What is the effect of attaching the work clamp in FCAW?

• A. It protects from electric shock
• B. It completes the welding circuit
• C. It reduces fumes
• D. It increases deposition rate

Answer: (B)

The work clamp provides the return path for the welding current, completing the electrical circuit. In FCAW, current flows from the power source through the electrode, across the arc into the base metal, and then back through the workpiece to the return terminal via the grounded clamp. Without that grounded connection, the circuit would be open and welding cannot occur. The clamp’s job is grounding and circuit completion; it doesn’t directly reduce fumes or change deposition rate (those depend on flux, shielding, and process parameters).