Welding TypesMIG (Metal Inert Gas) MIG welding is one of the more simple welding methods as it does not require high skill to achieve results. The process is semi automatic because an electrode wire and gas is automatically fed through the gun at a user defined speed or pressure when the operator pulls down the trigger, the electronic arc can also be user defined and carried out automatically on operation. MIG is a quick and easy form of welding, it is used often by robotics in automated production lines. MIG however does not offer the best penetration when welding therefore is not the best choice for use on thick plates where a strong weld is required.
Above: Mig Welder
MMA (Manual Metal Arc) This is a manual form of welding that requires a good level of skill to be fully utilized. The welding gun holds what are called welding rods and these come in various sizes which determine how large of a weld will be put down. These rods are a consumable electrode coated in flux, which when a current flows through will melt and vaporize the flux which acts as a gas shield for the weld as it is being laid. MMA can be used on a range of metals such as iron, steels, stainless steel, and can even be used on aluminium, and copper alloys.
Above: Arc Welder
TIG (Tungsten Inert Gas) TIG is a manual welding process where by a Tungsten electrode is used to produce the weld along with a shielding gas and often a metal filler. TIG is best used for thin sections of metals such as stainless steel, copper alloys, and aluminium. TIG is also much slower than MIG and MMA, it also requires a higher skill to master it. TIG Welds are generally very high quality and allows the welder greater control of the weld.
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