Ive heard that pulsed MIG weld beads look good. Why is that?
Pulsed MIG provides good bead appearance because the tiny molten droplets being transferred do not create spatter. Also, because the weld puddle cools in-between pulses, it freezes faster. The puddle is less likely to sag or look excessively convex when welding out-of-position. Operators have so much control over the weld pool with pulsed MIG that they can create beads with a TIG-like appearance. In fact, manufacturers currently TIG welding might consider pulsed MIG as a way to increase out-put while satisfying bead appearance and Quality control demands. Q: Can pulsed MIG increase productivity? A: Yes, in many applications. Compared to short circuit or spray transfer, pulsed MIG often permits using a larger diameter wire and/or faster wire feed speeds without adding excess heat. This increases travel speed and/or deposition rates. For example, one fabricator welding lap joints on thin gauge aluminum increased travel speed from 105 to 144 in./min. after switching from short circuit tra