New Mexico Pipe Fitter Journeyman (JPF) Practice Exam

The welding process that uses a non-consumable electrode and a shielding gas is referred to as?

1. GMAW

2. FCAW

3. MIG

4. GTAW

The correct answer is: GTAW

The welding process that utilizes a non-consumable electrode and a shielding gas is known as Gas Tungsten Arc Welding (GTAW). In GTAW, the tungsten electrode does not melt during the welding process, which distinguishes it from methods that involve consumable electrodes. This process also employs a shielding gas—commonly argon or a mix of gases—to protect the weld area from atmospheric contamination, ensuring a clean and high-quality weld. GTAW is often utilized for its ability to produce precise and visually appealing welds, especially on thin materials or when working with a variety of metals. It is ideal for applications requiring strong, high-quality welds, such as in aerospace or piping systems. Understanding the characteristics and applications of GTAW helps in selecting the appropriate welding process for a given task based on the materials involved and the desired properties of the finished weld.