Welding control system

The present invention relates generally to welding and more specifically to a control system for use in arc welding operating in the short circuit (or dip) transfer mode. A system for controlling an arc welding system operating in a dip transfer mode is disclosed. The control system is operative to control the current output from a power source so as to apply a current pulse during the arcing phase of the welding system which is operative to form a molten droplet on the electrode of the welding torch which is within a predetermined threshold size range, The control system is then operative to clamp the current output from the power source so that bridge rupturing occurs at relatively low current levels to thereby significantly reduce spatter during bridge rupturing.