Why is cleanliness crucial in GTAW?

Cleanliness is crucial in Gas Tungsten Arc Welding (GTAW) primarily because contaminants on the metal surfaces can lead to poor-quality welds. This welding process relies on the arc created between a non-consumable tungsten electrode and the base material, which melts to form the weld. If the base materials are not clean, any grease, oil, rust, or other contaminants can mix with the molten weld pool, causing issues such as porosity, weak joints, and inclusions.

A clean surface allows for better fusion between the materials, ensuring that the weld is strong and defect-free. This is especially important in applications where the integrity of the weld is critical, such as in aerospace, automotive, and pressure vessel manufacturing. More specifically, cleanliness will help in achieving the desired mechanical properties and aesthetics in the finished weld.