MIG Welding

Instruction

  1. Equipment Overview:
    • Point of Operation: The point of operation is at the tip of the welding gun
    • Pinch/Nip points: No obvious pinch points
    • Unguarded rotating parts: None
    • Flying chips/sparks: The welding process creates sparks and extreme heat
  2. Preparation:
    • Complete required orientations, welding training, and sign into the metal shop log
    • Ensure TA or staff knows in advance welding will take place
    • Inspect the welder and ensure all components are in place.
    • Verify that flammable materials are removed from the area.
    • Ensure surrounding area is clean, clear, and free of anything that may interfere with operation of the tool
    • Set up the welding area with proper ventilation and safety barriers.
    • Check the gas supply and adjust the flow rate as needed.
  3. Operation:
    • Ensure material is proper to be welded, has been cleaned and ground to a suitable prepared
    • finish, and has been ground or chamfered correctly to accept the weld
    • Position the material and secure the grounding clamp.
    • Turn on fume hood
    • Turn on the welder and set the appropriate settings for the material.
    • Weld using steady movements and appropriate techniques.
    • Monitor the weld puddle to ensure consistent penetration and bead appearance.
    • Adjust the welder settings as needed for different material thicknesses.
  4. Finishing:
    • Turn off the welder and allow it to cool.
    • Remove the material and inspect the weld for strength and appearance.
    • Wait 20 minutes of hot work check before leaving the immediate area
    • Clean the welding area and dispose of any scrap materials.
    • Record the completion of your task in the metal shop log.

Product List

  • Steel
  • Stainless Steel
  • Aluminum is possible but must use a special gun and gas.
    • All welding of aluminum must be done with a trained TA present.
  • Never attempt to weld galvanized steel
    • The fumes from this operation are very dangerous
  • Never attempt to weld dirty or painted metal
    • Unkown substance is potentially combustible or emit toxic fumes when heated in the welding process.

Required Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)

  • Eye Protection: Safety Glasses
  • Head Protection: Welding Helment
  • Body Coverings: Non-Retardant jacket
  • Hand Coverings: Heavy leather gloves
  • Shoe: Heavy Footwear

Engineering Controls

  • Welding fume hood
  • Proper lighting for clear visibility of the work area
  • Fire extinguishers nearby
  • Remove any loose clothing, accessories, and tie back any long hair
  • Remove any jewelry
  • Always be aware where the off switch and how to best access it if needed

Emergency Response

  • Injury: Seek medical attention immediately.
  • Eye Injury: Flush eyes with water for at least 15 minutes, seek immediate medical attention.
  • Fire: Use a fire extinguisher suitable for electrical fires and evacuate the area if necessary.