What is the Forehand Welding Technique?
The forehand welding technique involves the welding torch’s tip being moved in the same direction as the welding rod, which results in wide semicircular movements of both.
These movements produce opposite oscillations. To preheat the joint edges, the flame is directed downwards in the welding direction. The movements of both the torch and the rod are wide and semicircular, resulting in opposite oscillating movements. This technique is characterized by pointing the flame in the direction of the welding but slightly downward to preheat the edges of the joint.
Forehand Welding Technique is also known as Puddle Welding or Ripple Welding.
Related reading: Welding Techniques: Leftward Welding and Rightward Welding
Difference between forehand and backhand welding
| Forehand Welding | Backhand Welding |
|---|---|
| The welding torch’s tip follows the welding rod in the direction of the weld being made. | The welding torch’s tip moves ahead of the welding rod in the direction opposite to the weld. |
| Wide, semicircular movements of the welding torch and the welding rod, producing opposite oscillations. | Narrower movements of the welding torch and the welding rod. |
| The flame is pointed in the direction of the welding but slightly downward, preheating the edges of the joint. | The flame is pointed in the direction opposite to the welding, heating the base metal ahead of the weld. |
| Used for welding thin materials or for making a root pass in a joint. | Used for welding thicker materials or for filling in a weld bead. |
| Generally results in less penetration and a wider bead. | Generally results in deeper penetration and a narrower bead. |
Forehand welding advantages
Forehand welding main advantages are:
- Improved visibility to welder: Because the welding torch follows the welding rod, the welder has a better view of the weld pool and the joint being welded.
- Greater control on weld puddle: The wide, sweeping movements of the torch and rod in forehand welding allow for more precise control of the weld puddle, resulting in a smoother and more consistent weld bead.
- Reduced distortion during welding: Forehand welding produces less heat and has a lower amperage, which can help reduce distortion and warping in the workpiece.
- Best Suitable for thin materials: Forehand welding is often used for welding thinner materials, as the wider, more shallow penetration of the weld helps prevent burn-through and other issues.
- Increased welding travel speed: Forehand welding can be performed at a faster travel speed than other welding techniques, which can save time and increase productivity.
