What type of arc welding is known as gas metal arc welding (GMAW)?

Gas metal arc welding (GMAW) is a welding process that employs a continuously fed solid MIG wire electrode and an inert or semi-inert gas for shielding purposes. The correct answer highlights that GMAW is synonymous with gas metal arc welding, where the term "gas metal" effectively describes the method of using a gas to protect the molten weld puddle from contaminants in the air.

This process allows for versatility in welding, enabling the joining of various metal types with high speed and producing a clean weld with minimal post-weld cleaning needed. GMAW is widely used in the fabrication and automotive industries due to its efficiency and the quality of the weld it produces.

In contrast, the other processes mentioned have distinct characteristics that do not align with GMAW. For instance, gas tungsten arc welding is known for its use of a non-consumable tungsten electrode and is more suited for precise, high-quality welding of thin materials. Submerged arc welding is characterized by a flux-covered arc that is typically used in heavier welding applications and also involves a different method of applying heat. Shielded metal arc welding relies on a consumable electrode coated in flux and has a different gas shielding mechanism, usually providing a more rudimentary method compared to GMAW