Why? Flux vs Gas MIG welding

[dynasim]

Flux core wire protects the weld from oxidation by covering(and reacting) the impurities(oxygen) with the flux. The result is slag, which coats the weld(on purpose). The sparking is an intersting question which I could guess about, but don't know for sure.

Gas prevents oxidation by covering the weld with an inert gas(which doens't oxidize the metal). The coating is done with gas itself. Because the inert gas doesn't create slag, the weld is clean. CO2 plays a part in the weld metallurgy that I don't understand, but I don't think it affects the "cleanliness" of the weld. There isn't any flux reactions going on with when using gas, so there won't be the sparking associated with flux utilizing welds.

Chris

[I_Love_Plasma]

I like the fan idea. We have a 5 foot ventilation fan in our shop. It really blows!

Back to welding,

I forgot to mention that the plate ( 48"W X 18"H X .25"T ) has the bottom brackets that are 3/8" - 1/2" thick (where the skid loader attachment locks swing down and hook). That's where I am wondering if 120 amps worth of MIG will cut the mustard?

Thanks