Welding is the process of fusing materials together, in this case metal. MIG stands for “metal inert gas,” which is a subset of gas metal arc welding (GMAW). The MIG welding process generates an electric arc between a consumable wire electrode and the workpiece metals, which heats the workpiece metals and causes them to melt and join. MIG welding is sometimes called “wire feed” welding because it employs a continuous consumable solid wire as both electrode and filler metal with an inert shielding gas to shield the arc and the weld pool. Shielding gas protects the weld from the ambient air, which contains elements that cause cracking, porosity and other defects.
MADE’s MIG welder is commonly used by members to make metal parts for furniture, home repairs, art fabrication, and more. Members often combine welding with woodworking to build mixed-media pieces, like live-edge wooden tables with metal hairpin legs. You can also utilize MADE’s waterjet and metal shop, after training in these areas. Our powder coating bay is another resource for metal workers in St. Louis, where you can apply a powder coated finish to your welded creations!
MIG welding is easy to learn, making it a perfect subject for MADE’s welding classes and training sessions. Run by local St. Louis welding experts, our classes and training sessions can be booked online now! Click here to take a welding class.