Know the Limitations of MIG Welding
10 May 2021Welding generally is the process of joining two metals together through heating their surfaces. And for these metals to be successfully combined, the temperature of the welding process should reach their melting points. To date, there are many types of welding that professionals can carry out. One of these types is metal inert gas (MIG) welding.
MIG welding, which is also known as gas metal arc welding, is a type of welding that utilises an electric arc to combine two metals. The electric arc is generated between the consumable wire electrode and the surface being welded, with the entire welding process being protected by a shielding gas to keep the molten pool of weld metal free from any impurities that can be obtained from elements. What is great about MIG welding is that it can generate higher welding speeds, greater deposition rates, and better weld pool visibility. However, it still has several limitations that you should know about.
Dependent on Shielding Gas
While the shielding gas can protect the molten pool of weld metal from obtaining impurities, it can also cause some issues with the entire MIG welding process. The shielding gas requires an environment wherein wind will be minimised. And if the MIG welding is done outdoors where there is heavy wind, then the shielding gas can be pushed away, leaving the weld metal vulnerable to damages. A high level of porosity may even be expected once the gas is removed, making it difficult for the weld to penetrate.
Changing of Consumables
One great thing about the things utilised in MIG welding is that they can be easily replaced. These consumables are often comprised of welding tips, welding nozzles, and weld liners, which are often replaced and used after conducting the welding process. They might be easily replaced, but they could cost a lot over time, adding to the overall expenses that must be considered right at the very start.
Cleaning and Maintenance
Another notable limitation of MIG welding is that it can pose some difficulties when it comes to cleaning. The welds themselves do not truly produce a lot of dirt along the way. However, the MIG welders can boast some dirty elements as the welding process is carried out. The nozzle can be plugged up with spatter, while the weld tip can be filled up with dirt. The welding liner can likewise obtain some weld dust. Two possible solutions to this limitation are to clean the welders and replace the consumables regularly.
Portability and Convenience
One more limitation of MIG welding is that it utilises components that are heavy. MIG welders and all other components are intended to be portable, but their weight and features often cause some hefty limitations. For the shielding gas alone, its tank typically weighs over 45 kilograms. MIG welders are likewise heavy, which typically weigh more than 30 kilograms. Associated to these MIG welders is the roll of wire, which may come in a 4.5-kilogram spool to 27-kilogram spools and above.
Fortunately, MIG welding can still be carried out effectively and produce great results. To know more about this type of welding, feel free to reach us at Kinetic Engineering.
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