A system 11 for controlling an arc welding system 10 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 13 which is within a predetermined threshold size range, The control system 11 is then operative to clamp the current output from the power source 12 so that bridge rupturing occurs at relatively low current levels to thereby significantly reduce spatter during bridge rupturing.