What is a key characteristic of a cold weld?

A cold weld is characterized primarily by improper penetration and rough edges in the weld area. This occurs when the surfaces to be joined do not reach the necessary temperature for proper bonding, which prevents adequate fusion of the materials. As a result, you see a visibly poor joint with inconsistencies in the surface and a lack of smoothness in the welded area. This is crucial in understanding that a cold weld lacks the reliable strength typically expected from a welded joint due to insufficient fusion between the metal parts.

The smooth and polished appearance is often more associated with well-executed welds. Excessive heat during welding leads to different issues, such as burn-through or warping rather than a cold weld. Perfect fusion, on the other hand, indicates that the weld was successful, which contradicts the very nature of a cold weld. Thus, identifying improper penetration and rough edges is essential when recognizing a cold weld and understanding its implications for structural integrity.