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CW Certified Welder practice questions

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Question 1Welding process (e.g., SMAW, GMAW, FCAW, GTAW) selected for certification

In the AWS electrode designation E7018, what does the "70" indicate?

  1. 70,000 psi yield strength
  2. 70,000 psi tensile strength Correct answer.
  3. 0.070 inch electrode diameter
  4. 0.70 percent carbon content

Explanation

In the EXXYY classification, the first two digits after E give the minimum tensile strength of the deposited weld metal in thousands of pounds per square inch. Thus 70 means 70,000 psi minimum tensile strength. The remaining digits describe position and coating/current type, not yield strength or carbon level.

Question 2Welding process (e.g., SMAW, GMAW, FCAW, GTAW) selected for certification

Which shielding gas mixture is most typical for GMAW spray transfer on carbon steel?

  1. Pure helium
  2. 90% argon / 10% CO2 Correct answer.
  3. Pure carbon dioxide
  4. 75% argon / 25% CO2

Explanation

Spray transfer requires an argon-rich shielding gas to produce a stable, axial spray of fine droplets. A mixture near 90% argon with 10% CO2 is widely used for this mode on carbon steel. Higher CO2 levels tend toward short-circuit or globular transfer, and pure helium is not the standard choice for carbon steel spray.

Question 3Welding process (e.g., SMAW, GMAW, FCAW, GTAW) selected for certification

Which current type is normally used for GTAW of aluminum to obtain oxide cleaning?

  1. DCEP
  2. DC with helium
  3. DCEN
  4. AC Correct answer.

Explanation

Alternating current alternates between electrode-negative and electrode-positive half-cycles. The electrode-positive portion helps break up the refractory aluminum oxide, while the electrode-negative portion provides penetration and limits tungsten overheating. This makes AC the standard choice for aluminum GTAW.

Question 4Welding process (e.g., SMAW, GMAW, FCAW, GTAW) selected for certification

What distinguishes self-shielded FCAW from gas-shielded FCAW?

  1. It uses a solid wire instead of a flux-cored wire
  2. Its flux core provides the shielding atmosphere Correct answer.
  3. It requires a trailing shielding gas nozzle
  4. It can only be used in the flat position

Explanation

Self-shielded FCAW uses a tubular wire whose core contains ingredients that generate shielding gases and slag without an external gas supply. Gas-shielded FCAW requires an external shielding gas delivered through a nozzle. Self-shielded wires are often used outdoors where drafts would disrupt gas shielding.

Question 5Welding process (e.g., SMAW, GMAW, FCAW, GTAW) selected for certification

Which polarity is normally specified for an E6010 SMAW electrode?

  1. AC only
  2. DCEP Correct answer.
  3. DCEN
  4. Either AC or DCEN

Explanation

E6010 is a cellulosic electrode designed primarily for direct current electrode positive. DCEP gives a stable, forceful arc and deep penetration suited to root passes and pipeline work. It is not normally run on AC, and DCEN does not provide the intended arc characteristics.

Question 6Welding process (e.g., SMAW, GMAW, FCAW, GTAW) selected for certification

Why is short-circuiting transfer generally limited to thin material?

  1. It produces a very broad, stable spray arc
  2. It cannot be used with CO2 gas
  3. It has low heat input and deposition rate Correct answer.
  4. It requires pure helium shielding gas

Explanation

Short-circuiting transfer occurs at relatively low current and voltage, so the arc is short and heat input is low. This makes it suitable for thin sections but prone to lack of fusion on thick material. It is also commonly used with CO2 or argon-CO2 mixtures, not pure helium.

Question 7Welding process (e.g., SMAW, GMAW, FCAW, GTAW) selected for certification

What color identifies a 2% thoriated tungsten electrode in the common AWS color code?

  1. Red Correct answer.
  2. Purple
  3. Gray
  4. Green

Explanation

In the AWS tungsten electrode color code, 2% thoriated tungsten is marked red. Pure tungsten is green, and gray is used for the general EWG classification. The color code helps welders identify electrode composition before use.

Question 8Welding process (e.g., SMAW, GMAW, FCAW, GTAW) selected for certification

Why must slag be removed between passes in FCAW?

  1. It increases the wire feed speed
  2. It changes the shielding gas composition
  3. It lowers the arc voltage
  4. It can cause slag inclusions and porosity Correct answer.

