For stainless steel thicker than 1/4 inch using GMAW, a slight side-to-side movement should be used.

• A. True
• B. False
• C. Only with high currents
• D. Only in the flat position

Answer: (A)

When welding stainless steel thicker than 1/4 inch with GMAW, you want to distribute heat along the joint and build up the weld across a wider area. A slight side-to-side weave helps accomplish that by enlarging the weld bead width and promoting fusion along both sides of the groove. This reduces the chances of burn-through in thick sections, helps fill the joint more effectively, and produces a more uniform weld with proper penetration. The weave is a technique to control heat input and bead shape, not something limited to a particular current level or to the flat position, so it’s appropriate in various positions as needed for thicker stainless.