Weld failures can occur in any number of ways and are often caused by simple oversights in the welding operation. In many cases, those oversights can result from lack of proper training about the techniques required for welding on a particular material or joint style. Regardless of the reason, the result is the same. Issues like hot and cold cracking toweld defects like lack of sidewall fusion, slag inclusions or cold lap result can occur, causing delays in production and downtime for rework of parts. Both problems adversely affect the welding operation’s overall productivity and profitability. When a part is rejected for a weld failure, a company incurs the time, labor and cost of identifying and rectifying the problem. Not only that, but the company also runs a greater risk of compromising safety should a weld fail in a particularly critical application.
There are, however, precautions welding operators can take to protect against weld failures. Such provisions can help mitigate unnecessary costs, support greater productivity and help the welding operation remain more competitive.
Following are six key ways to prevent weld failures.