PrimeWeld 180 videos 

The primeweld mig 180 is a mig welder that also does stick welding and scratch start tig.

primeweld mig 180 plugged into 115 volt power

Mig welding overhead with a primeweld mig 180

The primeweld 180 mig welder package comes with a spool gun and for the price, its a great value.

The things I like about it are:

the mig 180 is dual voltage so I can run off either 115 volt or 230 volt. I have 230 volt power but it is my dryer plug so I have to run an extension to my laundry room.

But if I need to make a video on 11ga steel, I usually just plug into 115 volt and that saves time.

The 115 volt option also makes it a good portable stick welder

It is also a stick welder ( I repaired a gate using 3/32" 6011 rods off 115 volt power...see video here)

There is a beginner mig welding course at welderskills.com and we have even set up a free 7 day test drive for you so you can learn all you want for 7 days for free on us

Here are the pros and cons of short circuit MIG welding:

1. **Versatility**:
- Suitable for welding a wide range of materials, including steel, stainless steel, and aluminum.
- Effective for welding thin materials, typically 24 gauge up to about 1/4 inch thick.

2. **Control**:
- Offers good control over the weld puddle, making it easier to weld thin materials without burning through.
- Allows for positional welding (welding in various positions like vertical, horizontal, and overhead).

3. **Less Heat Input**:
- Generates less heat compared to other MIG welding methods, reducing the risk of warping and distortion in thin materials.

4. **Cost-Effective**:
- Generally more affordable than other welding processes.
- Uses less power and consumes fewer consumables.

5. **Ease of Use**:
- Easier for beginners to learn and use.
- Produces cleaner welds with less spatter compared to flux-cored welding.

### Cons of Short Circuit MIG Welding

1. **Limited Penetration**:
- Provides shallow penetration, which may not be suitable for thicker materials or joints that require deep weld penetration.

2. **Potential for Lack of Fusion**:
- Can lead to lack of fusion defects if not properly managed, particularly in heavier gauge materials with hot rolled mill scale.

3. **Not Ideal for Structural Welding**:
- Due to the limited penetration and potential for defects, it is not typically used for critical structural applications.
AWS D1.1 structural welding code requires a lengthy  procedure qualification for short circuit mig welding while deeming other process procedures like stick "pre qualified"

4. **Shielding Gas Requirement**:
- Requires a shielding gas (usually a mix of argon and CO2), which adds to the cost and complexity compared to some other welding methods like stick or self shielded flux core.

5. **Spatter**:
- Although less than some other processes, short circuit MIG welding still produces spatter, which requires cleanup.

### Summary
**Short circuit MIG welding** is a versatile and user-friendly welding process ideal for welding thin materials for welding in all positions.

However, it has limitations in penetration and is not the best choice for thicker materials or critical structural welds.

It's a great option for many general-purpose welding tasks, offering good control and less heat input, but requires careful attention to avoid defects and ensure strong welds.