When are back welds typically made in relation to groove welds?

Back welds are typically made after groove welds to ensure that the structural integrity and joint strength are maximized. The groove weld, which is the primary weld made to connect two parts, is completed first. This allows for the initial penetration and fusion of the base materials, creating a strong joint.

Once the groove weld is finished, back welding is performed on the opposite side of the joint. This process not only helps to ensure that any potential defects or insufficient penetration in the original groove weld are addressed, but it also provides additional reinforcement to the weld joint. The heat generated during back welding helps to fuse into the previous groove weld, creating a stronger overall joint.

In some cases, the timing and execution of the back weld may be critical for achieving the desired properties such as tensile strength and resistance to cracking or distortion. Thus, the sequence of operations is an important consideration in welding procedures.