Where should the filler metal be added when manually welding with GTAW?

When manually welding with Gas Tungsten Arc Welding (GTAW), the filler metal should be added at the leading edge of the weld pool. This practice allows for the controlled melting of the filler rod into the weld pool, which promotes proper fusion between the base material and the filler metal.

Adding filler metal at the leading edge ensures that it effectively merges with the molten pool, allowing for a smoother transition and better integration of the weld. This technique aids in maintaining the stability of the weld pool and prevents issues such as contamination or insufficient fusion that can arise from introducing filler metal in less optimal locations.

Positioning the filler metal at the leading edge also gives the welder better visibility and control, allowing for adjustments as needed during the welding process. This careful manipulation is crucial for achieving high-quality welds that meet the required specifications and standards.