The need for a weld quality system for fatigue loaded structures

Historically, production technology researchers and structural design researchers have had only limited dialogue and each group has focused on their own narrow field of interest. However, the drive to increase welding speed and the desire to increase the use of higher strength steel for fatigue-loaded structures have led to the development of an integrated research approach that includes joint efforts in several key technologies: high-speed welding processes, high strength materials, cost-effective NDE, post-weld treatments and FE-based design assessment tools. The current paper focuses on the need to develop a suitable classification system for high quality welds. Current weld quality systems for welds were developed primarily with static loading in mind and are not directly suitable for fatigue loaded components. The need for a multi-technical approach and implementation of a design for purpose philosophy are emphasised.