Weldability and weld joint failures

Abstract

Welding plays a prominent role in the fabrication and erection of structures and components in the industry. Weld failures when they do occur, either during fabrication or service, involve considerable rework, apart from production, time and material losses. Hence, it is essential to adopt appropriate welding procedures depending on the material, weld configuration and the service requirement. In addition, the weldability of the material should be established with adequate laboratory tests in order to minimise the tendency towards hot and cold cracking susceptibilities. The mechanisms of such cracking and the tests to be undertaken to evaluate the cracking susceptibility are enumerated in this paper along with a brief report on weld failures and criteria to be adopted for their repair. © 1995 the Indian Academy of Sciences.