Q: What is meant by “wire-feed” welding?
A: Wire-feed welding (MIG welding) has become popular over the last few decades because you can pick up a $300 MIG welder at your local hardware store, plug it into a 110V outlet in your shop and start welding. Officially known as GMAW (gas metal arc welding), it is the easiest kind of welding to learn. The filler rod or “wire” becomes the electrode and melts to create the weld. The machines aren’t appropriate for all applications due to the flux-core filler wire that’s limited to 3/16-inch and thinner metals. However, for building a barbecue grill, making shop equipment or ornamental iron, the entry-level wire-feed machines should get the job done.
