Which setting is used to control the voltage in GMAW?

The voltage setting on the machine directly controls the voltage in Gas Metal Arc Welding (GMAW). In GMAW, the voltage is crucial as it influences the arc length, the heat input into the workpiece, and the overall stability of the welding arc. When the voltage is set correctly, it helps maintain a stable arc, facilitates good penetration into the base material, and contributes to the quality of the weld bead.

Adjusting the voltage impacts the arc characteristics and can significantly affect the weld’s appearance and integrity. A higher voltage typically leads to a longer arc length, while a lower voltage results in a shorter arc length, affecting the arc's stability and the heat distribution in the weld pool.

While amperage affects the heat of the welding arc and can indirectly influence voltage, the voltage setting is the primary control used for managing the arc voltage directly. Wire feed speed controls the amount of filler material being delivered but does not directly adjust the voltage itself, and the flow rate of shielding gas is essential for protecting the weld area but does not relate to voltage settings.