Shielding gas is used in MIG and TIG welding to protect the weld from contamination. The gas mixture required depends on the type of welding being performed. Keeping the welding gun close to the work piece and following the manufacturer’s recommendations for gas flow is important. Cleaning the welding gun nozzle is necessary to remove welding spatter.
A shielding gas is used during wire welding. Unlike arc welding, which uses welding rods covered with a flux coating, metal inert gas (MIG) tungsten inert gas (TIG) flux welding uses a shielding gas to protect the weld from contamination as it forms and cools. Typically a mixture of carbon monoxide and argon gas, the welder delivers just the right amount of shielding gas through the welding gun when needed. An advantage of using a shielding gas when welding is that there is no slag left on the weld requiring chipping and cleaning like that found on an arc weld.
When a new wire welder is purchased, it does not come with a shielding gas tank. This must be purchased or leased from a gas supplier. Most welding supply stores also sell welding gas and will be able to assist the buyer in purchasing a tank. The type and mixture of shielding gas required will be determined by the type of welding that will be performed using the gas. For most general welding requirements, argon gas will suffice. There are some welding situations, such as welding aluminum, that require a special gas mixture.
When welding with a shielding gas, it is important to keep the welding gun close to the work piece. The gas stream from the nozzle must be kept in contact with the weld pool. If the gas is not held close to the puddle, a weak and uneven weld could result. Operators should check with the manufacturer’s recommendations found in the owner’s manual regarding proper gas tank regulator settings. This will ensure proper gas flow during the welding procedure.
When welding outdoors in windy conditions, it may be necessary to increase the gas flow from the welding gun. Occasionally, wind can blow gas away from the weld puddle, causing weld contamination. This condition is rare, however, and can be corrected by holding the welding gun a little closer to the weld puddle. The shielding gas need not remain concentrated on the weld for more than a fraction of a second during the weld formation.
When the welding gun nozzle gets dirty with welding spatter, it needs to be cleaned. A wire brush can be used to remove most of the weld spatter from the nozzle. Stubborn splashes can be removed with a small screwdriver.
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