Heat input shows up after the hood comes up
Explain how weld sequence, restraint, travel speed, and bead size influence distortion risk.
The move: predict the pull before you weld. Heat input matters because metal expands and contracts. The weld area contracts as it cools, and that contraction pulls on the base metal. Long, oversized, one-sided welds concentrate shrinkage. Restraint can hold shape during welding but may store stress or cause movement when unclamped. Identify the objective Name the thing that must stay true: square, flat, aligned, gap-controlled, or dimensionally stable. If you do not name it, you will only notice distortion after it costs time. Identify the risk source Ask where heat and weld metal will be added. The side with…
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