6-2.
Typical MIG Process Control Settings
NOTE
Material thickness determines weld
parameters.
Wire
Size
.023 in
.030 in
.035 in
Wire speed (amperage) controls weld pe-
netration (wire speed = burn-off rate)
OM-194 199 Page 21
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.
Wire Size
.035 in
.023 in
.030 in
.035 in
Recommendation
3.5 in per ampere
2 in per ampere
1.6 in per ampere
Low voltage: wire stubs into work
High voltage: arc is unstable (spatter)
Set voltage midway between high/low voltage.
Voltage controls height and width of
weld bead.
1/8 or
.125 in
Amperage Range
30 – 90 A
40 – 145 A
50 – 180 A
Wire Speed
(Approx.)
3.5 x 125 A = 437 ipm
2 x 125 A = 250 ipm
1.6 x 125 A = 200 ipm
Convert Material
Thickness to
Amperage (A)
(.001 in = 1 ampere)
.125 in = 125 A
Select Wire Size
Select Wire Speed
(Amperage)
125 A based on 1/8 in
material thickness
ipm = inch per minute
Select Voltage
Ref. ST-801 865