Welding cannot take place when the ambient temperature is below what value?

Welding cannot take place when the ambient temperature is below what value?

• A. -20 degrees
• B. -5 degrees
• C. 0 degrees
• D. 5 degrees

Answer: (C)

Welding depends on keeping the metal and the surroundings warm enough to avoid moisture and brittleness causing defects. When the ambient temperature is at or below freezing, moisture in the air and in electrode coatings can condense or freeze on surfaces, and the metal itself is more brittle. This increases the risk of porosity, hydrogen cracking, and poor fusion. Because of these quality and safety concerns, the standard guideline is that welding cannot take place below 0 degrees Celsius. In warmer conditions you can weld, though you may still use precautions like proper preheating in colder work to prevent issues.

Welding depends on keeping the metal and the surroundings warm enough to avoid moisture and brittleness causing defects. When the ambient temperature is at or below freezing, moisture in the air and in electrode coatings can condense or freeze on surfaces, and the metal itself is more brittle. This increases the risk of porosity, hydrogen cracking, and poor fusion. Because of these quality and safety concerns, the standard guideline is that welding cannot take place below 0 degrees Celsius. In warmer conditions you can weld, though you may still use precautions like proper preheating in colder work to prevent issues.