What is the exposed surface of a weld referred to as?

The exposed surface of a weld is referred to as the weld face. This terminology is important in welding and fabrication as it denotes the part of the weld that is visible on the exterior of the joint after the welding process is completed. The weld face is critical for inspection purposes because it captures the quality of the weld regarding its appearance, size, and potential surface defects.

In contrast, the weld edge typically refers to the border or boundary line where the weld connects to the base materials, not the surface that is seen once the weld is complete. The weld root refers to the deepest point of the weld joint, situated opposite the weld face and often is not visible once the weld is finished, making it a different concept. The term weld surface might seem generic, but it is not explicitly defined in welding standards, whereas the weld face is a commonly accepted term within the industry, ensuring clarity in communication among welders, inspectors, and engineers.