What are some common defects associated with Gas Tungsten Arc Welding (GTAW)?

The choice identifying porosity, lack of fusion, undercut, and inclusions as common defects associated with Gas Tungsten Arc Welding (GTAW) accurately reflects a range of issues that can occur during this welding process.

Porosity refers to the formation of small gas pockets in the weld bead, which can weaken the overall structure of the weld. This often happens when contaminants such as moisture, oils, or other impurities are present in the weld area or in the filler material.

Lack of fusion occurs when the edges of the base metal or filler do not properly bond together, leading to weak spots in the weld. This can arise from insufficient heat input or improper technique.

Undercut is a groove that forms at the edge of the weld due to excessive heat or improper angle, compromising the strength of the weld and making it more susceptible to fracture.

Inclusions are non-metallic materials (such as slag or oxides) that become trapped in the weld pool, which may compromise the integrity and strength of the final weld.

Recognizing and controlling these defects is crucial for achieving high-quality welds in GTAW applications, hence the identification of these issues as common defects underscores their importance in welding practice and quality assurance.