Which bead profile is considered a proper weld bead?

Which bead profile is considered a proper weld bead?

• A. A bead with deep undercut.
• B. A jagged bead.
• C. A uniform, convex crown with smooth toes and no undercut.
• D. A bead that is flat.

Answer: (C)

A proper weld bead should have a uniform cross-section with a slightly convex crown, smooth toes, and no undercut. This shape indicates even heat input and good filler metal deposition, producing a strong, continuous weld with minimal stress risers. An undercut weakens the weld by removing material at the toe, thinning the cross-section where the joint carries stress and making cracks more likely. A jagged bead reflects erratic deposition and poor control, which can lead to slag inclusions or porosity and uneven strength. A flat bead lacks reinforcement and may signal insufficient filler or excessive heat, both of which compromise fatigue resistance. So the uniform, convex crown with smooth toes and no undercut best represents a proper weld bead.

A proper weld bead should have a uniform cross-section with a slightly convex crown, smooth toes, and no undercut. This shape indicates even heat input and good filler metal deposition, producing a strong, continuous weld with minimal stress risers. An undercut weakens the weld by removing material at the toe, thinning the cross-section where the joint carries stress and making cracks more likely. A jagged bead reflects erratic deposition and poor control, which can lead to slag inclusions or porosity and uneven strength. A flat bead lacks reinforcement and may signal insufficient filler or excessive heat, both of which compromise fatigue resistance. So the uniform, convex crown with smooth toes and no undercut best represents a proper weld bead.