Striking an arc, known as an arc strike, can be done in the weld area or on the surface of the base metal near the weld area.

Striking an arc, known as an arc strike, can be done in the weld area or on the surface of the base metal near the weld area.

• A. True
• B. False
• C. Not Applicable
• D. Sometimes

Answer: (B)

Arc strike is an unintended burn on the base metal caused by the welding arc contacting metal outside the intended weld bead. The weld area is where fusion is supposed to occur, so you don’t intentionally strike an arc in the weld zone. If an arc touches the surface of the base metal near the joint, it creates a burn or crater that’s considered a defect. For that reason, arc strikes aren’t something done in or on the weld area on purpose; they’re unwanted damage that can affect the joint’s quality.

Arc strike is an unintended burn on the base metal caused by the welding arc contacting metal outside the intended weld bead. The weld area is where fusion is supposed to occur, so you don’t intentionally strike an arc in the weld zone. If an arc touches the surface of the base metal near the joint, it creates a burn or crater that’s considered a defect. For that reason, arc strikes aren’t something done in or on the weld area on purpose; they’re unwanted damage that can affect the joint’s quality.