The Gas Metal Arc Welding process (GMAW), commonly referred to as the Metal Inert Gas process (MIG welding), is an arc welding process which incorporates the automatic feeding of a continuous, consumable wire
electrode that is shielded by an externally supplied gas. Process control and function are achieved through three basis elements of equipment: the gun and cable assembly, wire feed unit and MIG welder. The wire feeder and MIG welder may be combined into one unit. Shielding gas for the MIG welding process is typically carbon dioxide, a mix of argon and carbon dioxide or an argon/oxygen mix.
The MIG welding process produces high quality welds, has all position welding capability, and can be used on materials of various types and thicknesses. Additionally, clean-up is fast since there is little to no slag and low spatter.