What are the benefits of pulsing and/or amperage ramping in GTAW and when would you use them?

• A. Pulsing increases heat input and should be avoided on thick sections.
• B. Pulsing reduces heat input and distortion and improves bead control on thick sections; ramping helps with gentle current transitions during start/finish or when filling complex joints; use on heat-sensitive materials or thick welds.
• C. Ramping is only used for cosmetic appearance.
• D. Pulsing has no effect on bead control.

Answer: (B)