Which type of electrode is not consumed during the welding process?

In the context of welding, non-consumable electrodes are designed specifically to remain intact throughout the welding process. These electrodes do not melt or get depleted when subjected to the high heat of welding; instead, they serve to conduct electricity and provide a stable arc. Common examples of non-consumable electrodes include tungsten electrodes used in TIG (Tungsten Inert Gas) welding.

The primary function of non-consumable electrodes is to create and maintain the arc while the welding operation is taking place. Since they do not become part of the weld, they can be reused in multiple welding sessions, making them a practical option for certain welding applications.

In contrast, consumable electrodes are designed to melt away and become part of the weld joint, while electrodes for cutting typically focus on removing material rather than joining pieces. Therefore, non-consumable electrodes stand out as the correct choice in this scenario due to their unique property of not being consumed during the welding process.