MIG Welding VS. MAG Welding: What is the differences?

We made a detailed comparison of MIG Welding and TIG Welding in the last article, and now we will compare the similarities and differences of another two welding processes under gas metal arc welding (GMAW): MIG welding VS. MAG Welding and tell you how to choose the right shielding gas.

CONTENT：

I. MIG and MAG Welding.

II. Similarities of MIG and MAG Welding. 

III. Differences Between MIG and MAG Welding.

IV. Shielding Gas Selection in MIG and MAG Welding.

V. MIG and MAG Welder.

I. MIG and MAG Welding.

1) MIG Welding stands for metal inert gas welding, uses inert gases such as pure nitrogen, argon, and helium or mixtures of these gases as shielding gases to protect the weld from oxidation and contamination, and is commonly used in welding various metals such as carbon steel, stainless steel, and aluminum.

2) MAG Welding stands for metal active gas welding, uses a mixture of active gases (like oxygen and carbon dioxide) and inert gases (like nitrogen, argon, and helium) as shielding gases to protect the weld from oxidation and contamination, and is widely used in welding low-alloyed construction steels and thin and medium-thick sheet metal.

II. Similarities of MIG and MAG Welding. 

1) Welding Process: Both MIG and MAG welding is arc welding processes, and use a similar welding process where a wire electrode is continuously fed into the welding area, which melts and joins the metals together.

2) Shielding Gas: Both MIG and MAG welding requires a shielding gas to protect the welding area from atmospheric contamination. In MIG welding, an inert gas such as argon is used, while in MAG welding, an active gas such as carbon dioxide is used.

3) Equipment: Both MIG and MAG welding requires a power source, a wire feed unit, and a welding gun.

4) High Efficiency: Both welding processes can weld quickly and efficiently, and are used in a variety of applications in the manufacturing industry.

5) Versatility: Both MIG and MAG welding is versatile welding processes that can be used to weld a wide range of metals such as steel, aluminum, and stainless steel.

6) Low Spatter: Both welding processes produce minimal spatter during the welding process, resulting in a cleaner and smoother weld.

III. Differences Between MIG and MAG Welding.

IV. Shielding Gas Selection in MIG and MAG Welding.

As the main difference between MIG welding and MAG welding is the shielding gas, the selection of shielding gas is of great importance in the welding process. Selecting the right shielding gas helps protect the welding area from atmospheric contamination, ensuring a stable arc and high-quality weld. To select the appropriate shielding gas for your welding application, the factors to be considered are as follows:

1) Welding Material: The base material to be welded is the primary factor in selecting the appropriate shielding gas for MIG and MAG welding. For example, carbon steel can use either an inert gas such as argon or a mixture of active gases such as carbon dioxide and argon in MAG welding. Aluminum and other non-ferrous metals require an inert gas such as argon in MIG welding.

2) Welding Process: The welding process to be used is another important factor in selecting the appropriate shielding gas for MIG and MAG welding. For example, MIG welding generally uses an inert gas such as argon, while MAG welding typically uses a mixture of active gases such as carbon dioxide and argon.

3) Welding Position: The position of the weld, such as vertical, overhead, or flat, can also influence the selection of shielding gas for MIG and MAG welding. Active gases such as carbon dioxide are often used in flat position welding, while inert gases such as argon are better suited for vertical and overhead positions.

4) Welding Application: The specific application of the weld can also influence the selection of shielding gas for MIG and MAG welding. For example, the automotive industry often uses a mixture of active gases such as carbon dioxide and argon in MAG welding to increase welding speed and productivity.

5) Welding Cost: The cost of the shielding gas is also a consideration when selecting the appropriate gas for MIG and MAG welding. Inert gases such as argon are generally more expensive than active gases such as carbon dioxide, so cost may be a factor in selecting the appropriate gas.

V. Attentions of MIG and MAG Welding.

To better perform your MIG and MAG welding, here are some attentions for you to keep in mind:

1) Welding Safety: Wear appropriate protective gear, such as a welding helmet, gloves, and protective clothing, and work in a well-ventilated area.

2) Welding Preparation: Clean the welding surface thoroughly to remove any contaminants, and make sure the metal is dry and free of rust, grease, and other debris.

3) Welding Parameters: Set welding parameters such as voltage, current, and wire feed speed properly according to the type and thickness of the metal to be welded.

4) Shielding Gas: Select appropriate shielding gas based on the base material, the welding process, and the welding position.

5) Wire Selection: Select the wire diameter, type, and composition based on the type and thickness of the metal to be welded and the welding process to be used.

6) Welding Technique: Maintain a steady welding speed and angle, and make sure the wire tip is positioned correctly in relation to the welding surface.

7) Post-Welding: After welding, remove any slag or spatter and inspect the weld for defects.

After knowing the differences between MIG and MAG welding, you may need to buy a MIG welder or MAG welder to start welding, if so, you can contact Megmeet Welding Technology (one of the best CO2/MIG/MAG/TIG welding machines designers and manufacturers in China) to choose the suitable one based on your needs and budget. If you want to learn more welding tips, you can collect Megmeet News Center Page or follow our Linkedin page.