Characterization of Spatter in Low-Current GMAW of Titanium Alloy Plate The single stable cathode spot on the base metal, unique to CMA-welded titanium, causes spattering

Severe spattering occurs in low-current GMAW of titanium and tita­ nium alloys. For example, 1.6-mm (Vi6-in.) diameter Ti-6AI-4V welding wire spatters at direct current electrode-positive (DCEP) welding currents of less than 240 A, eject­ ing almost 20% of the filler metal from the weld. Using a high-speed camera, an analysis of metal-droplet transfer in the welding arc was carried out to determine the cause of the spatter. Spattering is not a result of the plasma