How to Weld Pipe With MIG Welder

MIG welding can be used for multiple types of fusing metals.

MIG welding, or better known as wire welding, is used for many types of welding. The MIG welder outputs a small thin wire while fusing it with gas to bond with the existing metal to create a new holding point. Whether you're fusing two pipes together or repairing a pipe, the method is the same. Depending on the width of the pipe and the conditions of the welding area, this project should take around 20 minutes to get a clean weld to hold the pipe or repair it.

Things You'll Need

• MIG Welding unit (gas included)
• Welding helmet
• Welding gloves
• Wire brush

Instructions

1. Plug the welding unit into a 220-watt outlet. Flip on the welding unit using the "On" switch that looks like a standard light switch. Open the gas valve by loosening it 2 turns, this will automatically feed into the MIG welding unit when you weld.

2. Attach the ground clamp, which looks like a clamp from a jump-starting kit for cars, to the metal you're going to weld.

3. Put on your welding gloves and helmet and grab the welding gun. Stand or kneel over the area you're going to weld and hold the tip of the gun an inch away from the area.

4. Squeeze the trigger and the welding will begin. Make slow straight passes along the area you want to weld, keeping the tip of the gun an inch away from the area being welded. If you get too close, the gun will fuse itself to the metal. After each pass, let the metal cool before you take another swipe at it. This will let the weld settle and prepare for the next one. Once you're done filling the gap or repairing the area, let it cool for five minutes.

5. Brush vigorously on the area of your weld with the wire brush. The MIG weld creates a thin shell on the top of the weld because of fusing of metal and gas. The wire brush is there to remove the shell and reveal an aesthetically pleasing weld.

Tips & Warnings

• Make sure you always wear protective equipment such as gloves and a helmet.

References

• Wire Welding Tips