Weld Joint Design Selector
An educational guide to the five basic types of weld joints. Learn about their pros, cons, and common applications.
Select a Joint Type
Choose a joint design to learn about its characteristics.
Butt Joint
Two pieces joined in the same plane. Can be a square groove, V-groove, U-groove, etc.
Pros
Good for strength in tension and compression. Can achieve 100% penetration.
Cons
Requires careful edge preparation and alignment.
The Foundation of Fabrication: Joint Design
Before any welding can begin, an engineer or designer must decide how the parts will be joined together. This is known as joint design. The choice of joint type is fundamental and affects the strength of the final product, its cost, and the ease of fabrication. This guide explores the five basic types recognized by the American Welding Society (AWS).