8-2. Typical MIG Process Control Settings
NOTE
These settings are guidelines only. Material and wire type, joint design, fitup, position, shielding gas, etc. affect settings. Test welds to be sure they comply to specifications.
Material thickness determines weld |
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parameters. | 1/8 or | Convert Material |
| .125 in | |
| Thickness to | |
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| Amperage (A) |
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| (.001 in = 1 ampere) |
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| .125 in = 125 A |
Wire Size | Amperage Range |
.035 in |
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.023 in | 30 − 90 A |
.030 in | 40 − 145 A |
.035 in | 50 − 180 A |
| Wire | Recommendation |
| Wire Speed | ||
| Size |
| (Approx.) | |||
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| .023 in | 3.5 in per ampere | 3.5 x 125 A = 437 ipm | |||
| .030 in | 2 in per ampere | 2 x 125 A = 250 ipm | |||
| .035 in | 1.6 in per ampere | 1.6 x 125 A = 200 ipm | |||
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Low voltage: wire stubs into work
High voltage: arc is unstable (spatter)
Set voltage midway between high/low voltage.
Select Wire Size
Select Wire Speed (Amperage)
125 A based on 1/8 in material thickness
ipm = inch per minute
Select Voltage
Wire speed (amperage) controls weld penetration
(wire speed =
Voltage controls height and width of weld bead.
Ref. 804