The filler rod end must be kept inside the protective zone.

• A. Not sure
• B. Depends
• C. FALSE
• D. TRUE

Answer: (D)

In GTAW, shielding gas forms a protective envelope around the arc, weld pool, and the point where filler metal is introduced. Keeping the filler rod end inside that protective zone ensures the molten filler enters the weld under inert atmosphere, preventing contamination from air. If the rod end dips outside the shield, oxygen from the surrounding air can oxidize the filler as it melts, leading to porosity, poor fusion, and weaker welds. So, the statement is true because maintaining the filler inside the shielding gas is essential for a clean, sound weld. Practically, feed the rod smoothly into the leading edge of the puddle while staying within the gas envelope and maintaining a consistent arc length to preserve continuous shielding.