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Sometimes, going back to the basics can make the difference between a quality repair and a failed repair. When it comes to welding, destructive testing of the welds ensures the technician is prepared for this crucial step in the repair process.
Why is destructive weld testing important? If a part were to be welded onto a vehicle without testing the welds, there is no way to know if the weld settings and techniques would create an effective weld on the vehicle. Destructive testing allows for a technician to adjust the welder or their techniques in order to produce a quality weld before welding on the vehicle.
Before destructively testing welds, they must first be visually inspected. This test is carried out on pieces of scrap metal from the vehicle or metal that is the same type and thickness of the vehicle. This allows the technician to see whether a weld has proper penetration or if the welder or technique needs to be adjusted. Destructive testing is done by tearing and twisting the test weld. This test shows if a proper weld has been created.
Depending on the metal type, you can learn how to destructively test different kinds of welds, as well as find information on how to identify a proper weld in the courses listed below.
Additional I-CAR Collision Repair News you may find helpful:
- Back-To-Basics: Weld Inspection During The Repair Process
- Selecting The Correct Welding Equipment
- Shunting The Current When Spot Welding
- Welding And MIG Brazing Hotspot
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Article validated in 2025