QUALITY INSPECTION - Ensuring a topnotch weld inspection program

摘要

THERE are a number of reasons to inspect a weld, the most fundamental of which is to determine whether its quality is good enough for its intended application. To evaluate the quality of a weld, it is necessary to have a form of measurement to compare its characteristics and a qualified individual to perform the evaluation. It is not practical to evaluate quality without some form of specified acceptance criteria. It's also not practical for a person who is not well-versed in the necessary procedures to perform this task. Evaluation of weld characteristics includes the size of the weld and the presence of discontinuities. The size of a weld can be extremely important, as it often correlates directly to strength and associated performance. Undersized welds may not withstand stresses applied during service, and oversized welds can produce stress concentrations or contribute to the potential for distortion of a welded component.