What could be a result of poor fit-up in welding?

The presence of poor fit-up in welding can lead to a higher risk of defects such as gaps. When components to be welded do not align properly or fit together snugly, it creates spaces between them that the weld metal cannot fill adequately. This can result in incomplete fusion, voids, or lack of penetration, which significantly compromises the integrity and strength of the weld joint. Additionally, gaps can lead to contamination from the atmosphere or the base materials themselves, further degrading the quality of the weld.

In contrast, proper fit-up ensures consistent contact between the pieces being joined, which promotes stronger, more reliable welds. Recognizing the importance of fit-up helps welders achieve high-quality results and ultimately ensures the longevity and safety of the welded structures.