What does arc welding deposition efficiency measure?

Arc welding deposition efficiency specifically measures how effectively the filler metal is deposited into the weld joint compared to the amount of filler metal that is melted during the welding process. It is quantified as the ratio of the weight of filler metal deposited to the weight of filler metal that is melted. This metric is crucial because it indicates how much of the filler metal contributes to the actual weld versus how much is lost during the process due to spatter or other factors. High deposition efficiency means more of the melted filler metal is utilized in the weld joint, which can improve the overall efficiency and economics of the welding process.

This concept is significant for welders and inspectors as it directly impacts the quality and cost-effectiveness of welding operations. Understanding and optimizing deposition efficiency can lead to stronger welds and reduced material waste, which is a critical consideration in many welding applications.