set the gas flow to. There are several variables here, however, a general rule of thumb for light-duty welding is to use around 20 cubic feet an hour of gas flow.
If you are looking for a professional welder that is based in Orlando, FL, please call S & G Mobile Welding first if you want to learn about the services we can offer you at (407) 487-8450 today.