What is one method to improve GMAW performance in windy conditions?

Erecting barriers to shield from wind is an effective method to improve GMAW performance in windy conditions because wind can significantly disrupt the shielding gas coverage needed for a stable arc and weld quality. Wind can cause shielding gas to disperse, leading to contamination of the weld pool and results in defects such as porosity. By erecting physical barriers, such as screens or walls, welders can create a more controlled environment, helping to maintain the integrity of the shielding gas and providing a stable arc. This results in better bead appearance, penetration, and overall weld quality.

Other methods, while they might have some effect, don't address the fundamental issue of wind affecting gas coverage. For instance, decreasing the gas flow rate might compromise the protection provided by the shielding gas, rather than improving it. Increasing the electrode diameter may alter the weld profile but doesn’t directly mitigate the impact of wind. Changing the welding material could be useful in certain contexts but does not inherently resolve the challenges posed by windy conditions.