At approximately 140 amps, what is the recommended postflow time?

At approximately 140 amps, what is the recommended postflow time?

• A. 15 seconds
• B. 25 seconds
• C. 10 seconds
• D. 5 seconds

Answer: (A)

Postflow time is the period of shielding gas that continues after you stop the arc to protect the weld as it cools. At about 140 amps, the heat input keeps the weld area reactive for a moment after the arc ends, so you need enough postflow to maintain shielding during cooling. About 15 seconds is a typical setting because it provides enough time to protect the weld until the metal solidifies and becomes less prone to oxidation, without wasting gas. Shorter times like 10 or 5 seconds may not cover the cooling period adequately and can lead to oxidation or porosity, while a longer time such as 25 seconds would be more gas than necessary at this amperage.

Postflow time is the period of shielding gas that continues after you stop the arc to protect the weld as it cools. At about 140 amps, the heat input keeps the weld area reactive for a moment after the arc ends, so you need enough postflow to maintain shielding during cooling. About 15 seconds is a typical setting because it provides enough time to protect the weld until the metal solidifies and becomes less prone to oxidation, without wasting gas. Shorter times like 10 or 5 seconds may not cover the cooling period adequately and can lead to oxidation or porosity, while a longer time such as 25 seconds would be more gas than necessary at this amperage.