Visual Testing (VT) Practice Exam

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Which of the following best describes 'undercut' in welding?

A groove melted into the base material adjacent to a weld.
A type of filler used in welding.
Excessive application of heat.
A discontinuity caused by trapped gases.

The correct answer is: A groove melted into the base material adjacent to a weld.

The term 'undercut' in welding refers to the phenomenon where a groove is melted into the base material adjacent to a weld. This occurs when the heat from the welding process is too high or poorly controlled, leading to a removal of material along the edge of the weld. This can weaken the structure, as the undercut reduces the thickness of the material at critical stress points. Recognizing an undercut is essential for weld quality assessment, because it can significantly affect the integrity and durability of the weld joint. Proper technique and control of welding parameters are imperative to avoid undercuts. Providing sufficient heat input without exceeding the necessary levels helps in achieving a strong and effective weld without melting away the adjacent base material.