Direct current electrode positive (DCEP) produces what characteristics in GMAW?

• A. Deep penetration and cleaning action
• B. Shallow penetration
• C. Poor penetration with high porosity
• D. No penetration

Answer: (A)

When you run GMAW with the electrode positive (DCEP), more heat is delivered to the workpiece and the arc has a stronger cleaning action on the metal surface. The electrode being positive makes the arc heat the workpiece more intensely, which increases penetration into the weld joint. At the same time, it helps break up and remove surface oxides, resulting in a cleaner weld area. So DCEP is associated with deeper penetration and better cleaning action. The other options describe outcomes (shallow or no penetration, or porosity) that don’t match how this polarity affects the weld.