A welding inspections allows many characteristics of a weld to be evaluated. Factors such as the weld size and weld discontinuities can be analysed and assessed which is important for maintaining the standards of a quality construction.
When inspecting a weld, the size of a weld is often an important consideration. The weld size can often relate directly to the weld’s strength and associated performance, since undersized weld’s may not withstand stresses applied during service. Weld discontinuities are also important as these are imperfections. Too many discontinuities within or adjacent to the weld, may prevent the weld from meeting its intended performance.
Typically discontinuities, when of unacceptable size or location, are referred to as welding defects, and can sometimes cause premature weld failure through reduction of the weld strength or through producing stress concentrations within the welded component. Any kind of failure during a weld inspection often results in the discard or re-assembly of that construction.