In the Workshop, Ep. 1: How to keep a MIG torch clean

Cleanliness is next to godliness when it comes to welding. In the first video of his new how-to series, In the Workshop, Detroit-based welder-fabricator ‪@JoshWelton‬ keeps it simple with the basics on how to keep a MIG welding torch clean.
Josh explains which tools you need to help keep your MIG torch clean and how it makes the welding process easier.
Stay tuned for more In the Workshop videos from Joshin his Detroit welding shop, as he offers up all kinds of helpful advice for welders. Whether it’s leading one-on-one workshops, helping college classes, or having a family member throw on a helmet and lay some beads, he loves teaching and seeing the light bulbs go on.
Have welding questions? Feedback?
Email Josh: [e-mail]
Follow Josh Welton on Instagram: @welderassassin
Follow The FABRICATOR:
Website: www.thefabricator.com/
Facebook: / thefabricator
Instagram: / thefabricator_magazine
LinkedIn: / the-fabricator-magazine
Twitter: / fabricating
#intheworkshop #metalfabrication #welding #metalfab #welder #fabrication #welder #MIGweld #metalworking #weldernation #metalwork #weldinglife #weldingshop #weld #MIGwelding

[@brianpachmayer9798]

When you use pliers to rake out spatter from your nozzle you end up gouging the copper nozzle which leads to more spatter sticking to your setup. Take your nozzle off and use a very fine file to smooth it out and then use 80-100 grit sand paper and your fingers to smooth it out further. Just a slight tap against the side of your table keeps it clean for a long time. No nozzle dip necessary. The objective is to keep it smooth. I even go a step further with some scotch bright to slick it up more.

[@chrisp9046]

Interesting! Even if you’re welding a lot of galvanized?? I mean obviously use nozzle dip, but it’s so obnoxious how much crap sticks when welding galvanized but that’s probably the issue! Not a smooth nozzle.

[@chrisp9046]

How the fuck do you get scotchbright up in that bitch lol

[@manyogurt4645]

Very good video.

[@kakman1958]

I'm glad I found this as it answered my question regarding distance from the contact tip to the nozzle tip. I bought a new welder from the local large hardware chain and the gun which came with it has the contact tip a good 4-5mm (3/16th inch) inside the nozzle. This means my stickout has probably been closer to 12-15mm (5/8") and could explain why I've been having so much trouble getting (gasless) MIG working OK. Using stick with 6013 has been fine.

[@2mbrand]

Great video!

[@Meganbiller1234]

Very helpful thank you

[@davidjackson2115]

Thats simple logic. Im looking for how to avoid big metal blobs dropping in gun with over head welds. It seemed to improve with more wire feed but still did it only you got a little more welding done. One bloke said to have gun out on angle so any blobs drop off and miss gun. But others on YT show to get right in close as and they have no problems

[@rickyvlassoff236]

How do u get the steel out of a top end no gas welder

[@azarellediaz4892]

How about when you are using just flux core without shielded gas, does it matter if the cup gets clogged up??

[@richardfuerst5286]

nope

[@JoshWelton]

Not as far as hurting gas flow, but too much buildup and your wire might catch/ground out on the crud.

[@LauraSchiavi]

You don't need a cup for Flux core. The cup is used to direct the gas. Most machines also run MIG so they come with cup installed. Remove the cup and just use contact tip. Happy Welding

[@SLAYERR83]

Two words, NOZZLE DIP. Without it I am literally cleaning my nozzle and tip every 20-30 mins or so and more when welding galvanized crap.

[@rashidnaga]

no need. and dont need cut the wire. just bend and start welding.

[@richardfuerst5286]

don't quit your day job, you won't make it as a singer! 😅

[@darlawelton2830]

Haha! We were wondering if anyone caught that goofiness at the end of the video!

[@JoshWelton]

Im gonna keep trying