Troubleshooting

Why is my mig welding undercut?

Quick answer

Undercut in mig welding usually means too much heat or too fast travel at the weld toe — the parent metal gets washed away. For this process, reduce current and slow the toe fill before touching anything else.

· · Technical guidance compiled from trade practice and manufacturer data; our source-verification program is in progress — see our editorial policy.

The specific fix

Reduce current and slow the toe fill. The general rule: reduce current, slow slightly, adjust torch angle to fill the toe.

Process checklist

  • Stick-out too long — keep 8–10 mm from nozzle to work for a stable arc
  • Travel too slow on thin sheet, burning holes instead of building a bead
  • Wrong wire size for the job — 0.9 mm covers most hobby work in Australia