Which statement about arc blow is correct?

Which statement about arc blow is correct?

• A. Increase travel speed to avoid arc wander.
• B. Use proper grounding and avoid running power lines parallel to the weld; reposition the work or ground as needed.
• C. Use larger diameter tungsten.
• D. Decrease shielding gas flow.

Answer: (B)

Arc blow is caused by magnetic forces created by the electrical path and any residual magnetism in the work and equipment, which can push the arc off the weld puddle and make it wander. The most reliable way to control it is to manage the electrical grounding and how the current travels around the joint. Place the ground clamp as close to the weld joint as possible and ensure a clean, solid electrical connection. Keep welding leads and power cables from running parallel to the weld, and if needed, reposition the workpiece or the ground so the current path doesn’t create a strong magnetic field along the weld. These steps reduce the magnetic influence near the arc and help keep the arc aligned with the weld. Other options don’t address the underlying cause. Changing travel speed may alter arc behavior but doesn’t fix the magnetic path. Using a larger diameter tungsten and adjusting shielding gas flow affect other aspects of welding but not arc blow.

Arc blow is caused by magnetic forces created by the electrical path and any residual magnetism in the work and equipment, which can push the arc off the weld puddle and make it wander. The most reliable way to control it is to manage the electrical grounding and how the current travels around the joint. Place the ground clamp as close to the weld joint as possible and ensure a clean, solid electrical connection. Keep welding leads and power cables from running parallel to the weld, and if needed, reposition the workpiece or the ground so the current path doesn’t create a strong magnetic field along the weld. These steps reduce the magnetic influence near the arc and help keep the arc aligned with the weld.

Other options don’t address the underlying cause. Changing travel speed may alter arc behavior but doesn’t fix the magnetic path. Using a larger diameter tungsten and adjusting shielding gas flow affect other aspects of welding but not arc blow.