Weld Inspection and Testing Flashcards

Which discontinuity type is characterized by a void running along the length of a weld, parallel to the weld axis?

Answer: Longitudinal crack

A longitudinal crack runs parallel to the weld axis and is one of the most serious weld discontinuities.

What does a high-frequency ultrasonic testing (UT) transducer measure to detect internal flaws?

Answer: Sound wave reflections

UT transducers emit high-frequency sound waves and detect reflected signals (echoes) from internal discontinuities.

During visual inspection, what condition describes weld metal that extends beyond the toe of the weld onto the base metal without fusing?

Answer: Cold lap

Cold lap (also called overlap) occurs when molten weld metal flows onto the base metal surface without fusing due to insufficient heat.

Which destructive test is used to determine the maximum load a weld can withstand before fracturing?

Answer: Tensile test

The tensile test measures a weld's ultimate tensile strength by pulling a specimen until it fractures.

What is the primary purpose of a nick-break test?

Answer: Reveal internal porosity and fusion defects

The nick-break test fractures a weld specimen to expose the cross-section, revealing porosity, slag inclusions, and incomplete fusion.

In radiographic testing (RT), a darker area on the radiograph compared to the surrounding weld typically indicates:

Answer: A void or less dense area such as porosity

Less dense areas (voids, porosity) allow more radiation to pass through, producing darker images on the radiograph.

Which AWS standard governs structural welding of steel and provides acceptance criteria for welds?

Answer: AWS D1.1

AWS D1.1 Structural Welding Code—Steel specifies requirements and acceptance criteria for structural steel welds.