SESKStuff Everyone Should Know
SESK: Stuff Everyone Should Know · sesk.info/weld-mig-polarity-dcep

What polarity does MIG welding of mild steel use?

DC electrode positive, also called reverse polarity.

Start playing free

  1. DC electrode positive (reverse polarity) ✔
  2. DC electrode negative (straight polarity)
  3. Alternating current with no polarity

Why: MIG welding runs on direct current with the wire on the positive side. That setup is called DCEP, or reverse polarity.

Huh, didn't know that: Miller suggests setting MIG shielding gas flow to 20 to 25 cubic feet per hour.

The dad joke
Two atoms were walking down the beach. One said, "Hey, I think I lost an electron." The other asked, "Are you sure?" The first said, "Yes, I'm positive."
Like this card?
Play the game

References

Answer: DC electrode positive (reverse polarity). MIG welding runs on direct current with the wire on the positive side. That setup is called DCEP, or reverse polarity.

  1. Understanding the Basics of MIG Welding for Mild Steel (Miller) www.millerwelds.com/en-us/resources/knowledge-hub/mig-welding/how-to/understanding-the-basics-of-mig-welding-for-mild-steel
    MIG welding requires DC electrode positive, or reverse polarity.
    Checked 2026-10-10.

Think this answer is wrong? Tap "Challenge this answer" on the card in the game and tell us why.

Test yourself in the game

Trades & ShopSelf-shielded flux-cored wires like E71T-11 run on which polarity?Trades & ShopWhat is the most common shielding gas mix for MIG welding mild steel?Trades & ShopCompared with 75/25 argon and CO2, what does 100% CO2 shielding gas tend to give?

That's stuff everyone should know.