What increases when the pedal is depressed in GTAW?

• A. Shielding gas flow
• B. Welding speed
• C. Amperage
• D. Torch temperature

Answer: (C)

In GTAW, the foot pedal is a variable current controller. When you depress it, the electrical current (amperage) delivered to the arc increases. More amperage means more heat input into the metal, which affects the arc temperature, weld pool size, and penetration. Shielding gas flow is typically set with a regulator and stays constant during welding, so it doesn’t automatically rise when you press the pedal. Welding speed isn’t directly controlled by the pedal; it depends on travel technique and settings. Torch temperature will rise with higher current, but the pedal’s direct effect is to increase amperage, which in turn raises heat input.