MAG – Metal Active Gas (135/138) welding.

12.04.2023

Welding is one of the most important processes in metal fabrication. It involves the fusion of metals using intense heat, producing a bond that’s strong and durable. For many years, the MAG gas metal arc process (135) has been the go-to welding method for fabricators all over the world. This process has undergone significant research and development, leading to numerous improvements that result in high-quality welds for various fabrication projects.

The MAG gas metal arc process (135) is a welding process that uses a consumable filler wire fed continuously from a spool through a handheld torch. Welding takes place when the wire comes into contact with the base metal, creating an electrical circuit that melts the wire, the base metal, or both. The process is called MAG because it uses a mixture of argon and carbon dioxide gases to shield the weld from contaminants in the air.

Benefits of using the MAG welding method

The MAG gas metal arc process (135) has numerous benefits that make it a preferred welding method for many fabricators.

First, it's relatively easy to learn and operate, making it an ideal option for new welders.
Additionally, it produces high-quality welds that are uniform and consistent.
The process also allows for welding to be performed in a variety of positions, including vertical, horizontal, and overhead, depending on the needs of the project.

Improvements

Over the years, research and development have led to significant improvements in the MAG gas metal arc process. One of the most notable advancements is the introduction of pulsed welding technology, which allows for greater control over the amount of heat input into the weld. As a result, fabricators can produce high-quality welds with less distortion and warping. Moreover, the use of inverter-based power sources has resulted in more efficient and reliable machines that reduce the likelihood of downtime and maintenance costs.

Tips for welders

Several tips that welders can follow to achieve successful welds with the MAG gas metal arc process (135):

First, it's essential to select the correct welding wire for the job. This decision should be based on the type of metal being welded, the thickness of the metal, and the type of joint being created.
Second, welders must ensure that the welding torch is positioned at the correct distance from the base material to avoid splattering.
Third, they may need to adjust the welding parameters (such as voltage, wire speed, and gas flow) to ensure that the weld is strong and consistent.

Conclusion:

The MAG gas metal arc process (135) remains the leading welding method in the fabrication industry, providing numerous benefits to fabricators and welders alike. Its long history has been marked by ongoing research and development, resulting in greater efficiency, reliability, and quality in the welding process. With proper training and attention to detail, welders can produce successful welds that meet the unique needs of any fabrication project.