AWS Submerged Arc Welding (SAW) 2

Question 1

What does the term 'flux basicity index' measure in Submerged Arc Welding?

Accepted Answer

The ratio of basic to acidic oxide components in the flux

Answer

The basicity index (BI) is calculated from the ratio of basic to acidic oxide constituents in the flux and indicates the flux's ability to refine the weld metal and control impurities.

Question 2

In SAW, increasing amperage (wire feed speed) primarily affects which weld characteristic?

Accepted Answer

Depth of penetration

Answer

Increasing amperage increases the heat input and current density at the wire tip, which primarily drives deeper penetration into the base metal.

Question 3

Which of the following base metals is NOT commonly welded using the SAW process?

Accepted Answer

Aluminum alloys

Answer

Aluminum alloys are not suited for SAW because appropriate flux systems for aluminum SAW are not commercially practical, and the process is not specified in standard AWS aluminum welding codes.

Question 4

Flux for Submerged Arc Welding must be properly dried before use primarily to prevent:

Accepted Answer

Porosity and hydrogen-induced cracking

Answer

Moisture in SAW flux decomposes at the arc to produce hydrogen, which can cause porosity and hydrogen-induced (cold) cracking, particularly in higher-strength steels.

Question 5

What is the purpose of using a copper backing bar in SAW root pass welding?

Accepted Answer

To prevent burn-through and support the weld pool on single-sided welds

Answer

A copper backing bar supports the molten weld pool on single-sided groove welds, prevents burn-through, and helps form a smooth root bead without requiring back-gouging.

AWS Practice Test

AWS Practice Test

AWS Submerged Arc Welding (SAW) 2