What is a typical proper weld bead profile for a welded joint?

What is a typical proper weld bead profile for a welded joint?

• A. A uniform, convex crown with smooth toes and no undercut; consistent width along the joint.
• B. A flat bead with sharp edges.
• C. A bead with pronounced undercut and irregular width.
• D. A narrow concave bead.

Answer: (A)

A proper weld bead should present a smooth, slightly convex crown that sits nicely over the joint, with toes blending smoothly into the base metal and a consistent width along the entire weld. This shape reflects even heat input and good fusion, giving uniform deposition without creating weak spots. Undercut—a groove along the weld toe—weakens the joint by removing base metal and concentrates stress, so a bead with no undercut is desirable. A flat bead with sharp edges or a bead with pronounced undercut and irregular width indicate poor control, lack of fusion, or excessive heat, all of which compromise strength. A narrow, concave bead suggests underfill and insufficient reinforcement. So the described uniform, convex bead with smooth toes, no undercut, and constant width best represents a typical proper weld bead profile.

A proper weld bead should present a smooth, slightly convex crown that sits nicely over the joint, with toes blending smoothly into the base metal and a consistent width along the entire weld. This shape reflects even heat input and good fusion, giving uniform deposition without creating weak spots. Undercut—a groove along the weld toe—weakens the joint by removing base metal and concentrates stress, so a bead with no undercut is desirable. A flat bead with sharp edges or a bead with pronounced undercut and irregular width indicate poor control, lack of fusion, or excessive heat, all of which compromise strength. A narrow, concave bead suggests underfill and insufficient reinforcement. So the described uniform, convex bead with smooth toes, no undercut, and constant width best represents a typical proper weld bead profile.