What Does
Weld Seam Inspection Mean?
A weld seam inspection is an inspection or test technique used to determine if any flaws exist in a welded joint. The weld seam inspection also checks the external appearance of a weld seam to evaluate the quality of a welded joint. Weld seam inspection is performed using non-destructive testing (NDT) techniques.
Weld seam inspection is also known as weld seam testing.
Corrosionpedia Explains Weld Seam Inspection
There are various test methods and procedures for weld seam inspections, including:
- Visual inspection
- Positive material identification
- Dye penetrant testing
- Magnetic particle testing
- Radiographic testing
- Ultrasonic testing
- Hardness testing
- Vacuum testing
- Corrosion protection testing (cross cutting, thickness measuring)
Some defects that can be detected from a weld seam inspection are:
- Cracks in or next to the seam
- Arc strikes next to the seam
- Spatter
- Unfilled end craters
- Faulty weld toe
- Undercuts on both sides of the root
- Undercuts on both sides at the top of the seam
- Irregular seam width or root penetration
- Incomplete root penetration
- Excessive reinforcement
- Excessive sink marks in the welding seam
- Faulty weld pattern (rippling pitch ratio)
- Discoloration in the welding area
- Pores on the surface