Why is it important to maintain proper travel speed in GMAW?

Maintaining proper travel speed in Gas Metal Arc Welding (GMAW) is crucial for ensuring adequate penetration and preventing defects in the weld. When the travel speed is too slow, excessive heat may be introduced, leading to over-penetration, burn-through, or warping of the base materials. Conversely, if the travel speed is too fast, the weld may not have enough heat to penetrate adequately into the base material, resulting in weak welds and a lack of fusion.

Proper travel speed allows for a balanced heat input, which is essential for achieving a sound weld with the desired mechanical properties. It helps create a weld pool that is stable and promotes proper fusion between the filler material and the base metals. Thus, maintaining the correct travel speed is fundamental in preventing defects such as porosity, slag inclusions, and undercut, all of which can compromise the integrity of the welded joint.