The basics of MIG (Metal Inert Gas) wire welding is covered by a free, online course now being offered by an arc welding equipment manufacturer.

David Heidemann, manager of program development and training at Miller Electric Manufacturing Co., Appleton, Wis., says the course should take about two hours to complete, although users can break it up if they choose. Go to www.millerwelds.com for details. Click here to view chart

MIG welding systems feed a continuous wire to form the bead and shield it with inert gas to eliminate slag, Heidmann says. MIG is most often used in shops, rather than on open sites, but Heidemann says much of the information in the tutorial applies to other types of arc welding as well.

Another course on basic electricity for welding is also available at the same site.