GMAW – Mig Welding History

Introduction

Gas Metal Arc Welding (GMAW), also known as Metal Inert Gas (MIG) welding, is a type of welding that uses an electric arc to melt and join metal pieces together. In this article, we will explore the history of GMAW – Mig welding, including its origins, development, and modern-day applications.

Origins of GMAW – Mig Welding

The roots of GMAW – Mig welding can be traced back to the early 20th century when metal arc welding was first introduced. However, it wasn't until the 1940s that GMAW was developed as a process in its own right. The original GMAW process used a bare wire electrode and a shielding gas to protect the weld from atmospheric contamination.

Development of GMAW – Mig Welding

The development of GMAW – Mig welding continued throughout the mid-20th century. In the 1950s, the use of a copper-coated wire electrode was introduced, which helped to improve the stability of the arc and reduce spatter. In the 1960s, the use of a reactive gas shield, such as carbon dioxide, was introduced, which further improved the quality of the weld.

Modern-Day Applications of GMAW – Mig Welding

Today, GMAW – Mig welding is widely used in a variety of applications across many industries, including:

• Automotive manufacturing
• Construction
• Shipbuilding
• Aerospace
• General metal fabrication

The use of GMAW – Mig welding has many advantages, including:

• High welding speeds
• Good penetration
• Low hydrogen content
• Good weld quality
• Easy to learn and use

Conclusion

GMAW – Mig welding has a rich history that spans more than a century. From its humble beginnings as an offshoot of metal arc welding to its modern-day applications in a wide range of industries, GMAW – Mig welding has become a vital tool for joining metal pieces together. As technology continues to advance, we can expect to see even more improvements in the GMAW – Mig welding process and its applications in the years to come.