Weld Surface Finish Estimator
An educational tool to understand the factors influencing the final appearance and surface finish of a weld bead.
Beyond Strength: The Aesthetics of a Weld
While the primary purpose of a weld is structural integrity, its appearance is often a strong indicator of its quality. A smooth, uniform weld bead with a consistent ripple pattern suggests that the welder had good control over their process. In some applications, like architectural stainless steel or custom automotive work, the "cosmetic" appearance of the weld is just as important as its strength.
What is the "Stack of Dimes" Look?
This famous term refers to the desirable appearance of a TIG weld, where the ripple pattern looks like a neatly stacked roll of dime coins. It is achieved by a highly skilled welder with excellent control over heat input, travel speed, and the rhythmic dabbing of the filler rod.