Metal Inert Gas Welding
An arc welding process employing a continuously fed wire electrode and inert shielding gas, specifically applied for non-ferrous metals like aluminum and copper alloys.
In MIG welding, a continuous wire melts in the arc while inert gas shields the weld from air. The gas prevents the melt from reacting with oxygen or moisture, which would otherwise make the weld porous and brittle. The process is well suited for aluminum and other non-ferrous metals because the shielding gas atmosphere preserves alloy properties. If you don't work cleanly with the gas amount or wire feed speed, you'll quickly get a dirty, uneven weld. Make sure the gas cylinder is open and the flow is right before you strike the arc. Run the weld at a steady pace and adjust the machine setting by feel and weld appearance—not stubbornly by some value.