MIG welding mild steel is one of the most popular forms of welding in the world today. It’s a strong, reliable, and cost-effective method of connection, and can even be used for decorative purposes.
But one of the often overlooked components to a successful MIG welding is selecting the right shielding gas. With over 160 million tonnes of mild steel welded annually and over 2000 active shielding gases in the marketplace, finding the best fit for your project can be a daunting task. That’s why we’ve done some research to get you the answers to “What is the best gas for MIG Welding Mild Steel?
”. So strap in and hang on, because the next few minutes are going to change the way you weld forever.
What is the Best Gas for MIG Welding Mild Steel?
MIG (Metal Inert Gas) welding is a widely used form of welding which uses electricity to melt a metal joint and transfer the welding material. Often referred to as a ‘wire-feed’ process, MIG welding requires the use of a shielding gas for protection during the process.The type of shielding gas used will depend on the base material being welded, particularly when welding mild steel.
Unique Properties of Mild Steel
Mild steel is a widely used, cost-effective form of steel that is relatively easy to weld.It has a low carbon content and combines strength and hardness with a high degree of ductility. This allows it to be easily bent and shaped. Mild steel also has excellent fatigue resistance, which means it can withstand a number of cycles of loading and unloading without failure.
Mild steel is used in a number of applications, from car bodywork to engineering components.
The Role of Shielding Gas
Shielding gas is used in MIG welding to help form an arc between the metal joint being welded and the workpiece.The gas also helps to create a narrow, concentrated arc which can result in a high-quality finish. The type of shielding gas used is important for a number of reasons. An incorrect shielding gas can cause excessive spatter and porosity, poor (undercutted) fusion and poor penetration.
Which Gas Should be Used for Welding Mild Steel?
Mild steel is best welded with a shielding gas that contains 90-93% Argon, 5-5% Carbon Dioxide and 2-5% oxygen. This mixture of gases is best at providing adequate protection to the arc and will also allow the metal to be evenly melted.