Can pulse welding be performed with or without filler metal?

• A. With or without filler metal
• B. Only with filler metal
• C. Only without filler metal
• D. Not possible

Answer: (A)

Pulse welding uses pulsed current to control heat input and arc behavior, and it does not require using filler metal. You can weld autogenously, where the base metals melt and fuse without adding material, which is common for thin sections or tightly fitted joints. You can also weld with filler metal when the joint needs extra material, to build up the seam, compensate for a larger gap, or tailor the weld metal properties. The pulsing helps manage heat and distortion in either case, so both options are valid.