Factors that affect the quality of a weld
The quality of a weld can mean different things depending on the requirements of clients. In some cases, a quality weld means a consistent weld that enhances aesthetics. On the other hand, engineers would prefer a strong seal that remains impervious to outside influences. Weld quality is affected by several different factors that are always taken into account by welding fabrication Toronto. The most important factors include the size and type of weld, edge preparation, metal thickness, reinforcement members and distortion. Each of the above factors can affect and change the process of welding. For example, distortion is one of the most common issues faced by welding fabrication. Distortion is encountered when welding light gage sheet metal. In order to minimize distortion, reinforcement is often used however; the welder also needs to consider other factors like weld location, clamping and fixturing of the assembly and the selection of a less heat-constrained welding process. Edge preparation is another significant factor as it can affect the quality of the weld.
Welders have knowledge on the basic process of welding including equipment, materials and techniques but they should also focus on how to weld efficiently and effectively by ensuring that there is proper joint design. In a welded steel design, loads are transferred from one member to another through the weld placed in the weld joints. Both the type of the joint and weld are usually specified in the fabrication design. Welding fabrication ensures proper edge preparation according to each type of weld. The thickness of the metal plates usually determines the type of edge preparation. For example, sheet metal easily melts so that it does not require special edge preparation but when welding fabrication involves metal plates, it is important to take into account joint edge preparation and proper spacing between edges.
The faces of a square edge can be butted together and welded particularly on plates that measure up to 3/16 of inch in thickness. Plates that are more than ¼ inch in thickness will require beveled edges and root openings of 1/16” between the parts to ensure complete penetration. If oxy-gas welding will be used on plates that are more than ¼” in thickness, the edges must be beveled at an angle of 30 to 45 degrees to make a groove included angle from 60 to 90 degrees. Edges can be prepared through flame cutting, shearing, flame grooving, machining, chipping or grinding. Welding fabrication always ensures that edge preparation is both cost effective and efficient.