What is a disadvantage of chemically sharpening a tungsten electrode?

Chemically sharpening a tungsten electrode involves using acid or similar substances to achieve a sharpened point. One significant disadvantage of this method is that it can produce uneven angles or flat spots on the tungsten tip. This unevenness can affect the stability and quality of the arc when welding, leading to inconsistent performance in the welding process.

When the electrode tip is not adequately pointed or has irregularities, it can result in difficulty maintaining an arc, and may lead to poor weld quality, including issues such as improper arc length and inconsistent bead appearance. Consequently, for applications requiring precision, achieving a uniform and finely pointed tip through traditional mechanical means, such as grinding, is often preferred to ensure optimal welding performance.