Explanation

Flux-cored welding produces a slag layer that must be cleaned before the next pass. If trapped, slag can become a slag inclusion, and contamination can also contribute to porosity. Interpass cleaning is therefore part of sound weld quality control.

Question 9Welding process (e.g., SMAW, GMAW, FCAW, GTAW) selected for certification

What is the effect of a long arc in SMAW?

  1. Stronger arc force and less porosity
  2. Deeper penetration and narrower bead
  3. Lower amperage and less spatter
  4. Wider bead and more spatter Correct answer.

Explanation

Lengthening the arc raises arc voltage and spreads the arc over a wider area. The result is a wider bead, shallower penetration, and more spatter. A short arc concentrates heat and generally improves penetration and control.

Question 10Welding process (e.g., SMAW, GMAW, FCAW, GTAW) selected for certification

In GMAW, what happens when wire feed speed is increased while voltage is held constant?

  1. Arc length increases and current decreases
  2. Current increases and arc length shortens Correct answer.
  3. Voltage increases and deposition decreases
  4. Current decreases and penetration deepens

Explanation

Wire feed speed primarily controls welding current in GMAW. Increasing wire feed speed drives more wire into the arc, raising current and tending to shorten the arc unless voltage is also increased. Voltage, not wire feed speed, is the main control of arc length.

Question 11Welding process (e.g., SMAW, GMAW, FCAW, GTAW) selected for certification

How is filler metal usually added in manual GTAW?

  1. Dipping a rod into the arc Correct answer.
  2. Through the torch nozzle
  3. A motorized spool gun
  4. Gravity from a hopper

Explanation

Manual GTAW uses a separate filler rod fed by hand into the leading edge of the weld pool. The tungsten electrode is not consumed, so filler must be added independently when required. Spool guns and hoppers are associated with other processes or mechanized setups.

Question 12Welding process (e.g., SMAW, GMAW, FCAW, GTAW) selected for certification

What does excessive wire stickout tend to cause in gas-shielded FCAW?

  1. Higher current and deeper penetration
  2. Loss of shielding and porosity Correct answer.
  3. Increased shielding gas flow
  4. Cleaner weld with less spatter

Explanation

Excessive stickout places the wire tip far from the gas nozzle, so the shielding gas envelope can be disrupted. This allows atmospheric contamination and can produce porosity. Stickout should be kept within the electrode manufacturer's recommended range.

Question 13Welding process (e.g., SMAW, GMAW, FCAW, GTAW) selected for certification

How should E7018 electrodes be stored after opening?

  1. In a sealed plastic bag
  2. In a holding oven Correct answer.
  3. In open air
  4. In a freezer

Explanation

E7018 is a low-hydrogen electrode, and its coating absorbs moisture if exposed. After opening, it should be kept in a heated holding oven at the manufacturer's recommended temperature. Moisture pickup can lead to hydrogen-assisted cracking in the weld.

Question 14Welding process (e.g., SMAW, GMAW, FCAW, GTAW) selected for certification

What is the main effect of increasing contact-tip-to-work distance in GMAW?

  1. Faster wire feed and deeper fusion
  2. Less current and penetration Correct answer.
  3. Shorter arc and higher current
  4. Higher voltage and better shielding

Explanation

Increasing contact-tip-to-work distance lengthens the electrically resistive wire extension, which lowers welding current for a given wire feed speed. Lower current reduces penetration and can also disturb shielding. Contact-tip distance should therefore be kept consistent.

Question 15Welding process (e.g., SMAW, GMAW, FCAW, GTAW) selected for certification

What does excessive shielding gas flow in GTAW often cause?

  1. Higher welding current
  2. Wider heat-affected zone
  3. Turbulence and porosity Correct answer.
  4. Deeper penetration

Explanation

Too much shielding gas creates turbulence at the nozzle, which can draw surrounding air into the gas stream. The contaminated shielding atmosphere can produce porosity. Gas flow should be set to a smooth, adequate coverage rate rather than maximized.

Question 16Welding process (e.g., SMAW, GMAW, FCAW, GTAW) selected for certification

Most gas-shielded FCAW electrodes on carbon steel operate on which polarity?

  1. DCEN
  2. DCEP Correct answer.
  3. AC
  4. AC or DCEN

Explanation

Most gas-shielded flux-cored electrodes for carbon steel are designed for direct current electrode positive. DCEP provides a stable arc and good penetration characteristics. Some self-shielded wires use DCEN, but that is not the general rule for gas-shielded FCAW.

