Is there a limitation on maximum size of fillet weld?
Is there a limitation on maximum size of fillet weld?
(OP)
Looking at AWSD1.1 table 5.8 Note B states ...except that the weld size need not exceed the thickness of the thinner part joined.
That statement does not say shall not exceed as it does for groove weld. Please advise.
That statement does not say shall not exceed as it does for groove weld. Please advise.





RE: Is there a limitation on maximum size of fillet weld?
No need to make a stronger weld than the surrounding structure can handle.
RE: Is there a limitation on maximum size of fillet weld?
RE: Is there a limitation on maximum size of fillet weld?
In the as-welded condition, it is the responsibility of the AWS Welding Inspector [to comply with D1.1, an Inspector and full inspection are mandatory] to determine if excess weld metal is detrimental. If the Inspector is not sure if a particular instance is detrimental, he/she is to ask the Engineer-of-Record.
RE: Is there a limitation on maximum size of fillet weld?
Try looking on page 5 of this link it refs AISC
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RE: Is there a limitation on maximum size of fillet weld?
RE: Is there a limitation on maximum size of fillet weld?
He'll stop talking then.
RE: Is there a limitation on maximum size of fillet weld?
So if your fabricator is telling you that he wants to make a bigger weld you should discuss the situation with him.
He might know something, even if he can't articulate it.
RE: Is there a limitation on maximum size of fillet weld?
RE: Is there a limitation on maximum size of fillet weld?
RE: Is there a limitation on maximum size of fillet weld?
The reference noted by desertfox, for maximum fillet sizes, is for lap joints. For material 1/4" or less the leg size can equal the full thickness of the lapped edge. For larger thicknesses a 1/16 edge should remain. In these cases, I have seen welds built-up and transitioned. But, this also would be inefficient for most structural conditions, as the base metal would not match the weld strength.
http://www.FerrellEngineering.com
RE: Is there a limitation on maximum size of fillet weld?
He might know something, even if he can't articulate it.
Or he has created a massive fillet weld to overcome a large "hole" or gap between the two parts that should have been properly fitted together with no gap at all ..... But I'm "jest" a little bit cynical. 8<)
RE: Is there a limitation on maximum size of fillet weld?
If your fabricator is telling you before he starts welding that he wants to....
RE: Is there a limitation on maximum size of fillet weld?
OR
You could argue and say, that he is not within acceptable tolerances. And because of that, he either needs to replace the out of tolerance parts or hire a licnesed engineer to review the situation and assume responsibility for the part in question.
RE: Is there a limitation on maximum size of fillet weld?
thickness of base metal for metal less than 1/4" thick
and 1/16 less than thickness of base metal for metal > 1/4" thick unless it is designated on dwg to be built out to obtain full throat thickness
RE: Is there a limitation on maximum size of fillet weld?
I usually design HSS sections for about 70% to 80% of the capacity just to avoid using a CJP weld...
Dik
RE: Is there a limitation on maximum size of fillet weld?
There is no basis for rejecting an oversized fillet weld in any of the AWS D1.x structural welding codes.
Should a third party inspector ask that an oversized fillet weld be reduced by grinding or otherwise, I would comply, but I would bill his employer for the cost of handling, reworking the welds, and repainting plus any additions costs incurred for unnecessary rework or repairs. I've done it before and it can be very profitable.
Make sure you are not reading into the code requirements something that is not there. It can cost the inspector his job when the employer or owner receives a sizable bill for unnecessary rework.
I am not an advocate of making larger than necessary fillet welds, but I caution inspectors not to apply requirements that cannot be substantiated by a code or contract requirement. A recommendation is not the same as a requirement.
Best regards - Al