Undercut is a welding defect where the weld bead fails to fully penetrate the joint, resulting in a groove or notch beneath the bead. This can significantly weaken the weld’s strength and integrity. Causes of undercut include excessive weld penetration, improper joint preparation, and welder technique. Proper joint preparation, optimized welding parameters, and skilled welder technique are essential for preventing and controlling undercut. Understanding weld concepts, including joint penetration, weld bead structure, weld zones, and weld metal, is crucial for ensuring weld quality and safety.
