How is molten metal created in GTAW?

In Gas Tungsten Arc Welding (GTAW), molten metal is created primarily through the heat generated by the tungsten electrode and the base metal. The process involves establishing an arc between the non-consumable tungsten electrode and the workpiece, which produces intense heat. This heat is focused on the base metal, bringing it to its melting point, thereby creating molten metal.

The role of the tungsten electrode is crucial as it can withstand high temperatures without melting, allowing it to maintain an arc for effective heating. As the base metal melts, it becomes a molten pool, which can be further manipulated or filled with filler metal if required for the weld bead. This direct heating is essential to the GTAW process, making it distinct from other welding methods that may rely on different means of generating heat.

Using only filler metal, engaging in chemical reactions with shielding gases, or applying external heat through an oxy-fuel torch are not the methods by which molten metal is generated in GTAW, underscoring the significance of the arc and the interaction between the tungsten electrode and base metal as the primary sources of heat.