Question 17Welding process (e.g., SMAW, GMAW, FCAW, GTAW) selected for certification

What is a typical sign that SMAW amperage is set too low?

  1. Excessive spatter and a wide bead
  2. Burn-through and a concave bead
  3. High deposition and deep penetration
  4. Poor fusion and a stubbing arc Correct answer.

Explanation

Low amperage does not supply enough heat to melt the base metal and electrode properly. The electrode tends to stub or stick, and fusion is poor. Excessive spatter with a wide bead and burn-through are more typical of settings that are too high.

Question 18Welding process (e.g., SMAW, GMAW, FCAW, GTAW) selected for certification

Which condition most likely causes porosity in GMAW?

  1. A clean base metal surface
  2. Insufficient shielding gas flow Correct answer.
  3. High wire feed speed
  4. Using a short contact-tip distance

Explanation

Porosity in GMAW commonly results from atmospheric contamination of the arc. Insufficient shielding gas flow, drafts, or a clogged nozzle can all allow nitrogen and oxygen into the weld pool. Clean base metal and proper wire feed speed do not by themselves cause porosity.

Question 19Welding process (e.g., SMAW, GMAW, FCAW, GTAW) selected for certification

In AC GTAW of aluminum, what does the electrode-positive half-cycle do?

  1. Adds filler metal
  2. Removes oxide Correct answer.
  3. Cools the tungsten
  4. Increases penetration

Explanation

On the electrode-positive half-cycle, positive ions bombard the work surface and help break up the aluminum oxide layer. This is the cleaning action that makes AC useful for aluminum. The electrode-negative half-cycle supplies most of the penetration heat.

Question 20Welding process (e.g., SMAW, GMAW, FCAW, GTAW) selected for certification

In FCAW, what does increasing arc voltage primarily change?

  1. Shielding gas type
  2. Arc length Correct answer.
  3. Wire feed speed
  4. Polarity

Explanation

In FCAW, voltage is the main control of arc length. Increasing voltage lengthens the arc and widens the bead, while wire feed speed mainly controls current. Polarity and gas type are selected separately from the voltage setting.

Question 21Welding process (e.g., SMAW, GMAW, FCAW, GTAW) selected for certification

What is the usual drag angle for SMAW?

  1. 60 to 75 degrees
  2. 30 to 45 degrees
  3. 90 degrees
  4. 5 to 15 degrees Correct answer.

Explanation

A slight drag angle, often about 5 to 15 degrees, is typical in SMAW. This helps direct the arc and keep slag behind the molten pool. Larger angles can disturb shielding and bead shape.

Question 22Welding process (e.g., SMAW, GMAW, FCAW, GTAW) selected for certification

What does increasing inductance in GMAW short-circuit transfer do?

  1. Increases spatter and arc instability
  2. Softens the arc and cuts spatter Correct answer.
  3. Changes the shielding gas
  4. Raises voltage and shortens the arc

Explanation

Inductance controls how quickly current rises during a short circuit. Increasing inductance slows the current rise, producing a softer arc and reducing spatter. Voltage and gas selection remain separate settings.

Question 23Welding process (e.g., SMAW, GMAW, FCAW, GTAW) selected for certification

Why is DCEN preferred for GTAW of most metals?

  1. It cools the weld pool
  2. It concentrates heat in the work Correct answer.
  3. It cleans oxides better than AC does
  4. It melts the filler faster

Explanation

With DCEN, the work is positive and receives most of the electron bombardment, concentrating heat in the weld joint. This gives good penetration while limiting heat at the tungsten. Oxide cleaning is associated with electrode-positive operation, which is why aluminum often uses AC.

Question 24Welding process (e.g., SMAW, GMAW, FCAW, GTAW) selected for certification

What does the "T-1" classification suffix on an FCAW electrode indicate?

  1. A titanium-bearing flux
  2. A tungsten carbide core
  3. A tubular wire for submerged arc
  4. Rutile flux with gas shielding Correct answer.

Explanation

In flux-cored electrode classifications, the T-1 suffix identifies a rutile-type flux-cored electrode intended for gas-shielded operation. The suffix helps distinguish usability and shielding requirements. Other suffixes indicate different flux systems or self-shielded designs.

