Which characteristic is true regarding the control of heat in GTAW?

In Gas Tungsten Arc Welding (GTAW), one of the most significant characteristics is its ability to offer precise heat control. This precision is primarily due to the nature of the process, which employs a non-consumable tungsten electrode and allows the welder to manipulate the arc length and travel speed effectively. The welder can adjust the amount of heat input to the workpiece very finely, enabling the fusion of the materials without excessive penetration or distortion.

This level of control makes GTAW particularly suited for welding thin materials and critical components where the integrity of the weld is paramount. The ability to precisely manage the heat input also helps in controlling the cooling rates and, consequently, the metallurgical properties of the weld joint, leading to better overall quality and performance of the welded materials.