Tools/mig/induction: Difference between revisions

 

* Machine strikes an arc between the work and a consumable wire electrode, melting a pool of metal

* Wire dips in and out, adding metal to the pool

* Gas shields the hot metal from the air

* Arc-eye hazard to you and people around you

** Using an auto-darkening welding mask

** Suitable settings on mask (9-11, 12 maybe - start at 10 and adjust)

** Shouting "Eyes" if there are other people around

** The voltage is low, but you still don't want to touch it

** Mind what you point the torch at

** NO RINGS, NO WATCHES!!

** Users with implanted medical devices should seek doctor's approval before welding, it's not usually a problem, but please do check

*** Use only suitably rated industrial extension leads, they're in the desk drawer B1B

*** Extension leads are a trip hazard, warn people

* Clean up weld area - be aware of burning paint

* Clean area for earth clamp

** No bevel on thin materials

** Regular 2/3rds bevel most of the time

|| Proper preparation is necessary for good welds, cover bevel patterns for other weld types later

|-

** Resting your other hand on something to use as a guide

* How the pool forms (Only cover dip transfer)

* Keeping the wire aimed at the nose of the pool

** Further towards the tip of the pool = fast move, thinner bead, less penetration

* Arc won't strike - Ground clamp not connected

* Weld moves around erratically - too much gas or influence from holding magnets

|-

|-

| Butt joints ||

** Flap discs will tidy up welds that are good to start with

** Grinding discs will remove messy welds quickly

* Sweeping up and putting everything back where it belongs

* Working out your total weld length and paying for it

| Final thoughts ||

* This has only been an extremely brief over-view of MIG welding

* The sMIG feature is providing you a LOT of help on this welder, if you switch to a welder without sMIG you may find things a lot harder

* If you want to weld aluminium or magnesium alloys, Stainless Steel, Brazing or other techniques then you can look at [[Tools/TIG/induction#level2|TIG level 2]] or [[tools/mig/induction#level2|MIG level-2]] inductions although it's not compulsory to do level-2 inductions if you've already done the relevant level-1 inductions and if you think you can manage these techniques without further help

|| Closing comments

|}

 

<div id="level2"></div>

 

== MIG Welder induction - Level 2 ==

 

=== Main level 2 induction ===

** But if your welds are structural or otherwise sensitive to contamination, don't use it

* Controlling weld distortion

** You CANNOT prevent distortion, but you can control it.

** Extensive tacking and clamping will help reduce it a bit.