What is a potential outcome of overheating your weld during GTAW?

Overheating a weld during Gas Tungsten Arc Welding (GTAW) can lead to weakened joint integrity. When excessive heat is applied to the weld area, it can cause significant changes in the microstructure of the base material and the weld metal. This overheating can result in grain growth, which makes the material less ductile and more brittle, ultimately compromising the strength and reliability of the weld.

Additionally, an overheated weld may lead to problems like porosity and inclusions, further negatively affecting the mechanical properties of the welded joint. Thus, maintaining the appropriate heat input is crucial for ensuring the integrity and overall performance of the weldment.