What is meant by a 'balled' end on an electrode?

• A. A tapered tip on the end of the electrode
• B. A flat end on the electrode
• C. A spherical shape on the end of the tungsten
• D. A bent end to hold the arc

Answer: (C)

In TIG welding, the tip shape of the tungsten electrode is what this term describes. When the electrode tip is heated enough to melt, surface tension pulls the molten tungsten into a rounded form, creating a small ball on the end. That rounded, spherical tip is what “balled” means. This shape is distinct from a tapered tip, a flat end, or a bent end, which are different geometries used for other purposes. So the end result is a spherical shape on the end of the tungsten.