AWS Certified Welding Inspector — FundamentalsWelding ProcessesMedium
A CWI is performing a quality control check on a Submerged Arc Welding (SAW) operation. The WPS specifies a travel speed of 15 inches per minute (ipm), a voltage of 30V, and a current of 600A. The weld bead exhibits excessive reinforcement and a narrow bead width. What adjustment to the welding parameters would most likely address these issues while maintaining adequate penetration?
- ADecrease voltage.
- BIncrease travel speed.
- CIncrease current.
- DDecrease wire feed speed.
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: B. Increase travel speed.
Excessive reinforcement and a narrow bead width typically indicate too much filler metal being deposited per unit length of weld. Increasing the travel speed will spread the existing molten metal over a longer distance, reducing reinforcement and widening the bead, while still providing sufficient heat for penetration.
Why the other options are wrong
- A. Decreasing voltage would narrow the bead and increase reinforcement, exacerbating the problem.
- C. Increasing current would increase deposition and penetration, likely worsening the excessive reinforcement.
- D. Decreasing wire feed speed would reduce reinforcement but could also lead to lack of fusion or inadequate penetration if not carefully balanced with other parameters.
SAW Parameter Adjustment (Reinforcement/Width)
Adjusting SAW parameters like travel speed, voltage, and current is critical for controlling weld bead shape, reinforcement, and penetration.
- Travel speed inversely affects reinforcement.
- Voltage affects bead width and profile.
- Current affects penetration and deposition rate.
Memory trick: Fast travel, flat weld; slow travel, tall weld.