Question 25Welding process (e.g., SMAW, GMAW, FCAW, GTAW) selected for certification

What is a characteristic of E7024 SMAW electrodes?

  1. Cellulosic coating for pipeline work
  2. Low hydrogen for restrained joints
  3. Deep penetration for root passes
  4. High deposition with iron powder Correct answer.

Explanation

E7024 electrodes have a heavy coating containing iron powder, which increases deposition efficiency. They are typically used in the flat position and for horizontal fillets. Deep penetration root work, cellulosic pipeline electrodes, and low-hydrogen classifications are different electrode types.

Question 26Welding process (e.g., SMAW, GMAW, FCAW, GTAW) selected for certification

In the SMAW electrode designation E6010, what does the '60' represent?

  1. maximum carbon content in percent
  2. electrode coating thickness class
  3. minimum yield strength in ksi
  4. minimum tensile strength in ksi Correct answer.

Explanation

In an SMAW electrode classification, the first two digits after the E indicate minimum tensile strength in thousands of pounds per square inch. Thus '60' means 60,000 psi minimum tensile strength. The remaining digits describe welding position and coating/current characteristics.

Question 27Welding process (e.g., SMAW, GMAW, FCAW, GTAW) selected for certification

Which GMAW metal transfer mode uses a high current density in argon-rich gas to detach fine droplets in an axial spray?

  1. Globular transfer
  2. Short-circuiting transfer
  3. Spray transfer Correct answer.
  4. Surface-tension transfer

Explanation

Spray transfer occurs when the current density is high enough and the shielding gas is argon-rich, causing droplets to detach axially as a fine spray. The arc is stiff and stable, and the transfer is not a repeated short-circuiting process.

Question 28Welding process (e.g., SMAW, GMAW, FCAW, GTAW) selected for certification

How is a GTAW tungsten electrode normally prepared for DCEN welding of carbon steel?

  1. Ground to a tapered point Correct answer.
  2. Balled to a rounded tip
  3. Chisel-shaped with a flat face
  4. Cut square with a blunt end

Explanation

For DCEN GTAW on carbon steel, the tungsten is ground to a tapered point along its length so the arc remains focused and stable. A balled tip is typical for AC welding of aluminum, where the electrode-positive half-cycle forms the ball.

Question 29Welding process (e.g., SMAW, GMAW, FCAW, GTAW) selected for certification

Which AWS flux-cored electrode classification indicates a self-shielded electrode?

  1. E70T-1
  2. E71T-11 Correct answer.
  3. E71T-1M
  4. E71T-1

Explanation

The '-11' suffix identifies a self-shielded flux-cored electrode, which does not require an external shielding gas. The '-1' and '-1M' classifications are gas-shielded electrodes.

Question 30Welding process (e.g., SMAW, GMAW, FCAW, GTAW) selected for certification

Which shielding gas condition is needed to achieve true spray transfer in GMAW?

  1. Pure carbon dioxide
  2. Pure nitrogen
  3. An argon-rich mixture Correct answer.
  4. A helium-oxygen mixture

Explanation

Spray transfer requires an argon-rich shielding gas to stabilize the axial detachment of fine droplets at high current density. Carbon dioxide-rich gases tend to produce globular or short-circuiting transfer instead.

Question 31Welding process (e.g., SMAW, GMAW, FCAW, GTAW) selected for certification

In AC GTAW of aluminum, what happens when the balance control is adjusted toward electrode negative?

  1. It increases oxide cleaning width
  2. It increases penetration and narrows cleaning Correct answer.
  3. It reduces weld penetration
  4. It increases tungsten balling

Explanation

On AC, the electrode-negative half-cycle puts more heat into the workpiece, so shifting balance toward EN increases penetration. The electrode-positive half-cycle provides oxide cleaning, so cleaning action is reduced when balance moves toward EN.

Question 32Welding process (e.g., SMAW, GMAW, FCAW, GTAW) selected for certification

In the SMAW classification E7018, what does the final digit '8' primarily indicate?

  1. Rutile coating for flat work
  2. Cellulose sodium coating
  3. Low-hydrogen iron powder coating Correct answer.
  4. High-cellulose fast-freeze coating

Explanation

The final digit 8 identifies a low-hydrogen electrode with an iron powder coating, usable on AC or DC. These electrodes require dry storage to prevent hydrogen pickup.

Question 33Welding process (e.g., SMAW, GMAW, FCAW, GTAW) selected for certification

What is the main effect of a worn GMAW contact tip?

