Grinding welds

[volsfan]

Does the built up material of the weld offer any benefits or should all welds be ground down. Does it weaken the weld if you grind it down?

[Sberry]

Sometimes yes, some no, maybe yes or no, ha.

[volsfan]

Um...thanks . Could you clarify please! Thank you!!!

[PJinNJ]

Depends

If you welded it for maximum strength then don't grind, if you want strong and pretty then grind. IF the weld was done CORRECTLY even ground, it should be at least as strong as the base metal.

[volsfan]

If you welded it for maximum strength then don't grind, if you want strong and pretty then grind. IF the weld was done CORRECTLY even ground, it should be at least as strong as the base metal.

Thanks for the input. How do you know if it was done correctly? I'm a beginner so any input is appreciated.

[Sberry]

A lot depends on the application, take a guided bend test for example, all ground smooth. All these beam splices ground.

[DannyK]

volsfan,
Give these videos a looksee. They may be of some help:

http://www.tonywelding.com/

[volsfan]

Thanks Danny!

[FormerTankSarge]

Video Link

Thanks for the video link, very good.

[MAC702]

Um...thanks . Could you clarify please! Thank you!!!

He answered it with the same clarity as the question...

[Mr Meck]

Any metal in excess of the parent thickness is a waste.

[Jim-Tx]

It never strengthens a weld to grind it either.

[moya034]

WARNING! WHAT FOLLOWS IS A PERSONAL OPINION BASED ON LITTLE FACT.

If the weld is on something where strength is of the utmost importance, chances are cosmetics are not important and grinding the weld is a bad idea.

If the weld is on something where it's important to have a nice cosmetic finish, then chances are strength isn't the main issue and grinding is OK.

[DannyK]

Thanks Danny!

Your welcome, Volsfan. I am sure those videos will be of help.

To answer your question more directly, I'd practice diligently, then it won't matter if the weld is structural or not with regards to typical requirements.....there will be no need to grind a good weld. With proper practice and proper metal prep, your welds should enhance the appearance and also enhance the strength of the welded area. My $.02

FormerTankSarge, no problem.

[Sberry]

There are lots of places where welds are ground and basically for strength especially where there is working action. These are usually full penetration and they want to eleminate cracking next to the weld. This is not a "no never" or "yes. always" question, sometimes grinding improve the strength. Maybe not in a purely tensile pull but there may be other factors.