Higher-current GMAW transfer in which the wire tip forms a point and sheds a steady stream of droplets smaller than the wire diameter with almost no spatter. It needs argon-rich gas, at least about 80 percent argon, and current above a transition level, and the large fluid pool limits it to flat and horizontal positions. Pulsed spray alternates peak and background current to get spray-like transfer at lower average heat in all positions.
Turn it up to spray transfer on the flat fills, it should hiss, not crackle.
Also heard as
- spray arc
- axial spray
Related terms
GMAW
Gas metal arc welding: a continuously fed wire electrode shielded by gas, known in the shop as MIG.
Short-circuit transfer
GMAW mode in which the wire touches the pool and shorts many times a second, giving a cool, controllable arc.
Shielding gas
Gas that protects the arc and molten weld from the surrounding air in GMAW, GTAW and gas-shielded FCAW.
Heat input
Energy delivered to a weld per unit length, calculated from amps, volts and travel speed.