MIG Welding (GMAW): Equipment, Techniques & Automation

Metal Inert Gas (MIG) welding can also be called Gas Metal Arc Welding (GMAW). Whether you are opening a business that involves MIG welding, wanting to incorporate it into a current process, or looking into automating it, read on to learn what is involved with MIG welding.

What Equipment is Needed?

• Welding Gun - Both air and water-cooled guns are available. Water cooled guns are typically used during heavier welding applications.
• Filler Wire - Aluminum and combinations of carbon-steel and stainless steel are all available depending on the type of metal you are welding. When using filler wire, it is important to make sure that the contact tips do not show wear because worn tips can ruin a weld.
• Electrical Power Source - Usually DC power. The arc length depends on the voltage and the current depends on the wire feed speed.
• Inert Gas - Inert gases tend to have full outer electron shells, making them non-reactive. Argon, helium, carbon dioxide or a combination of these inert gases are commonly used in MIG welding. The type of shielding gas can directly affect the quality and strength of the weld, so you must choose based on the type of metal being welded.

How Does MIG Welding Work?

Using a wire feeding system, the consumable filler wire is passed through the welding gun creating an arc between the electrode wire and the metal workpiece. At the same time, an inert gas is passed through the gun to protect the weld from any air contaminants and oxidation.

Why Use MIG Welding?

MIG welding can be used for both thin and thick metal welds. It quickly applies welds and is great for longer welds without stops. Impurities and porosity can occur with MIG welding. This welding application is commonly used for sheet metal jobs, especially the automobile industry.

How to Automate MIG Welding?

Welding is a process that tends to take time and skill. Though MIG welding is one of the more user-friendly welding applications, it is difficult to produce a long weld with the consistency and precision desired. To help save time and money, you can automate the MIG welding process. It is an easy application to automate. MIG welding robots are available in multiple brands, shapes and sizes. They also have flexible mounting positions that allow for better reach. When automating a MIG welder, it is important to make sure the welder is grounded. If the MIG welder grounding is not close to the arc, the current could find another path, which could lead to disaster for the weld and possibly the safety of those in the immediate area.

If you have more questions, or you are ready to automate, RobotWorx is the place for all your MIG welding needs. RobotWorx buys and sells new and used MIG welding robots that provide more efficiency to the welding process.

To learn more on how to automate, upgrade or purchase MIG welding robots, contact RobotWorx online or at 877-762-6881.