What is the primary reason for controlling the temperature in welding?

Controlling the temperature in welding is crucial primarily to avoid distortion in the metal. When metals are heated, they expand, and upon cooling, they contract. If the temperature is not properly managed during the welding process, differential heating can lead to warping and distortion of the welded components. This can compromise the structural integrity and fit of the parts being joined together.

Maintaining a consistent and controlled temperature ensures that the heat is evenly distributed, allowing for a stronger and more reliable weld. Proper temperature control helps to minimize internal stresses that arise during the heating and cooling cycles, which can lead to undesirable shapes or alignment issues after the weld has solidified. Therefore, the focus on avoiding distortion highlights the importance of temperature management in achieving high-quality welds.