Gas Metal Arc Welding (GMAW)

Gas Metal Arc Welding (GMAW) is also known as Metal Inert Gas Welding
(MIG welding). In this process, consumable electrode is used in the form of
wire and an inert gas such as Argon, Helium, Carbon dioxide or a mixture of
them are used. These inert gases shield the weld pool from atmospheric
contamination. The shielding gas is allowed to flow through the weld gun.
Electrode of MIG welding (which comes in wire form) is fed continuously, at a
fixed rate, by a feeding mechanism. The wire is consumed during the process
and thereby provides filler metal. This process is illustrated in the below
Figure.

Selection of inert gas should be done with lots of care. A mixture of CO2 and
Argon is considered as a good combination. 75% Argon + 25% CO2 (very
popularly known as “75/25” or “C25”) works as the best “all purpose” shielding
gas for carbon steel. It results in least amount of spatter and proper weld
bead.

100% carbon dioxide yields deeper penetration, but extra caution needed
since it may increase the amount of spatters.
Please watch this video lecture for a better
understanding

https://youtu.be/_GyqVyPSq9k