Gas Tungsten Arc Welding (GTAW/TIG) Flashcards
7 cards from real AWS practice questions. Tap to flip, then mark Knew It or Still Learning — missed cards come back until you master them.
Read the first 7 Gas Tungsten Arc Welding (GTAW/TIG) flashcards as text
In pulsed GTAW, what is the primary advantage of using a high pulse frequency?
Answer: Improves arc stability and refines the weld microstructure
High pulse frequency in GTAW improves arc stability, refines grain structure, and reduces distortion, making it beneficial for thin materials and precision welds.
What does a 'walking the cup' technique in GTAW involve?
Answer: Bracing the gas cup against the pipe to guide the torch in a controlled weave
Walking the cup involves bracing the ceramic cup against the pipe joint and pivoting/rolling it to maintain a consistent arc length and travel angle, commonly used in pipe root passes.
When GTAW welding a pipe root pass open to atmosphere on the inside, what process is used to protect the back side of the root from oxidation?
Answer: Purging with inert gas (back purging)
Back purging displaces oxygen inside the pipe with inert gas (typically argon) to prevent oxidation of the root pass on the ID of the pipe.
What is the effect of using too long an arc length in GTAW?
Answer: Wider, flatter bead with more oxidation and reduced penetration
An excessively long arc length diffuses the heat, producing a wide, shallow bead with reduced shielding effectiveness and increased risk of atmospheric contamination.
According to AWS standards, what is the maximum acceptable tungsten inclusion size in a radiographically tested weld?
Answer: They are evaluated per the applicable acceptance criteria in the governing code (e.g., AWS D1.1)
Tungsten inclusion acceptance criteria depend on the governing welding code or standard being applied, such as AWS D1.1, which specifies size and frequency limits.
Which condition will most likely cause tungsten spitting (small tungsten particles depositing in the weld) during GTAW?
Answer: Exceeding the current-carrying capacity of the tungsten electrode
Exceeding the rated amperage for a given tungsten diameter causes the tip to overheat and partially melt, spitting tungsten particles into the weld pool.
When qualifying a GTAW welder procedure on 3/8-inch (9.5mm) carbon steel plate, which additional thickness range is the welder typically qualified to weld per AWS D1.1?
Answer: 3/16 inch to unlimited thickness
Per AWS D1.1, qualifying on material 3/8 inch or thicker typically qualifies the welder for base metal from 1/8 inch to unlimited thickness in the same position.