MIG Welding Explained: How It Works, Benefits, and Drawbacks

Today I will be discussing the working principle of MIG (metal inert gas) welding. I previously published an article on MIG welding. check out!

Working principles of MIG welding

This welding process is achieved when a cable from either AC or DC power supply is connected to a consumable electrode (welding gun) and the earth cable is placed on the workpiece. At this point, the welding gun is carrying current. Whenever it is placed closed to the workpiece, an arc is produced.

The arc melts the base metal and an inert gas supply is provided around the electrode during the process. This gas shield is around the arc and the weld pool, helping to protect the weld from the external atmosphere. At this point, it solidifies and the joint is obtained.

watch the video below to learn the working of MIG welding:

Advantages

The followings are the advantages of metal inert gas welding MIG:

• It is easy and simple
• A filler material is not needed
• The gas is protected automatically
• A continuous electrode is easy to feed
• It does not produce slag

Disadvantages

Despite the great benefits of MIG welding, the following are disadvantages of this welding process.

• The welder is exposed to hazardous gases
• Weld becomes porous if the welding gun is not properly handled
• Improper welding may lead to the floating of solid impurities over the liquid welding
• It is expensive and the equipment is not portable
• It cannot be done outdoor because of the effect of wind, dispersing the shielding gas.

That is all for this article, where the working principles of MIG welding are being discussed. I hope you enjoyed the reading, if so, kindly share with other students. Thanks for reading, see you next time!