Learning Welding: Top MIG Welding Mistakes and How to Avoid Them

Learning to weld can be fun and exciting. It can let an individual fix various items and equipment in the home or even make cool art projects. Of course, there is a lot of information to sort through when it comes to welding. There are a few different types of welding, but you do not need to learn them all at once. One step or method at a time is the best way to learn, moving on after you get the hang of that particular technique. In most cases, MIG welding is the best choice for beginners. When first starting, you will make mistakes, but you will get better with practice. Let’s take a look at some of the most common MIG welding mistakes and how they can be avoided. 

Improper Wire Delivery

MIG welding uses an electrode on a spool that is fed through the welding gun. To function properly, this wire needs to be fed to the gun correctly or it can result in several issues such as wire chatter, hissing, or a wild arc. The best way to get this right the first time 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, which is then trimmed flush with the power pin. This eliminates the chance of a wrong-sized liner. 

Spatter Issues

Spatter is another common issue for those who are new to welding. This occurs when excess molten material is scattering around the weld or surface of the metal. This could be a result of incorrect quality or quantity supplied shield gas or can also come about from a polarity change in the electrodes. To prevent or fix spatter problems, 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. 

Bad Ground

A bad ground can result in several different issues for new welders. It can increase heat in the front of the gun, cause the arc to become erratic, and decrease the life of the contact tip and front end consumables. This one is pretty easy to prevent by putting the ground on the weldment or as close to the workpiece as possible. The closer the better when it comes to placing the ground. 

Cable Management

Caring for welding equipment includes proper cable care and management, as they are critical to good functioning. The welder should never be pulled around by the cables, as this can stretch them out, damage them, or pull them from the gas pin. Also, when letting the gun cool, lay it flat for the best results. All cables and wires will be easier to bend when they are hot, so it is important to have them in the right positions when they are cooling so that they do not take an improper or bent shape. 

Proper Care and Maintenance is Key to Success

The bottom line when it comes to MIG welding for beginners is that many issues can be avoided by simply taking care of the equipment. This includes following the above steps to avoid mechanical issues and malfunctions, but it also means proper maintenance. Equipment should be regularly cleaned and evaluated for issues so that they can be remedied quickly. This includes the nozzle, liner, and contact tip. Make sure to frequently check connections and make sure that the cables lie flat like they should. Follow these MIG welding tips and the life of the machine and equipment will be extended and it will produce great welds. 

Looking for MIG Weld Equipment? 

Finding the right MIG welding equipment can be confusing because of all the options, but we make it as clear as possible. At Welding for Less, we offer many options on our website for both beginners and experts. We also provide clear details and information to help individuals find the right rig for them. Contact us today at info@weldingforless.com or call at (877) 219-3936.