Summarize the advantages and disadvantages of the backhand technique.

Question

What will be an ideal response?

Answer 1

The advantages of the backhand welding technique are:

*Weld bead visibility-It is easy to see the back of the molten weld pool as you are welding, which makes it easier to control the bead shape.

*Travel speed-Because of the larger amount of weld metal being applied, the rate of travel may be slower, making it easier to create a uniform weld.

*Depth of fusion-The arc force and the greater heat from the slower travel rate both increase the depth of weld joint penetration.

The disadvantages of the backhand welding technique are:

*Weld buildup-The weld bead may have a convex, or raised or rounded, shape weld face when you use the backhand technique.

*Postweld finishing-Because of the weld bead shape, more work may be required if the product has to be finished by grinding smooth.

*Joint following-It is harder to follow the joint because of your hand position with the FCAW gun being positioned over the joint, and you may wander from the seam.

*Loss of penetration-An inexperienced welder sometimes directs the wire too far back into the weld pool, causing the wire to build up in the face of the weld pool, reducing joint penetration.