MIG Welding Mistakes and How to Avoid Them
MIG welding is a complex and technical process that is used to join two different metal products together. Whether you are a new welder or have years of experience, it is crucial to know about common MIG welding mistakes and how to avoid them. As a leading provider of quality fabrication and welding services, the team at LWS Manufacturing & Welding understands the importance of welding safety. That is why we have compiled a list of 4 common MIG welding mistakes and how to avoid them to help you stay safe on the job.
Learn about the differences between MIG and TIG welding.
4 Common MIG Welding Mistakes
The following MIG welding mistakes are among the most common but can be prevented with proper preparation and technique:
1. Improper Wire Delivery
MIG welding uses an electrode on a spool that is fed through the welding gun. If this wire is not fed to the gun correctly, it can result in several issues such as wire chatter, hissing, or a wild arc. The best way to ensure that this task is completed properly is to use a liner gauge when cutting the liner. You can also use a consumable liner system that locks into the front or back of the gun to minimize the chance of an incorrectly sized liner.
2. A Bad Ground
A bad ground can result in several different issues including increased heat in the front of the gun, an erratic arc, and decreased usable life for the contact tip and front-end consumables. This is best prevented by putting the ground on the weldment or as close to the workpiece as possible. When it comes to placing the ground, closer is better.
3. Spatter Issues
Spatter is a common issue for new welders. When spattering occurs, excess molten material is scattered around the weld or surface of the metal. This can be caused by an incorrect voltage, excess wire extension, or from a polarity change in the electrodes. To prevent or fix spatter problems, you will need to reduce the weld voltage, decrease the size of the wire extension, decrease the speed of the wire delivery, and verify the polarity of the electrodes.
4. Poor Cabale Management
Caring for welding equipment includes proper cable care and management, as they are critical for safety and functionality. The welding gun should never be pulled around by the cables, as this can stretch them out, damage them, or pull them from the gas pin. All cables and wires will also be easier to bend when they are hot, so it is important to have them in the correct positions when they are cooling so that they do not settle into an improper or bent shape.
To learn more about our MIG welding services and metal fabrication solutions, get in touch with the team at LWS Manufacturing & Welding. We can be reached through our online contact form and will be happy to answer any questions you may have regarding our services.
