What is a potential drawback of using weave patterns in welding?

Using weave patterns in welding can indeed increase the risk of undercutting. When a welder employs a weaving technique, the arc moves back and forth across the joint, which can create a wider and flatter bead. However, this movement can also concentrate the heat at the edges of the weld pool more than on the base metal itself.

Undercutting occurs when the base metal adjacent to the weld puddle is melted away, resulting in a groove or depression along the edges of the weld. Weaving may allow for broader coverage, but if not managed correctly, it can lead to insufficient fill in these areas and create undercut, which compromises the strength and integrity of the weld.

In contrast, options that mention decreased heat input, requiring less skill, or producing straighter welds do not accurately reflect the implications of using a weave pattern. Weave patterns typically increase heat input due to the extended time spent over the weld joint, they often require a higher level of skill to execute effectively, and they do not inherently guarantee straighter welds.