Gas Metal Arc Welding (GMAW/MIG)
What does GMAW stand for?
Answer: Gas Metal Arc Welding
What does GTAW stand for?
Gas Tungsten Arc Welding
What is the common name for SMAW?
Answer: Stick welding
What does FCAW stand for?
Flux Cored Arc Welding
What is another common name for GMAW?
Answer: MIG welding
What is the "foot pedal" used for in GTAW?
To control the welding current and start/stop the arc
What is the primary shielding mechanism in SMAW?
Answer: The flux coating on the welding electrode
What are the main advantages of FCAW?
High deposition rate, good penetration, versatile for various materials, fast welding speed
What is the primary function of the shielding gas in GMAW?
Answer: To protect the weld pool from contamination from the surrounding air
What is the difference between a "pure" tungsten electrode and a "thoriated" tungsten electrode?
Thoriated electrodes provide better arc stability but raise safety concerns due to thorium content
What are the two main parts of a SMAW power source?
Answer: The electrode holder and the ground clamp
What are the two main types of flux-cored wires?
Gas-shielded and self-shielded
What is the main factor that determines the type of metal transfer in GMAW?
Answer: The welding current and voltage settings
What is the purpose of the gas flow in GTAW?
To protect the weld pool from contamination by atmospheric gases
What is the most important factor to consider when selecting a SMAW electrode for a specific application?
Answer: The type of metal being welded and the desired weld characteristics
What is the primary function of the flux in FCAW?
Carbon steel, mild steel, some stinless steels
Which 3 gases are most commonly used for GMAW?
Argon, Helium, Carbon Dioxide (CO2) and Oxygen (O2)
What are a few common applications where GTAW is preferred?
Aerospace components, automotive parts, medical devices, high-precision welding
What is the proper technique for electrode manipulation during SMAW?
Answer: A slight dragging or pulling motion
What is a potential disadvantage of FCAW?
Higher fume generation compared to other welding processes