What Is Gas Metal Arc Welding?

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Gas Metal Arc Welding (GMAW) is a versatile and reliable welding process used in countless industries across the globe. Reaching peak usage in the early 1950’s, GMAW has become the most widely used industrial welding process today, accounting for up to 45% of all welding done in the world. Its easy deployment and reliable weld make it a great process for first-time users and experienced welders alike.

In this article, we’ll take a closer look at GMAW and analyze its many advantages.

What is Gas Metal Arc Welding?

Gas Metal Arc Welding, also known as GMAW or MIG (Metal Inert Gas) welding, is one of the most commonly used welding processes today.

It offers a fast, efficient way to join two metal surfaces, such as aluminum, stainless steel and carbon steel.

History

Gas Metal Arc Welding is a type of arc welding, which was first developed in the late 1920s. It was originally known as metal inert gas welding or MIG welding and is one of the most popular arc welding processes.

How it Works

GMAW involves the use of a flux-cored metal fill rod and a metal-filled wire, which are fed through a welding torch. When the metal wire is fed through the welding torch, an electric arc is generated and the heat produced melts the base metal and the filler material.

As the molten metal cools, the two metals form a strong, strong bond.

Advantages and Disadvantages of GMAW

  • Advantages:
    • GMAW is fast and efficient, which makes it ideal for large production and fabrication projects
    • The process is highly controllable and can be used to achieve accurate welds
    • Ability to weld materials of different thicknesses
    • Minimal slag formation allows for an aesthetically pleasing weld bead
    • Less heat generated means less distortion
  • Disadvantages:
    • Welding consumables are expensive and need to be replaced frequently
    • High welding current produces high levels of spatter
    • High skills are required to operate the welding machine
    • The process is not suitable for very thin materials

Conclusion

Gas Metal Arc Welding is one of the most popular welding processes today. It is a fast and efficient way of welding various materials including aluminum, stainless steel and carbon steel.

Despite the high cost of welding consumables, GMAW is a great way to weld materials of different thicknesses and achieve accurate welds with minimal distortion. References:https://www. welding-advisers.

com/gas-metal-arc-welding. htmlhttps://en.

wikipedia. org/wiki/Gas_metal_arc_weldinghttps://www. uh. edu/technology/welding/gma-what-is-gas-metal-arc-welding/https://www. generawelding. com/gma-welding/

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