GMAW/FCAW Welding Techniques

Running a bead is easy. Producing a strong, consistent, code-conscious weld-and knowing exactly what to change when something goes wrong-requires a deeper understanding of the process.

• Understand GMAW and FCAW from the arc outward, including short-circuit, globular, spray, and pulsed spray metal transfer.
• Set up equipment correctly, from power sources and wire feeders to drive rolls, contact tips, liners, guns, and work connections.
• Select shielding gases and electrodes for carbon steel, stainless steel, aluminum, indoor fabrication, and field work.
• Choose voltage, wire feed speed, stickout, and travel speed for thin material, heavy sections, and out-of-position welding.
• Improve gun manipulation and bead control across flat, horizontal, vertical, and overhead positions.
• Diagnose common weld defects, including porosity, incomplete fusion, undercut, spatter, burn-through, cracking, slag inclusions, and distortion.
• Understand welding symbols, WPS requirements, inspection methods, AWS/ASME code concepts, and welder qualification.
• Use quick-reference appendices covering welding parameters, wire classifications, welding symbols, positions, and troubleshooting.

Build better welding judgment, troubleshoot with confidence, and take your GMAW/FCAW skills beyond trial and error-get your copy today.