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Post insightMIG welding wire speed controls penetration more than voltage
Most beginners adjust voltage to control the weld. In reality, wire feed speed (amperage) drives penetration depth, while voltage controls arc length and bead width. For thin material, reduce wire speed first. For thick material, increase wire speed. Voltage fine-tunes the arc character. The correct sequence: set wire speed for penetration, then adjust voltage for a smooth arc. Not the other way around.
Welding galvanized steel without proper ventilation causes metal fume fever
Zinc coating on galvanized steel vaporizes at welding temperatures, producing zinc oxide fumes that cause flu-like symptoms 4-12 hours after exposure. Per OSHA and AWS guidelines, welding galvanized material requires either grinding the zinc coating back 2-3 inches from the weld zone or welding with forced ventilation and a P100 respirator. A standard dust mask is NOT sufficient.