What is the slope feature used for on a GTAW machine?

What is the slope feature used for on a GTAW machine?

• A. To increase amperage quickly
• B. To maintain constant current
• C. To gradually lower the amperage to prevent crater cracks
• D. To reverse polarity

Answer: (C)

The slope feature controls how the welding current changes as you start and finish a weld, giving you smooth transitions rather than abrupt changes in heat input. In GTAW, using a slope down means the amperage drops gradually toward zero at the end of the weld. This gradual reduction lets the weld pool cool and solidify more evenly, reducing residual stress and the likelihood of crater cracks forming where the weld ends. The idea is to avoid a sudden drop in heat that can leave a small, hot crater prone to cracking as it solidifies.

The slope feature controls how the welding current changes as you start and finish a weld, giving you smooth transitions rather than abrupt changes in heat input. In GTAW, using a slope down means the amperage drops gradually toward zero at the end of the weld. This gradual reduction lets the weld pool cool and solidify more evenly, reducing residual stress and the likelihood of crater cracks forming where the weld ends. The idea is to avoid a sudden drop in heat that can leave a small, hot crater prone to cracking as it solidifies.