Common Welding Defects Quiz

What is the main focus of welding in flat position 1G?

Which factor should a welder check in accordance with acceptable standards?

What should a welder observe to ensure the weld capping/final pass meets standards?

Why is it important for a welder to avoid excessive penetration during welding?

Which welding parameter should be maintained within allowable tolerances for weld capping/final pass?

What may occur if a welder does not observe welding codes and standards for capping/final pass?

What should a welder write at the beginning of the activity on a separate sheet of paper?

Which section of the activity focuses on the essentials of welding?

Why is it essential to consider the type of metal in the selection of electrode?

What happens if a welder travels too fast during welding?

Which factor plays a significant role in determining the arc length?

In welding, why are angles of the electrode important?

What could be a consequence of using the wrong type of electrode for a particular metal?

Welding Technique Issues

Improper welding technique can cause unfilled corners, cut into the joint, or incomplete filling of the groove joint
Wrong electrode angle can result in uneven weld deposition and overlap
Incorrect amperage, travel speed, and electrode angle can all contribute to poor weld quality
Using the wrong electrode for the desired joint penetration can lead to defects
Dirty or painted base metal, strong winds, and moisture can also affect weld quality

Essential Variables of Welding (SMAW)

There are five essential variables of welding: Current Setting (C), Length of Arc (L), Angle of Electrode (A), Speed of Travel (S), and Selection of Electrode (S)
These essentials must be controlled to produce a quality weld
Remember the five essentials by using the word CLASS (Current, Length, Angle, Speed, and Selection)

Importance of Essential Variables

If these five essentials are not followed, weld discontinuities or defects will occur, such as porosities, overlap, undercut, incomplete fusion, and cracks
The length of an arc is determined by the size of the electrode
A narrow weld bead with pointed ripples can result from too slow travel speed
Welding with too long an arc gap can result in overlapping
Undercutting can occur if the current is set too high

Arc Length and Electrode Angle

The arc length required depends on the size of the electrode used and the welding task
A shorter arc length is required for small-diameter electrodes
The work angle of an electrode is not approximately 90°

Test your knowledge on common welding defects such as unfilled corners, overlapped groove joints, incorrect electrode angles, low amperage, fast travel speed, and improper weave techniques.