Using a ____ arc current setting with ____ travel speeds is important when welding stainless steel.

Using a ____ arc current setting with ____ travel speeds is important when welding stainless steel.

• A. Low, slower
• B. High, slower
• C. High, faster
• D. Low, faster

Answer: (D)

Controlling heat input is the key idea here. In GTAW, heat input depends on voltage, current, and travel speed. Using a lower arc current reduces the energy put into the metal, and moving the torch faster decreases the time the weld pool is exposed to heat. Together, low current with faster travel keeps heat input to a minimum, which helps prevent distortion, burn-through, oxidation, and sensitization issues common with stainless steel. If you were to use higher current or slower travel, more heat would be added, increasing the risk of warping and poor weld quality.

Controlling heat input is the key idea here. In GTAW, heat input depends on voltage, current, and travel speed. Using a lower arc current reduces the energy put into the metal, and moving the torch faster decreases the time the weld pool is exposed to heat. Together, low current with faster travel keeps heat input to a minimum, which helps prevent distortion, burn-through, oxidation, and sensitization issues common with stainless steel. If you were to use higher current or slower travel, more heat would be added, increasing the risk of warping and poor weld quality.