Which of the following statements is true regarding the tungsten electrode in GTAW?

The statement that is true regarding the tungsten electrode in GTAW is that it must be regularly sharpened to maintain effectiveness. The tungsten electrode is a key component in the GTAW process because it is responsible for producing the arc that melts the base material, allowing for the creation of the weld.

Sharpening the electrode is crucial for achieving a focused and stable arc. A properly sharpened tungsten electrode allows for better control of the arc length and improves the ability to weld thin materials, as it creates a more concentrated arc. This ensures a cleaner weld with less contamination and provides higher weld quality.

In contrast, while the tungsten does not melt and become part of the weld, it does not get consumed in the same way as filler material. Instead, it retains its structure throughout the process, making sharpening necessary to maintain its performance.