Learning Welding Joints

Learning Welding Joints is an Important Part of Welding School

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There are a lot of welding terms that get thrown around which can confuse people inexperienced with welding. It can make welding seem daunting and complicated, but all it takes is a little explanation and things make more sense.

Joint types are one of the areas of welding which can seem very confusing at first glance. When an experienced welder talks about lap joints and edge joints, it may seem like they’re speaking in a different language. Hopefully after reading through this explanation of some basic welding terms, you will have a better understanding of the types of joints and how they are made.

Types of Welding Joints

Butt Joints and Variations

One of the most basic welding joints is the butt joint. This joint is made when two pieces are joined end to end. This weld is usually performed on pieces which are the same size and shape. There are a few variations of this weld as well, including the single-V joint, the double-V joint, and U joints as well. A single-V joint is the same as a butt joint except that one edge on each piece is saved down. When joined together, the shaved edges form a V at the weld, hence the name. In a double-V joint both edges are shaved off each piece, so when joined they make a V on top of the beam and below the beam. U joints (which include single-U and double-U) are the same as V joints, but instead of having a hard line, they have a curve which leads the joints to create a U instead of a V.

Lap Joints

Another type of joint is a lap joint. This joint is similar to how a sign is attached to a sign post. This joint is made when the two pieces are welded with while partially overlapping each other. The pieces used in this weld may be of different shapes and sizes.

Corner Joints, T-Joints, and Cruciform Joints

There are also corner joints. These joints are somewhat self-explanatory. The two pieces of metal are joined to make a corner at a 90% angle. Similar to this joint is the T-joint. As you might have guessed, the pieces are joined similarly to a corner joint, but they make a T instead of a corner. Additionally, sometimes a piece is added on the other side of the T joint to make a + shape. This is referred to as a cruciform joint. Anyone who attends welding school will learn about these welding joints and more.

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This covers the common joints which occur in welding. Hopefully you now have a better understanding of welding techniques and terminology. If you would like to learn even more about welding and start a career in the field of welding, contact Tulsa Welding School today!

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