Welding Cracks: The Silent Threat to Structural Integrity ⚠️🛠️ Cracks in welds are among the most critical defects in metal fabrication. Unlike other imperfections, cracks can propagate under stress, potentially leading to catastrophic failure if left undetected. 🔍 What Causes Welding Cracks? High residual stress during cooling Poor joint design or preparation Incorrect welding parameters (heat, speed, or material) Impurities like sulfur, phosphorus, or hydrogen 🔧 Prevention Tips: Preheat thicker materials to reduce thermal stress Use the correct filler metal and welding technique Implement proper joint design and stress-relief methods Conduct regular inspections with NDT techniques like ultrasonic or magnetic particle testing Cracks may be small, but their impact can be massive. Let's keep learning, inspecting, and perfecting our welds to ensure long-lasting, safe structures. 🗣️ Have you ever dealt with weld cracks? What strategies helped you resolve them? Share your insights below! #qualityassurance #welding #manufacturing #engineering #ndt #metalfabrication #industrialsafety #weldingandfabrication