Welding Imperfections Procedures and Techniques 

Abstract

What are Welding Defects?

Welding Defects can be defined as the irregularities formed in the given weld metal due to the wrong welding process or incorrect welding patterns, etc. The defect may differ from the desired weld bead shape, size, and intended quality.

Basically, welding defects include any flaws that compromise the quality of the weld. They can be defined as occurring any time there is a deviation in the size and shape of the metal structure that affects technical and design requirements.

A defect can occur at any stage of the welding process. They can be either internal or external. Internal defects are not visible. They include defects such as slag inclusion, incomplete penetration, and incomplete fusion.

External defects are more easily detectable because they can be seen on the metal surface itself. They include cracks, undercuts, porosity, spatter, and overlaps. Let’s take a look at some of these external defects.

What are weld discontinuities?

Discontinuity is an interruption in the typical physical structure of a material that sharply changes its properties. Thus, the simple variation of properties does not characterize a discontinuity. However, only discontinuities that exceed the tolerance limit should be considered welding defects.

Thus, a weld with a particular crack can be considered approved or disapproved for different applications.

Keywords: welding, pipeline, Petroleum industry