What is one characteristic of a properly designed weld joint?

A properly designed weld joint incorporates considerations for thermal expansion, making this characteristic essential for preventing issues during the heating and cooling process that occurs during welding. When materials are heated, they expand, and when they cool, they contract. If a weld joint does not accommodate this thermal movement, it can lead to stresses that may result in cracks, distortion, or failure of the weld. Therefore, designing a joint that allows for thermal expansion is crucial to ensure the long-term integrity and functionality of the welded structure.

While a weld joint being strong in tension is important, it must also possess strength in other types of forces, like shear and compression, to be truly well-designed. Uniform thickness across the joint can enhance strength and consistency, but it is not the sole defining characteristic of a well-designed weld joint. A decorative finish can improve aesthetic quality but does not contribute directly to the performance or reliability of the weld itself. Thus, the proper accounting for thermal expansion stands out as a critical aspect in the design of weld joints.