What defect is created when the parent metal is grooved during the welding process?

The defect created when the parent metal is grooved during the welding process is known as an undercut. An undercut occurs when there is a groove or channel along the edge of the weld bead that can weaken the joint by reducing the effective thickness of the base material. This can happen due to excessive heat, poor welding technique, or incorrect settings of the welding equipment, which cause the molten metal to erode the parent material rather than completely filling in the joint.

This defect compromises the integrity of the weld and can lead to structural issues, especially in load-bearing applications. Addressing undercuts involves adjustments to the welding parameters, such as the speed and angle of travel, to ensure proper fusion without affecting the surrounding metal. Understanding the conditions leading to undercuts is critical for maintaining quality in welding work and achieving strong, reliable welds.