Sourcing Industrial Equipment

MIG welding, also known as wire welding or GMAW (gas metal arc welding), is a process where a solid wire electrode is passed through a welding gun to access the weld pool and join two materials/metals together. MIG is an abbreviation for metal inert gas. To prevent contamination, a shielding gas is also fed through the welding gun to access the weld pool.

MIG welding is a popular method because of how easy it is; you can even DIY at your home. However, you need to have some experience before attempting a DIY project.

Note the few important safety tips you need to consider when carrying out MIG welding:

Obstacles and Fire Hazards

Safety should be your priority because any form of welding can lead to damage to property or severe injury. Clear the working area of any obstacles (things that hinder work or that could trip you) and fire hazards (materials that can catch fire).

Weather and Environmental Conditions

Don't carry out welding in the rain, where there is moisture, or on ice/snow. If you are not careful, you can get injured from electrocution or when you slip and fall as you are welding. Try and do your welding indoors in a dry place when the weather is unfavourable.

Inspect Your Equipment

Check the gas hoses for leaks; you don't want to start welding when there is gas leakage. If you note any leakage, replace the hose with a new one. You should also set the correct shielding gas flow rate.

Inspect all the cables for damage and exposed areas. These can cause electrocution or fires. Ensure that all connections are also tightly fitting and insulated. Loose connections can damage equipment and also lead to sparking, which leads to fire and electrocution.

Personal Protective Equipment

Get the correct personal protective gear; this includes a welding helmet, skull cap or safety glasses for your face and head (a welding helmet is the best because it covers your entire head), leather gloves, a long-sleeved flame-resistant jacket, full-length pants and leather boots.  

Rust, Dirt and Oil

If these are present on the metal surface you are welding, you have to clean or remove them. MIG welding does work well when there is rust, dirt or oil. If you try welding on such surfaces, you might end up wasting resources or the work you do might be shoddy. You might also cause an accident because the joint may not hold. It will break and the metal may fall on you.

If you need help with your project, contact an MIG welder in your area.