What should the travel angle be for fillet welds in the horizontal position?

• A. 0 to 5 degrees
• B. Between 10 and 25 degrees
• C. 90 degrees
• D. 35 to 45 degrees

Answer: (B)

In the horizontal position, you want a small forward tilt of the electrode to control how the molten metal fills the joint. The recommended travel angle is between ten and twenty-five degrees. This range helps the puddle stay stable and directed into the joint, counteracting gravity that would otherwise cause sagging or an uneven bead.

If the angle is too shallow, the molten metal can run along the surface, producing a ragged bead and poor fusion at the toe. If the angle is too steep, the puddle leans forward too much, making the bead too wide or causing overheating and poor control. The ten to twenty-five degree range strikes a balance, giving good bead shape, proper fusion, and stable travel in the horizontal position.