Red Seal Metal Fabricator (Fitter) Practice Exam

Which type of welding uses a non-consumable electrode?

1. Gas Metal Arc Welding (GMAW)

2. Shielded Metal Arc Welding (SMAW)

3. Tungsten Inert Gas Welding (TIG)

4. Flux-Cored Arc Welding (FCAW)

The correct answer is: Tungsten Inert Gas Welding (TIG)

Tungsten Inert Gas Welding (TIG) is the correct answer because this welding process specifically utilizes a non-consumable tungsten electrode to produce the weld. The tungsten electrode does not melt during the welding process, which allows for greater control over the heat applied to the workpieces. This distinct feature of TIG welding enables the welder to produce high-quality welds with a clean finish, making it ideal for applications that require precision, such as in the aerospace and automotive industries. In contrast, the other welding processes mentioned employ consumable electrodes. Gas Metal Arc Welding (GMAW), for instance, uses a continuously fed wire that melts and becomes part of the weld pool. Similarly, Shielded Metal Arc Welding (SMAW) utilizes consumable electrodes that also melt during the welding process. Flux-Cored Arc Welding (FCAW) operates on the principle of feeding a tubular wire filled with flux, which also melts and contributes to the weld. Each of these methods has distinct applications and benefits, but none utilize a non-consumable electrode like TIG does.