Visual Testing (VT) Practice Exam

What is the fillet weld size primarily based on?

1. effective fillet weld throat

2. length of fillet weld

3. theoretical throat

4. length of fillet weld leg

The correct answer is: length of fillet weld leg

The fillet weld size is primarily determined by the length of the fillet weld leg. In welding terminology, the legs of the fillet weld are the two sides that meet to form the triangular cross-section of the weld. The size of a fillet weld is generally expressed in terms of the leg length, as this dimension directly influences the weld's load-bearing capacity and overall strength. When assessing the integrity and effectiveness of a weld, the leg length plays a crucial role, as it correlates with the amount of weld material deposited and the structural support it can provide. The effective throat and theoretical throat measurements come into play in evaluating a weld's strength, but the leg length is the foundational criterion used to define the weld size. Options related to throat measurements, while important in specific calculations regarding weld strength, depend on the leg length and are typically derived from it rather than being the primary determination of weld size itself.