In GTAW-P, peak amperage should be set to what relative to normal amperage?

• A. 1.5 - 2 times the normal amperage
• B. Equal to normal amperage
• C. Half of normal amperage
• D. 3 times normal amperage

Answer: (A)

In GTAW-P, current is pulsed so energy is delivered in short, high-energy bursts while a lower background current controls the overall heat. The peak amperage should be about 1.5 to 2 times the normal (background) amperage. This higher peak provides enough energy to melt and fuse the metal effectively and establish a stable arc, while the lower background current between pulses helps manage heat input, reducing distortion and the chance of burn-through. If the peak were set to the same as the normal current, you’d lose the pulsing benefit; if it were much higher than 2×, heat input could become excessive and risk distortion.