Clarification on definition of weld joint thickness

[kevlar49]

I have an E-beam weld joint between a bellows and a ring with the configuration shown in the attachment. I have an acceptance criteria of underfill shall be less than 10% of the joint thickness (ref. AMS 2681 para 3.7.6). Is the joint thickness defined by the depth of penetration specified (20mils) or joint thickness as shown in Figure 1? The vendor left a significant crater as shown in Figure 2. That crater is well below the original joint line. Is the threshold 2 mils (10% of 20mils) or 1.6 mils (10% of 16 mils)?

 

[metengr]

In this specific application, I would use the joint thickness of 16mm as determining underfill. The partial penetration weld is connecting the two referenced components, which form the joint. If the underfill was based on weld deposit thickness, it would have been stated as such.

 

[kevlar49]

Thanks metengr. Why would you pick the 16 mils? Are there any references that define the joint thickness for joint configurations?

 

[metengr]

kevlar49;
The reason why I view joint thickness as the esential variable is simply the function of the partial penetration weld in this application.

If you have a weld penetration size requirement to join the two items, which is 20 mils, lack of weld fill would be based on joint thickness regardless if it is a full or partial penetration weld.