What must be done when corners of slots are provided for fillet welding?

What must be done when corners of slots are provided for fillet welding?

• A. The corners must be fillet welded and welds extend completely around the periphery
• B. The corners may be left unfilled unless specified
• C. Only the inner corners must be filleted
• D. The corners must be ground flush and not welded

Answer: (A)

When a slot is provided for fillet welding, the corners are treated as part of the weld path and need to be welded around the entire edge. Filleting the corners and extending the weld around the full periphery creates a continuous, solid joint that can transfer load uniformly and helps prevent stress concentrations at the sharp slot corners, which are potential crack initiation points. Leaving corners unfilled, only welding inner corners, or grinding the weld flush would leave gaps or reduced weld throat, weakening the connection and increasing the risk of fatigue cracks. Welding the corners around the full perimeter provides the proper strength and integrity for the joint.

When a slot is provided for fillet welding, the corners are treated as part of the weld path and need to be welded around the entire edge. Filleting the corners and extending the weld around the full periphery creates a continuous, solid joint that can transfer load uniformly and helps prevent stress concentrations at the sharp slot corners, which are potential crack initiation points. Leaving corners unfilled, only welding inner corners, or grinding the weld flush would leave gaps or reduced weld throat, weakening the connection and increasing the risk of fatigue cracks. Welding the corners around the full perimeter provides the proper strength and integrity for the joint.