Gas Metal-Arc Welding (GMAW), also called Metal Inert Gas (MIG) welding,
shields the weld zone with an external gas such as argon, helium, carbon dioxide, or
gas mixtures. Deoxidizers present in the electrode can completely prevent
oxidation in the weld puddle, making multiple weld layers possible at the joint.
GMAW is a relatively simple, versatile, and economical welding apparatus to use. This is due to the factor of 2 welding productivity over SMAW processes. In addition, the temperatures involved in GMAW are relatively low and are therefore suitable for thin sheet and sections less than ¼ inch.
GMAW may be easily automated, and lends itself readily to robotic methods. It has virtually replaced SMAW in present-day welding operations in manufacturing plants.
