DIFFERENT JOINTS YOU MAY ENCOUNTER

A lap-joint involves placing one plate over another; even if the plate is ‘joggled’ to produce a step. You can buy edge setter/ joggling tools. The welding torch is held at a 45° angle, as shown. This tends to result in a strong joint.

A T-joint involves the torch being held at 45° to the joint, then tilted by 15-20° in the direction of the intended weld to maximise visibility and create a flatter weld profile.

Positioning two plates together creates a butt joint; when touching, this is a closed butt type but an open butt (or root gap) in which a space exists, creates a stronger weld, at the risk of overheating and burning through the material.

Pictured are two other examples of butt joints. Note that small tack welds are applied to either side to hold the plates in position before the join is welded continuously.