A MIG welder is someone skilled in the performance of Metal Inert Gas (MIG) or arc welding. This process uses electricity to fuse two pieces of metal together. Its name comes from the use of an inert "shielding gas" during the weld. Below is a brief guide to MIG welding and an explanation of how it works.

What Is MIG Welding?

A MIG welder uses an electric welding torch that generates a powerful current—and thus heat— between the tip of the tool and the weld point. Meanwhile, the technician feeds a continuous spool of metal wire into the arc to act as a filler material. The heat of the arc causes the weld point of the workpiece and the filler wire to become molten. The metal flows together and, as it cools, undergoes a chemical change that bonds the two pieces together permanently, with the additional filler wire material adding mass and stability.

Why Is a Shielding Gas Necessary?

Oxygen is a corrosive gas that causes rust when it interacts with bare metal and the moisture in the atmosphere. Rust at the join point weakens the weld and compromises the connection. To prevent corrosion, the MIG welder blows an "inert" shielding gas like argon or helium across the weld point to prevent oxygen from contaminating the weld. Inert gases have very low reactivity—i.e., they don't form compounds with other materials. However, despite its higher reactivity, carbon dioxide is exceptionally inexpensive, so it is has become one of the most popular shielding gases when the cost of materials is a factor.

If you need an experienced MIG welder for your metal fabrication project, look no further than C & C Machine in La Crosse, WI. They are the region's oldest and most experienced machine shop, and they provide solutions for nearly any challenge you face, including portable welding, CNC fabrication, and machine repair. Visit their website to connect with them online or call (608) 784-4427 to schedule service with an expert MIG welder.