At Mansilla Architectural Metals, we apply multiple welding techniques depending on the project’s complexity, material, and finish requirements. One of the most widely used methods in our shop is Gas Metal Arc Welding (GMAW), more commonly known as MIG welding. Known for its speed, consistency, and adaptability across metals, GMAW is a workhorse process that plays a key role in structural and architectural metal fabrication.
Why MIG Welding Is a Core Process in Fabrication
MIG welding uses a continuously fed wire electrode along with a shielding gas — typically argon or a mix of argon and CO₂ — to produce a stable arc and clean weld bead. Its semi-automated nature enables faster welding speeds and high deposition rates, making it ideal for both production runs and precision fabrication.
Key advantages include:
- High welding speed for increased efficiency
- Clean finish with minimal spatter
- Strong, consistent welds suitable for both structural and aesthetic applications
- Adaptability across steel, stainless steel, and aluminum
This versatility makes MIG welding one of the most practical and scalable methods in the construction industry.
MIG Welding Applications in Our Shop
At Mansilla Architectural Metals, MIG welding is used across a wide range of project types, including:
- Structural steel fabrication — joists, stair stringers, mezzanine frames
- Architectural components — gates, railings, and framing systems
- Aluminum fabrication — lightweight structural pieces, enclosures, and signage
- Custom assemblies — multi-part steel or stainless structures requiring consistent weld quality
Because of its balance between strength and finish, MIG welding is used for both hidden structural joints and visible architectural welds where cleanliness and precision matter.
MIG in Aluminum and Sheet Metal Fabrication
Aluminum fabrication requires careful heat control, and MIG welding — when dialed in with the proper voltage, travel speed, and shielding gas — delivers excellent performance. It allows us to fabricate aluminum staircases, awnings, and panels with clean seams and minimal distortion.
In sheet metal applications, such as light-gauge framing or detail-driven components, MIG welding excels at providing precise, low-spatter welds that maintain the integrity of the material without burn-through or warping.
Key Considerations for GMAW in Construction Fabrication
While MIG welding is highly efficient, it performs best in controlled shop environments where shielding gas is unaffected by wind or drafts. Our indoor welding stations are optimized for MIG performance — ensuring that each weld achieves proper fusion and strength without porosity or surface contamination.
To ensure consistent quality, all MIG welding at Mansilla Architectural Metals is performed by certified welders trained to handle steel, aluminum, and stainless across various gauges and configurations. Our quality control process includes visual inspection, fit-up verification, and, when required, additional testing to meet structural or architectural requirements.
GMAW (MIG) welding remains a foundational method at Mansilla Architectural Metals for good reason — it’s fast, clean, and dependable. Whether we’re fabricating structural frames, aluminum railings, or precision-finished architectural elements, our MIG welds are built to spec and built to last. When the job calls for strength, speed, and clean execution, MIG gets it done — the right way.
