OPERATION
WELDING WIRE DIAMETER CHART
RECOMMENDED WIRE DIAMETERS
For material thickness of 5.0mm and greater, multi-pass runs or a beveled joint design may be
required depending on the amperage capability of your machine.
Gas selection - The purpose of the gas in the MIG process is to protect / shield the wire, the arc and
the molten weld metal from the atmosphere. Most metals when heated to a molten state will react
with the air in the atmosphere, without the protection of the shielding gas the weld produced would
contain defects like porosity, lack of fusion and slag inclusions. Additionally some of the gas becomes
ionised (electrically charged) and helps the current flow smoothly.
The correct gas flow is also very important in protecting the welding zone from the atmosphere. Too
low flow will give inadequate coverage and result in weld defects and unstable arc conditions. Too
high flow can cause air to be drawn into the gas column and contaminate the weld zone.
Use the correct shielding gas. Co2 is good for steel and offers good penetration characteristics, the
weld profile is narrower and slightly more raised than the weld profile obtained from Argon Co2
mixed gas. Argon Co2 mix gas offers better weld ability for thin metals and has a wider range of
setting tolerance on the machine. Argon 80% Co2 20% is a good all round mix suitable for most
applications.
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