NEIEP Mechanics Practice Exam

How can a continuous weld affect a cylinder joint as it cools?

1. It creates a stronger joint

2. It will bend as it cools

3. It prevents corrosion

4. It facilitates fluid flow

The correct answer is: It will bend as it cools

A continuous weld can have significant effects on a cylinder joint as it cools, particularly in terms of distortion and bending. When welding, the heat applied to the metal causes it to expand. As the weld cools, the metal contracts. If the cylinder joint is constrained or the metal has uneven cooling due to the continuous nature of the weld, it can lead to stress within the structure. This stress may cause the joint to bend or warp, a phenomenon often referred to as thermal distortion. Understanding this behavior is crucial in welding applications to prevent misalignment and failure due to induced stresses. Various techniques, such as preheating or post-weld heat treatment, can be used to address these issues by controlling the cooling rates and reducing the thermal stresses produced during the welding process.