Final answer:
In the Gas Metal Arc Welding (GMAW) process, 100% Argon does not typically produce a spray arc transfer because Argon is a noble gas with low reactivity that's not effective on its own for this transfer type when used with steel.
Step-by-step explanation:
The student asked which of the following gases does not produce a spray arc transfer with the GMAW (Gas Metal Arc Welding) process. A spray arc transfer is a mode of metal transfer in GMAW where small droplets of molten metal are sprayed across the arc from the electrode to the workpiece. In the choices provided, 100% Argon (option b) is the gas that does not typically produce a spray arc transfer. This is because Argon is a noble gas with low reactivity and does not facilitate the transfer type effectively on its own when used with steel. Gases like 80% Argon/20% CO₂, 98% Argon/2% Oxygen, and Helium-rich gases allow for spray arc transfer due to their mixed properties which enhance the arc characteristics. However, pure CO₂ (100% CO₂) can also be unstable for spray transfer because it produces a great deal of spatter and tends to create a globular transfer instead.