In GTAW, what does the term “puddle” refer to?

In Gas Tungsten Arc Welding (GTAW), the term “puddle” specifically refers to the molten material created during the welding process. As the arc is established between the tungsten electrode and the base metal, the intense heat generated causes the base material to melt, forming a small pool of molten metal. This pool is critical for the welding process because it must be carefully controlled to ensure proper fusion of the materials being welded together, allowing for effective and strong joint formation. The puddle allows the filler material to be added, if used, and the welder manipulates this puddle to achieve the desired bead shape and penetration. Understanding the characteristics and control of the puddle is essential for producing high-quality welds in GTAW.