What is an undercut weld?

An undercut weld is characterized by a single bead that features a space along its edges. This occurs when the welding process creates a groove or depression in the base metal at the edges of the weld, rather than a smooth transition between the weld and the base material. This can lead to interference with the integrity and strength of the weld, as the absence of sufficient filler metal at the edges can create weak points that are prone to failure. In the context of welding practices, recognizing and avoiding undercut welds is crucial for ensuring that the welds meet quality and structural integrity standards.