Recently, I learned welding as a little hobby. It was a choice that I have been thinking about for some time now, as I have been quite fascinated with the idea of learning how to weld. It was easily a fascinating idea for me because I really wanted to have a hobby that I can describe as useful and worthwhile. Far too many of my old hobbies, especially the ones that I have had since I was a kid, are really nothing more than games that make me use up whatever time I have in my hands. This time I wanted something that’s totally different, something that’s going to be useful, for a change.
When I decided that I was going to learn how to held, I also decided that I would try to learn all kinds of welding. As much as possible, that is since I know that it wouldn’t be that easy. Since I have no real background in welding, I know that I will not have that easy of a time in learning it all quickly. But I am already prepared for that, so my lessons in learning Metal Inert Gas (MIG), Shielded Metal Arc or stick welding, Tungsten Inert Gas (TIG) welding is something that I have well prepared myself for. Of all the processes, I have to say that I favor using MIG welding, well at least so far. That is why I am presently focusing on learning the best gas for MIG welder there is.
What’s the Best Gas?
It is pretty crucial for me to learn what the best gas is for MIG welding, since it will definitely affect the quality of my work. I had to resort to plenty of researching because I want to do it right, there should never be any compromise even though I guess I am allowed some room for mistake since I am only starting out when it comes to welding. My research has yielded some very important information though.
• For the gases that would be used, the choices would be between Argon, CO2 or a mixture between Argon and CO2. The mixture of Argon and CO2 components would be about 75 % for Argon and 25% for CO2. The welder will need to choose between the three, and also according to the kind of use that he will have for it.
• If you are going to weld aluminum, it would be best to use Argon that is 100%. Should you choose to weld steel, CO2 or an Argon/ CO2 mixture would be preferable. Again the desirable mixture would be 75% Argon and 25% CO2.
• About the results that you can expect from each welding gas, Argon that is 100% pure will yield a weld that is very pleasing to look at, while thick welds require CO2, as it provides the best penetration. But if you would like to see the best results then the combination of the two would be the best option available.