Is there a way to convert a weldment to a file that would substantially become a part - so that one could, for example, apply a color to the whole assembly much the same as a part. Any suggestions?
One way would be to start a new part file then select "derived component" from the Part Features menu. Select the weldment file. If the feature color style for each of the weldment assemly parts is set to As Part, then you should be able to set the color style of the derived part file and all parts will change.