How to Use an MIG Welder

Welding is an important component of any metalwork job; the skill of welding can be highly valuable to learn because of the high cost to have repair and welding done. The cost of welding work ranges from $25 to $50 an hour. MIG welding is easy to learn and is fun to use once you know the proper techniques.

Things You'll Need

• Welding helmet Protective eyewear Leather gloves Pliers Wire brush Safety clothing

Instructions

1. Plug your MIG welder into a 220V outlet and then plug in your ground cord and wire feed welder cord into the welder.

2. Install the welding feed wire into the MIG welder. You can purchase these rolls of welding feed wire at most hardware stores or welding supply shops. The wire spool mounts in the base of the welder and the end of the feed wire is clicked into the feed wire welder cord hole for future wire feeds.

3. Read the MIG welder operator's manual. Learn about the proper voltage settings and wire feed rates for different welding projects. Adjust the voltage and wire feed knob to the preferred settings. Switch on your welder.

4. Clean the surface to be welded with a wire brush.

5. Clamp the grounding clamp cord from the welder onto the piece of steel to be welded.

6. Position the wire feed welder handle near where the weld will start and pull your helmet over your face. Keep the wire feed about a centimeter or closer above the steel you are welding or else the wire will stick to your weld and welding will cease until you chip or bend the wire free.

7. Pull the wire feed trigger and begin welding. Weave the wire feed from side-to-side and work your way down the seam you are welding. Always keep the arc a half a centimeter or less away from the piece of steel you are welding.

Tips & Warnings

• Safety first! Wear proper welding eyewear, welding helmet, long clothing, leather gloves and work in a well-ventilated area to prevent fumes and gas build-up. Have a fire extinguisher handy or a bucket of water in case of a fire from the sparks.