Which of the following is a valid GTAW electrode tip shape?

• A. Clipped
• B. Pointed
• C. Rounded
• D. Square

Answer: (B)

Shaping the tungsten electrode tip is all about how the arc behaves. A pointed tip concentrates the current right at the very end of the electrode, creating a stable, narrow arc that gives precise control and clean welds. This pointed prep is the standard approach taught for most GTAW tasks, so it’s considered a valid and typical tip shape.

Clipped refers to shortening the electrode rather than shaping the tip itself, so it isn’t describing a tip profile. A rounded (ball) tip does exist and is used in some GTAW applications (often with AC on aluminum), but it isn’t the general tip shape emphasized for basic GTAW practice. A square tip isn’t used as a standard GTAW tip geometry.