I run Mig and Tig (actually according to AWS it's GMAW & GTAW) in my
business. As much as I love Tig welding and use it for everything except
fabricated steel structural items, I would have to say that Tig requires a
degree of manual dexterity that for some people is impossible to get the
hang of. Mig is much easier to learn to do. I agree with the statement
above about spending alittle more for a 'name' brand. I would also add that
you should not be scared of going to a real welding supplier. They deal
with ALL kinds of customers and can be very helpful, not to mention that
they may give you a few lessons.
You can do away with the shielding gas all together by using flux cored
wire, but I never really liked it. As far as Mig shielding gas goes,
straight CO2 is just fine for steel (know anyone with an old soda machine
bottle???). I use the 'tri-mixes' that being Argon, CO2, and a smig of O2
because I get into a lot of spray arcing which is way beyond what a small
hobby/shop machine can do.
If anyone is interested in trying Tig, you can attach a Tig torch to a
regular arc welding supply, but you have to scratch start the arc. In case
your not aware a Mig power supply will not do Tig or stick welding but a Tig
supply can be used for regular stick welding and not Mig.
That is all
je
p.s. Welding threads on usenet and lists always get lots of activity, and
opinions!
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