AWS Welding Processes & Equipment 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 AWS Welding Processes & Equipment flashcards as text
In flux-cored arc welding (FCAW), what is the primary difference between FCAW-S and FCAW-G?
Answer: FCAW-S is self-shielded requiring no external gas while FCAW-G requires external shielding gas
FCAW-S (self-shielded) generates its own shielding from flux compounds inside the tubular wire, while FCAW-G (gas-shielded) requires an external shielding gas supply.
Which welding process uses a non-consumable tungsten electrode and is best suited for welding thin aluminum sections?
Answer: GTAW
Gas tungsten arc welding (GTAW/TIG) uses a non-consumable tungsten electrode and provides precise heat control ideal for thin aluminum.
What is the purpose of a contactor in a welding power source?
Answer: To energize the welding output terminals only when the arc is struck or the torch trigger is pressed
A contactor is a high-current switch that keeps the welding output terminals de-energized until the welder initiates an arc, improving operator safety.
During submerged arc welding (SAW), what function does the granular flux serve?
Answer: It shields the arc and weld pool from atmospheric contamination and can add alloying elements
In SAW, the granular flux completely covers the arc and molten pool, protecting it from the atmosphere and potentially contributing alloying elements to the weld.
A welding power source rated at 300A/32V with a 60% duty cycle can be used continuously at rated output for how many minutes out of every 10-minute period?
Answer: 6 minutes
A 60% duty cycle means the machine can operate at rated output for 60% of a 10-minute period, which equals 6 minutes on and 4 minutes off.
In plasma arc welding (PAW), what distinguishes the 'keyhole' technique from conventional fusion welding?
Answer: A high-velocity plasma jet penetrates completely through the base metal, creating a hole that is progressively filled as the torch advances
In keyhole PAW, the constricted plasma arc fully penetrates the joint, and surface tension holds the molten metal as the keyhole moves forward, enabling full-penetration single-pass welds.
Which shielding gas or gas mixture is most commonly recommended for GMAW of carbon steel to achieve a good balance of penetration, bead appearance, and arc stability?
Answer: 75% argon / 25% CO2
A 75% Ar / 25% CO2 blend (C25) is the industry standard for carbon steel GMAW, balancing CO2's penetration and cost with argon's arc stability and reduced spatter.