How does travel speed affect a GTAW weld?

Travel speed significantly influences the quality and characteristics of a GTAW weld. When the travel speed is too fast, insufficient heat is applied to the workpiece, which can lead to issues such as undercutting. Undercut occurs when the edges of the weld bead are melted away, resulting in a groove that can weaken the joint. On the other hand, if the travel speed is too slow, it can create excessive heat input, which may cause distortions, burn-through, or even a weaker joint due to metallurgical changes in the base material.

The balance of travel speed and heat input is crucial for achieving a high-quality weld, making it essential for welders to carefully control their travel speed to optimize their results. This understanding is key to producing sound welds with proper penetration and a uniform bead appearance, which are critical factors for weld integrity and performance.