  1. It causes poor current transfer and an unstable arc Correct answer.
  2. It increases gas preflow time
  3. It raises the open-circuit voltage
  4. It reverses the welding polarity

Explanation

A worn contact tip has an enlarged bore, so the wire does not make consistent electrical contact. Current transfer becomes erratic, producing arc instability and poor weld quality.

Question 34Welding process (e.g., SMAW, GMAW, FCAW, GTAW) selected for certification

What is the purpose of a gas lens in a GTAW torch?

  1. It increases gas turbulence for coverage
  2. It filters moisture from the gas
  3. It preheats the shielding gas
  4. It produces smoother, more laminar gas flow Correct answer.

Explanation

A gas lens uses screens to straighten the shielding gas flow, producing a more laminar column that improves coverage. This is especially useful when a longer stickout or better access is needed.

Question 35Welding process (e.g., SMAW, GMAW, FCAW, GTAW) selected for certification

Which SMAW electrode is designed for both AC and DC welding and has a cellulosic coating?

  1. E7024
  2. E6010
  3. E7018
  4. E6011 Correct answer.

Explanation

E6011 has a cellulosic coating with potassium compounds that allow stable operation on AC or DC. E6010 is similar but is designed for DC operation.

Question 36Welding process (e.g., SMAW, GMAW, FCAW, GTAW) selected for certification

Which condition most likely causes a 'bird's nest' at the GMAW wire feeder?

  1. A kinked or blocked wire liner Correct answer.
  2. Shielding gas flow too high
  3. Drive rolls set too loose
  4. Contact tip recessed too far

Explanation

A bird's nest is a tangle of wire that buckles between the drive rolls and the gun cable. It usually occurs when the wire encounters an obstruction, such as a kinked or blocked liner, while the feeder keeps pushing.

Question 37Welding process (e.g., SMAW, GMAW, FCAW, GTAW) selected for certification

In the GMAW electrode classification ER70S-6, what does the 'S' indicate?

  1. It is a self-shielded electrode
  2. It is a stainless steel electrode
  3. It is a solid wire electrode Correct answer.
  4. It is a silicon-free electrode

Explanation

In ER70S-6, the S stands for solid wire. The 70 indicates minimum tensile strength, and the 6 designates the electrode chemistry, including deoxidizer content.

Question 38Welding process (e.g., SMAW, GMAW, FCAW, GTAW) selected for certification

Which GTAW arc-starting method is preferred to avoid tungsten contamination?

  1. Lift start
  2. High-frequency start Correct answer.
  3. Scratch start
  4. Touch start

Explanation

High-frequency starting establishes the arc without touching the tungsten to the workpiece, avoiding tungsten contamination. Scratch and touch starting can transfer tungsten into the weld.

Question 39Welding process (e.g., SMAW, GMAW, FCAW, GTAW) selected for certification

What is the primary role of the flux core in a flux-cored arc welding electrode?

  1. It controls the wire feed speed
  2. It conducts the welding current
  3. It preheats the base metal
  4. It forms slag and adds alloying elements Correct answer.

Explanation

The flux core decomposes in the arc to create shielding gases and a slag layer, and it can add alloying or deoxidizing elements to the weld. The outer metal sheath carries the welding current.

Question 40Welding process (e.g., SMAW, GMAW, FCAW, GTAW) selected for certification

Which polarity is typically used for self-shielded FCAW of carbon steel?

  1. Direct current electrode positive
  2. Alternating current
  3. Direct current electrode negative Correct answer.
  4. High-frequency alternating current

Explanation

Most self-shielded flux-cored electrodes operate on DCEN, which concentrates heat in the workpiece and supports the self-shielding action. Polarity should always be checked against the electrode manufacturer's specification.

Question 41Welding process (e.g., SMAW, GMAW, FCAW, GTAW) selected for certification

What weld bead characteristic typically results from excessive travel speed in FCAW?

  1. A bead with increased deposition rate
  2. A wide, flat bead with deep penetration
  3. A bead with excessive slag coverage
  4. A narrow, convex bead with poor fusion Correct answer.

Explanation

Excessive travel speed deposits less metal per unit length and lets the puddle freeze quickly, producing a narrow, crowned bead. The rapid advance can also reduce fusion at the sidewalls.

