COMMON MIG PROBLEMS AND HOW TO FIX THEM

In Edmonton, a lot of welding happens in real conditions: road salt season, tight access, and metal that has seen salt, mud, and vibration. This guide explains Common MIG Problems and How to Fix Them in plain language so you know what matters in the field.

The goal

A repeatable routine beats guessing. The steps below keep your arc stable and your bead consistent.

Step-by-step

• Step 1: Confirm the base metal and thickness, then pick process and consumables
• Step 2: Prep to clean metal and set a stable ground connection
• Step 3: Set a starting parameter range and run a short test bead
• Step 4: Adjust one variable at a time until the arc and puddle stabilize
• Step 5: Keep torch angle and travel consistent to maintain shielding
• Step 6: Inspect the bead and protect the area from corrosion if needed

Watch-outs

• Wind and drafts can ruin gas coverage on MIG and TIG
• Dirty metal and coatings cause porosity and weak fusion
• Overheating thin metal leads to warping and burn-through
• If the part is safety-critical, follow an appropriate procedure

Note: This article is general information. Welding work should be done by trained professionals using correct equipment and following manufacturer instructions and jobsite safety rules.

Need mobile welding or fabrication in Edmonton or within 100 km? Call 780-233-8285 or request a quote from YEGWELD. Emergency service is available 24/7.

Edmonton checklist (quick and practical)

Small details save time and prevent defects, especially on Alberta metal that has seen road salt or vibration.

• Clean to bright metal where the weld will land
• Control wind if shielding gas is involved
• Keep your ground clamp on clean metal, close to the work
• Do a short test bead before committing to a long seam
• If the part is structural or safety-critical, do not guess

How to get better results fast

If you want a simple improvement loop, keep it boring and consistent. Change one thing, test, and lock it in.

• Tune wire speed and voltage together, not separately
• Keep stick-out consistent so the arc does not wander
• Hold a steady travel angle and do not whip randomly
• Clean between passes so you are not welding over trapped junk
• Inspect the toes and tie-in before you move on

Common questions

Why does it look good but fail later?

Most failures come from lack of fusion, contamination, or stress concentration. A strong repair addresses the cause, not only the crack.

Can it be welded outside in winter?

Often yes, but wind control and stable heat input matter. Sometimes moving inside is the smart choice.

Mistakes that create spatter, porosity, and rework

• Too long stick-out or poor gas coverage
• Dirty wire or contaminated base metal
• Incorrect voltage and wire speed pairing
• Bad torch angle that pushes gas away from the puddle
• Rushing travel speed and missing fusion at the toes

Edmonton checklist (quick and practical)

Small details save time and prevent defects, especially on Alberta metal that has seen road salt or vibration.

• Clean to bright metal where the weld will land
• Control wind if shielding gas is involved
• Keep your ground clamp on clean metal, close to the work
• Do a short test bead before committing to a long seam
• If the part is structural or safety-critical, do not guess

How to get better results fast

If you want a simple improvement loop, keep it boring and consistent. Change one thing, test, and lock it in.

• Tune wire speed and voltage together, not separately
• Keep stick-out consistent so the arc does not wander
• Hold a steady travel angle and do not whip randomly
• Clean between passes so you are not welding over trapped junk
• Inspect the toes and tie-in before you move on

This article is for informational purposes only and may contain inaccuracies. Always consult a certified welding professional before starting any project.