What is a common consequence of too high travel speed in GTAW?

In Gas Tungsten Arc Welding (GTAW), maintaining the appropriate travel speed is crucial for achieving a good quality weld. When the travel speed is too high, one common consequence is the increased risk of lack of fusion. This occurs because the heat generated by the arc does not have enough time to adequately melt the base material and fuse it with the filler metal, leading to areas within the weld where the materials do not bond properly.

The weld bead may appear acceptable on the surface, but beneath that surface, there can be weak spots that compromise the integrity of the weld. These zones may lead to structural failure under stress, making it essential for welders to control their travel speed to ensure proper fusion between the materials being joined.

In summary, a travel speed that is too high limits the heat's ability to perform its role effectively, resulting in insufficient melting and, consequently, a lack of fusion. This emphasizes the importance of finding a balanced travel speed when performing GTAW to ensure quality and durability in welds.