[Shop-talk] Basic MIG Welding questions

[Jim Stone]

I finally had a chance to use my MIG (Hobart 140) with CO2/Argon shielding
gas.  My initial welds were pretty poor, but I got better as I went along and
the lessons from my welding class came back to me.  However, I have two
questions about using it with the shielding gas.  First, I was surprised that
the instructions didn't call for any thread sealer on the gas connections, nor
for any testing for leaks (e.g., soapy water).  Is this correct?  Don't I need
to worry about this?

My second question is pretty simple:  When I am through for the night, is it
necessary to purge the line after shutting off the gas cylinder? Or can I just
leave it alone and let it leak out slowly over time?

Thanks.

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