The angle between the electrode and the normal face of the weld is called the ______.

• A. Travel angle
• B. Work angle
• C. Bevel angle
• D. Toe angle

Answer: (A)

In welding, the orientation of the electrode is described by angles that describe how you tilt the electrode relative to the joint as you move along it. The angle between the electrode and the normal to the weld face is called the travel angle. This tilt is in the direction of travel and influences how the arc approaches the joint, affecting penetration and bead shape. Tilt the electrode forward in the direction of travel to deepen fusion and widen the bead; tilt it back to reduce penetration.

The other terms relate to different orientations: the work angle is the tilt across the joint relative to the weld face, used to shape the bead within the joint; the bevel angle refers to the edge preparation of the plate; the toe angle describes the angle at the ends of the weld bead and how it runs into the base metal.