Which gas mixture is used in MIG welding for its cost-effectiveness and speed?

The gas mixture commonly used in MIG welding for its cost-effectiveness and speed is a combination of carbon dioxide (CO2) and argon. This mixture is favored because CO2 serves as a reactive gas that enhances the arc stability and improves penetration while being economically advantageous, as it is less expensive compared to pure argon. The addition of argon helps to stabilize the arc and improve the overall quality of the weld, especially when welding materials such as steel.

In MIG welding, the use of CO2 and argon enables a seamless operation, yielding a desirable balance between speed, weld quality, and expense, making it a widely preferred choice in various welding applications.