What is a disadvantage of high heat input during the welding of thin materials?

High heat input during welding, particularly when working with thin materials, can lead to increased distortion and warpage. This is largely due to the way heat affects the structural integrity of the base material. When excessive heat is applied, it causes the metal to expand and can create uneven temperature distribution throughout the piece.

As the metal cools, it contracts unevenly, leading to internal stresses that manifest as distortion or warpage. Thin materials, in particular, are more susceptible to these effects because they do not have the thermal mass to absorb and distribute heat without significant deformation. Maintaining a lower heat input is crucial to prevent these issues, allowing for a more controlled weld and preserving the original dimensions of the workpiece.

The other options do not directly relate to the specific challenges posed by high heat input in the context of thin materials. Lower operator visibility, difficulty in initiating an arc, and higher energy consumption may be factors in various welding situations but are not directly linked to the consequences of heat input on thin materials.