Forehand welding

From GAWDAwiki

Forehand welding, also known as puddle or ripple welding, is used when the rod precedes the flame, staying ahead of it in the direction in which the weld is made.

Forehand welding is well-suited for welding sheet and light plate up to 1/8 inch thick. Benefits include improved control of the small weld puddle and smoother welds.

Forehand welding is not recommended for use on thicker plates due to insufficient base metal penetration.^[1]

Forehand welding also leads to a quicker welding process.^[2]

The opposite of forehand welding is backhand welding.

References

1. http://www.sweethaven.com/sweethaven/BldgConst/Welding/lessonmain.asp?lesNum=5&modNum=3
2. http://www.esabna.com/EUWeb/MIG_handbook/592mig7_4.htm