Safety Measures for MIG Welders

MIG or Gas Metal Arc Welding (GMAW) is a popular welding process preferred by many professionals and hobbyists alike. The process uses a bare metal filler wire of the same metal as the one being welded. The wire also acts as the electrode and is fed through a hand held torch unit. The welding bead is shielding with an inert gas, usually argon, though CO2 is also commonly used. The wire receives the current from a welder which creates the arc.

The process of MIG welding can be risky for the user if they are not well–protected. Some of the principal points and precautions for safety are mentioned here.

Common Safety Measures

• The area should be cleared of unauthorized personnel.
• The user should position the flash blind to protect nearby personnel.
• Always check the cable position to avoid sparks and metal splatter to avoid fires.
• Equipment settings should be checked properly.
• The risk of fumes and smoke can be reduced with a shielding gas with a higher percentage of Argon. The gas should be used with a pulse-spray mode of transfer.
• The user should occasionally check that the wire feeder is working properly.
• One should avoid pushing the gun into the arc.
• One should keep the nozzle free from spatter. Spatter can build up on the nozzle and electrically connect the insulated nozzle to the contact tube. Use a nozzle cleaner on the nozzle, gun, and the contact tube end. No matter what happens, one should not clean the nozzle by pounding it on any surface. It can severely damage the nozzle.

Apart from basic precautions user should also keep in mind gas cylinder safety and fire safety measures in mind. Another overlooked safety point is the welder itself. Proper use can extend the life of a welder by several years.

• Always use the correct rated voltages/currents
• Ensure that the welder is well ventilated. Even modern welders can become severely hot under load, particularly when used for extended periods.
• Always keep the welder level.
• In welders with gas-through setups, ensure that the cables are connected properly, sealed, and insulated.

Personal safety is the duty of the individual. Users should ensure they are wearing appropriate protective gear and work in a well-ventilated area.

About the Author:

Kym Morgan is the marketing director of eWelders.com.au, a leading online specialty welding site in Australia. They sell a massive range of MIG Welders, TIG Welders, ARC Welders, Inverter Welders, Multi-Purpose Welders, High Function TIG Welders, AC/DC TIG Inverters, Spot Welders and Engine Driven Welders in Australia. Their mission at eWelders.com.au is to gather Australia’s best range of welders and put them under one roof.