What You Need to Know About MIG Welding (Part 2)

Date Posted:24 April 2023 

MIG welding, or Gas Metal Arc Welding (GMAW), is a popular welding technique used in various industries, including automotive, manufacturing, and construction. Part one of this article discussed MIG welding basics, including the equipment and technique involved.

In this article, your trusted supplier of MIG welding machines will delve deeper into the topic and explore the metal transfer modes, shielding gases, metals that can be MIG-welded, and applications of MIG welding in Australia:

4 Metal Transfer Moders

MIG welding has four metal transfer modes, each with its unique characteristics. The four modes include short-circuiting, globular, spray, and pulsed.

Short-Circuiting Mode

The Short Circuiting Mode is a type of metal transfer used in welding. In this mode, the wire electrode and the base metal are joined, creating a short circuit. This causes an electric current to flow between the two, producing a welding arc.

Short-Circuiting Mode is usually used when welding thin materials, as the arc is more stable and there is less spatter. This makes it ideal for welding thin sheet metal and small items. It is also often used to join materials of different thicknesses, as it can produce a smooth weld without creating too much heat. This mode is also known for its high deposition rate, which makes it an excellent choice for welding large components.

Globular Mode

The globular mode is similar to the short-circuiting mode, but the welding wire does not touch the metal. Instead, the wire melts and forms a droplet. The droplet falls into the puddle, creating a weld. This mode is suitable for thicker metals and is commonly used in construction.

Spray Mode

In the spray mode, the welding wire melts and sprays onto the metal, creating a fine mist. The mist solidifies to form a weld. This mode is typically used in the manufacturing industry.

Pulsed Mode

In the pulsed mode, the welding wire melts and pulses on and off, creating a weld. This mode is suitable for welding thin and thick metals and is commonly used in the aerospace industry.

Shielding Gases

MIG welding needs a shielding gas to protect the weld from atmospheric contamination. The shielding gas is typically a mixture of argon, carbon dioxide, and oxygen. The type of shielding gas used depends on the metal being welded and the welding technique used.

Metals That Can Be MIG-Welded

MIG welding can be used to weld various metals, like mild steel, stainless steel, and aluminum. Mild steel is the most commonly welded metal used in various industries. Stainless steel is usually used in the food and beverage industry because of its corrosion resistance. Aluminum is usually used in the aerospace industry due to its lightweight and strength.

MIG Welding Applications

MIG welding is used in various applications in Australia, including automotive, manufacturing, and construction. In the automotive industry, MIG welding is used to repair and fabricate parts. MIG welding is used in the manufacturing industry to fabricate and assemble parts. In the construction industry, MIG welding is used for welding structural steel and fabricating metal structures.

Conclusion

MIG welding is a versatile welding technique used in various industries in Australia. Understanding the metal transfer modes, shielding gases, metals that can be MIG-welded, and applications of MIG welding is crucial in achieving quality welds. If you are looking for a welding technique for your next project, consider getting a MIG welding machine and give MIG welding a try.

National Welding Supplies is a well-known provider of welding tools and equipment throughout Australia. We have the highest quality industrial welding supplies that you need for your projects. We have MIG welding machines and other welding materials that can help you get the job done right. Contact us today to learn more about our products!


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