11 replies to this topic

[JD8891]

Hi all, Was just wondering if its possible to use a normal Mig welder with gasless wire? I know the tip would have to be the right size, but is there any reason why I couldn't use it and leave the gas turned off?

Many thanks

JD

[R1mini]

Yes you can, modern gasless machine run a reversed polarity, but gasless migs didn't exist when gasless wire came out and it was used in a normal mig machine. I used to keep a reel on board the van if I run out of gas on a job

Cheers
David

[JD8891]

Cheers, thought it might be a cheaper way to weld outside.

Many Thanks

JD

[Deathrow]

You have to reverse the polarity I believe.

[JD8891]

Anybody else because I don't want to buy a new welder if I can help it.

Many thanks

JD

[Shifty]

You have to reverse the polarity I believe.

I'm no expert but I think you stand a very good chance of damaging a "Normal" Mig by doing this..

A gasless Welder is designed to have this facility, a standard mig isn't!!

[JD8891]

You have to reverse the polarity I believe.

I'm no expert but I think you stand a very good chance of damaging a "Normal" Mig by doing this..

A gasless Welder is designed to have this facility, a standard mig isn't!!

I guessed that, but was wondering if anyone has experience of using a relatively low powered mig gas unit using gasless wire with out reversing the polarity? I'm getting tired of the wind blowing away the gas but if it means having to buy a new welder i'll just put up with it me thinks lol

Many thanks

JD

[Ethel]

I'd think reverse polarity is essential for the flux to work properly. Gasless migs have reversible torch and earth terminals for using them with and without gas. You may be able to reverse the terminals on a standard mig.


http://www.mig-welding.co.uk/

[R1mini]

I'm telling you, gasless welders didn't exist when gasless wire came out, the stuff was used in normal migs because that's all there was!! for at least 10 years I know of

Cheers
David

[cookie4343]

Ive used flux cored wire in my mig/gas welder with no problems but in my personal opinion not as good as normal wire with gas althou this might be because it was the first time i ever used this type of wire its totaly different.

[R1mini]

Gasless\flux cored wire either can be used, it's no where near as good as the proper shielding gas with conventional mig wire, I certainly agree with that

Cheers
David

[JD8891]

Sorted then, thanks very much guys, I'll get a reel and tips and give it a shot.

Many Thanks

JD