Question 42Welding process (e.g., SMAW, GMAW, FCAW, GTAW) selected for certification

In GMAW, what does the term 'stickout' refer to?

  1. The length of wire inside the gun
  2. The distance from the nozzle to the gas source
  3. The distance from the contact tip to the workpiece Correct answer.
  4. The arc length measured under the helmet

Explanation

Stickout, also called electrode extension, is the distance from the contact tip to the workpiece. It affects current density, arc stability, and penetration.

Question 43Welding process (e.g., SMAW, GMAW, FCAW, GTAW) selected for certification

What is the purpose of the liner in a GMAW gun cable?

  1. It regulates the shielding gas flow
  2. It cools the contact tip during welding
  3. It guides the wire from the feeder to the gun Correct answer.
  4. It carries the welding current to the wire

Explanation

The liner is a low-friction conduit that guides the electrode wire from the feeder through the cable to the gun. Current is transferred at the contact tip, not by the liner.

Question 44Welding process (e.g., SMAW, GMAW, FCAW, GTAW) selected for certification

In the SMAW classification E7018, what does the third digit '1' indicate?

  1. All positions Correct answer.
  2. Flat position only
  3. Overhead position only
  4. Horizontal position only

Explanation

The third digit in a standard SMAW electrode classification indicates welding position. A '1' means the electrode is suitable for all positions.

Question 45Welding process (e.g., SMAW, GMAW, FCAW, GTAW) selected for certification

Why is helium sometimes added to argon for GTAW of thick aluminum?

  1. It reduces oxide cleaning on aluminum
  2. It decreases the arc voltage requirement
  3. It lowers the cost of shielding gas
  4. It increases heat input and penetration Correct answer.

Explanation

Helium increases the thermal conductivity and heat input of the arc, which helps on thick aluminum sections. The tradeoff is that helium blends usually cost more and can make the arc less stable.

Question 46Welding process (e.g., SMAW, GMAW, FCAW, GTAW) selected for certification

Which item is essential personal protective equipment for arc welding?

  1. A welding helmet with the correct filter shade Correct answer.
  2. Leather gloves only
  3. Safety glasses alone
  4. A dust mask and ear plugs

Explanation

A welding helmet with the proper filter shade protects the eyes and face from ultraviolet and infrared radiation, sparks, and spatter. Gloves and other PPE are also important, but the helmet is essential for arc welding.

Question 47Welding process (e.g., SMAW, GMAW, FCAW, GTAW) selected for certification

What typically causes 'whiskers' on a GTAW tungsten electrode?

  1. Touching the filler rod to the tungsten Correct answer.
  2. Setting amperage too high
  3. Excessive shielding gas flow
  4. Using alternating current

Explanation

Whiskers form when the tungsten is contaminated, often by dipping it into the puddle or touching it with the filler rod. The contaminated tip should be removed and reground before continuing.

Question 48Welding process (e.g., SMAW, GMAW, FCAW, GTAW) selected for certification

What is the most likely result of too little shielding gas flow in GMAW?

  1. Burnback into the contact tip
  2. Increased travel speed
  3. Porosity from atmospheric contamination Correct answer.
  4. Excessive penetration

Explanation

Insufficient shielding gas allows atmospheric gases to reach the molten weld pool, causing porosity and poor weld quality. Adequate flow, correct gas type, and a clean gas path are needed for protection.

Question 49Welding process (e.g., SMAW, GMAW, FCAW, GTAW) selected for certification

In the flux-cored electrode classification E71T-1M, what does the 'M' suffix indicate?

  1. It is designed for mixed shielding gas Correct answer.
  2. It is a metal-cored electrode
  3. It has moisture-resistant packaging
  4. It is a manual electrode

Explanation

The M suffix on a gas-shielded flux-cored electrode indicates that it is intended for a mixed shielding gas, typically argon mixed with carbon dioxide. Without the M, the electrode is usually designed for CO2 shielding.

Question 50Welding process (e.g., SMAW, GMAW, FCAW, GTAW) selected for certification

What is the main purpose of weaving the electrode in SMAW?

  1. It reduces the welding current automatically
  2. It controls bead width and fusion at the edges Correct answer.
  3. It increases travel speed without changing heat input
  4. It eliminates the need to remove slag

Explanation

Weaving spreads the arc across the joint to control bead width and tie the weld into both sidewalls. The weave width and dwell should be controlled to avoid poor fusion or excessive heat input.