In MIG welding, what does the acronym "GMAW" stand for?

The acronym "GMAW" stands for Gas Metal Arc Welding, which accurately describes the process and key components of this welding technique. MIG welding involves using a continuous solid wire electrode that is fed through the welding gun and into the weld pool, along with a shielding gas that protects the weld area from atmospheric contamination. This process combines both gas and metal in the welding arc, hence the name Gas Metal Arc Welding.

Understanding this terminology is crucial for those involved in welding since it helps in identifying and differentiating the various welding processes and their applications. The other options presented do not accurately reflect the methodology or terminology used in MIG welding, making them unsuitable as definitions for GMAW.