What is 'pulsed spray' GMAW and what are its benefits?

• A. A pulsed current variant of spray transfer; provides control of heat input, reduces distortion, and allows out-of-position welds.
• B. A pulsed laser option used for dry welding.
• C. A shielding gas method to adjust flow.
• D. A post-weld cleaning technique.

Answer: (A)

Pulsed spray GMAW uses a pulsed current waveform to drive spray transfer. The peak current during each pulse is high enough to produce spray-mode droplet transfer, while a lower background current maintains the arc between pulses. This keeps the fast, stable deposition of spray transfer but reduces the time-average heat input because the high-energy phase is brief. With less heat in the weld area, distortion is minimized and bead control improves, making it easier to weld thinner materials and in out-of-position joints. Shielding gas remains the same as for standard spray transfer (typically argon-based). This technique isn't a laser option, a shielding-gas adjustment method, or a post-weld cleaning technique.