MIG - GMAW

MIG Startup Procedure

1. Confirm MIG Torch cable is connected to positive (+)

2. Confirm Work clamp is connected to negative(-) and attached to table

3. Open cylinder valve all the way.  Argon cylinders have a back seat type of valve.

4. Set MIG torch in holder and confirm button is not pressed 

5. Turn machine on

6. Check blue process selector light is on "MIG Steel C25"

7. Turn regulator adjusting handle until gage reads about 20 CFH

8. While pressing torch trigger, adjust regulator to desired flow.  Typically 20 - 25 CFH

9. You should hear some gas flow when you press the torch trigger

10. Check machine settings for wire size and adjust voltage & WFS based on material thickness.  [see preceding section]

MIG Shutdown Procedure

1. Close gas cylinder valve (righty-tighty.....)

2. Press torch trigger 5-6 times until both gages read zero

3. Back out regulator adjusting handle (do NOT tighten)

4. Shutoff machine

5. Wrap torch cable loosely - use big loops to avoid damaging the liner

MIG Variables

Voltage

The voltage used influences the bead height, base metal penetration, and tie in at the toes

Wire Feed Speed (WFS) 

The general rule is 1 amp of current for every thousandths inch of metal thickness you are welding.  That is, when welding a 1/8" (0.125) thick plate the guideline is 125 amps.

Wire feed rate is specified in the units of inches per minute (ipm)

• 0.030" wire, use 2" ipm / amp.  That is, 125 amps x 2" = 250 ipm

• 0.035" wire, use 1.6" ipm/amp.  That is, 125 amps x 1.6 = 200 ipm

Source: https://www.millerwelds.com/resources/article-library/miggmaw-101-setting-the-correct-parameters

Stick Out

Use your MIG pliers to trim the wire stick out to 1/4" to 3/8" maximum.  Work to keep this length as you weld.

WFS & Volts Guidelines for the Multi-Matic 215