Posted on May 25, 2021
Correct set-up and maintenance of your Mig torch will help maximize productivity and weld quality, and ensure that your gun and consumables last as long as possible.
1. Check Your Mig Torch Before You Start
Before you begin welding, make a quick check that consumables are seated properly, that the neck is tight, and that the wire feeder connection is secure. Make sure the trigger is operating smoothly and do a quick visual check that the handle and neck have no damage – damage can cause an electric shock!
2. Inspect Consumables Throughout The Day
Spatter build up inside the nozzle can affect gas flow, so usually you will need to clean your nozzle multiple times a day. Make sure to check the contact tip at the same time – it’s common to wait until problems become apparent with the weld to change the tip, but catching the issue before the weld is affected will benefit productivity. Take this opportunity to make sure that connections between the neck, diffuser and contact tip are still secure.
3. Take Care Of Your Mig Torch When Welding
Overheating causes many problems. Be aware of your torch’s duty cycle. Use the proper wire stick out and be mindful of the distance between the contact tip and the workpiece. Keeping heat down will reduce the amount of vibration and burn back.
4. Don’t Forget About Your Liner
While liners don’t directly affect welding quality, short or badly fitted liners result in burn back. If the liner is the wrong length it can cause oscillations in arc length as well. Make sure to insert the liner whilst the torch cable is straight to reduce risk of twists or kinks. Use compressed air during liner and wire changeover to clean out any blockages and debris that might have accumulated during torch use.
5. Cable Management Is Crucial
Poor power cable management can affect performance and cause damage. If the cable does become damaged it can require a full replacement of the Mig torch. Keep the cable straight and kink-free, and don’t use it to pull the machine around.
You don’t need to spend hours on Mig gun maintenance, but a regular routine involving a few minutes here and there can save you time and money in the long run. By making sure that your Mig gun is operating at it’s best you’ll find it easier to maintain high-quality welds (reducing the need for rework or scrappage), you’ll help to extend the service life of your Mig gun and reduce consumable usage, and also avert more serious equipment failures.
Our Mig guns and parts are designed for longevity, with clever features such as screwless design solutions and easy service. Design and engineering excellence are at the core of everything we do. Our fanatical attention to detail ensures every Mig welding torch we produce is worthy of the Parker Torchology name. For more information visit www.parkertorchology.com