when welding with a mig welder what does the sheilding gas actually do?

Question

using argon/ CO2 mix but I am not sure what its purpose is. I know if I don't have it, the welds look bad, but I don't understand why it helps.

Answer 1

A mig, or any other type of welding that uses sheiding gas uses this to keep the atmospheric contaminants from the weld puddle as it cools/solidifies. If you don't have sheiding gas you could possibly use "flux core" wire. If you have a tank/bottle on your welder you need to learn to work the regulator, My little lincoln mig has a little guide inside the door. You can go to Lincoln.com for a troubleshooting your welding problems. Good luck.

Answer 2

Like the others said it creates an atmosphere around the molted metal to keep the oxygen from creating porosity in the weld which weaken it structurally. A cheaper way to go and your really don't need to convert your whip is just use an inner-shield wire then you don't have to worry about any wind blowing away your atmosphere, it comes in all sizes from .030mm to 5/64 inch.
Probably what you would use is .035 which I use in a core shield/13 it will cut through any nasty rust (wire brushed) and oils cleaned with brushing also.

I have the 75/25 bottle also which I might use again when I get into dual shield for verticals, but I do like the inner-shield for all positions and uses


Good Luck

Answer 3

the argon is an inert gas, which means it doesnt react with anything. It creates an oxygen free cloud around the weld, which is important because when iron heats up, it readily reacts with oxygen and the end result is rust (the ugly welds). continue to use the gas to make stronger, better looking welds. hope that cleared it up for you.

Answer 4

It keeps Oxygen away from the weld.

Answer 5

The gas creates an enviroment free of oxygen and that helps prevent oxidized(ugly) welds. make sparks it is always fun.

Answer 6

Always wear a helmet with proper tinting. Make pretty, but strong welds.