Argon for MIG welder is very handy for welding metal. It uses higher energy than other welding processes, making it not a good choice for welding low alloy content, such as stainless steel.
If you’re planning to MIG welding with 100% argon, then you have to think twice. That’s because it produces welding joints that are weak and fragile.
Let’s have a detailed view of MIG welding along with 100 argon.
Characteristics of MIG welding with 100 argon
There are several potential characteristics of MIG welding with 100 argon, including:
Environmentally friendly: MIG welding with 100% argon is an environmentally friendly process because it does not produce fumes or pollutants.
Reliability: MIG welding having 100% argon is a reliable process because it is a Contact Welding process. Contact Welding is a welding process that uses direct contact between the welding electrodes and the metal being welded.
Higher consumables costs: MIG welding containing 100 argon requires more consumables than other welding techniques, such as TIG welding.
Higher heat output: MIG welding and 100 argon produce higher heat than other welding techniques, which can lead to problems with the surrounding material.
Increased risk of fire: MIG welding with 100 argon is riskier than other welding techniques because of the high heat output. If the welding area is not properly protected, a fire can easily break out.
MIG welding with 100 argon: What is the process
When it comes to welding with a MIG welder, the most popular and common type is mixed gases with argon. But MIG welding with 100% argon is not a great option for a variety of applications because of the many problems it offers.
Steps before starting MIG welding with 100 Argon
When beginning MIG welding, be sure to read the safety information provided by your welding supplier. As with any welding process, there are risks associated with MIG welding with pure Argon, but with proper use and common sense, these can be minimized.
Here are the steps for welding with MIG:
- Wear safety glasses and a respirator when MIG welding.
- Keep your hands clean and free of oils, grease, and other debris.
- Use a wire feed rate that is comfortable for you. Too fast a feed rate can cause a spatter, while too slow a feed rate can cause the arc to start too low.
- Make sure to attach the Ground Clamp when using a welding table.
- Adjust the screw of the Argon cylinder and set up the PSI pressure according to your requirement.
The process for MIG welding along with 100 argon is similar to that for MIG welding with other gases. The user must be aware of the basic process steps, including the use of the necessary equipment, and the use of proper shielding.
Read More: Flux Core Welding Vs MIG Welding: What Is The Difference?
What pressure should argon be for MIG welding?
MIG welding has an easy modification of the gas flow rate. You can increase or decrease the rate through a regulator having only one valve for the Argon gas cylinder. But some gas regulators can have two valves.
You release Argon gas from the cylinder by opening the valve. And the gauge’s needle will move accordingly to show the flow rate of gas in CFH.
In MIG welding having 100% Argon, the gas cylinder has a pressure volume of 0 to 2500 pounds per square inch (PSI). You can select the pressure, a little over 1000 PSI, which is enough to weld.
What do you set argon at for MIG welding?
Different gases can be used in MIG welding such as 100% Co2, 100% Argon, 75% Argon with 25% Co2. These gases are used in welding with different materials such as Mild steel, Aluminium, Stainless steel, etc.
As for 100% Argon, it is used in welding Aluminium. Other materials like mild steel or stainless steel are not welded with 100% Argon. To weld Aluminium with Argon gas, set at 25-30 cubic feet per hour (CFH). It is ideal for welding with 100% Argon.
FAQs
Argon is used as an inert gas in MIG welding. Because it supplements other gases.
100% Argon is usable in MIG welding mild steel. But it will not be the strongest of welds. But if used with other gases the result will be different.
Verdict
MIG welding with 100% Argon has many similarities with MIG welding with other gases. The welder must be aware of the basic process steps, including the use of the gas cylinder, regulators, and the use of proper shielding.
After completing the MIG welding having 100 argon procedure, you will be able to weld effectively and safely with this type of welding process. In addition, you will be able to create a strong weld joint using this method.
Read More: Why Is Mild Steel Good For Welding?