What is the meaning of "weld bead"?

A weld bead refers to the deposited material that is formed during the welding process when the filler material melts and flows into the weld joint. This bead is the actual physical manifestation of the welding operation, representing the area where the two base metals are fused together.

In MIG welding, as the continuous wire is fed through the welding gun and melts due to the heat generated by the electric arc, it deposits a bead of molten metal. This bead cools and solidifies, creating a new piece of metal that bonds the parent materials together. The quality of the weld bead, including its width, height, and consistency, is an important indicator of the overall quality of the weld, reflecting factors such as welding technique, travel speed, and heat settings.

Understanding the weld bead is crucial for evaluating the strength and integrity of the weld, as well as for making any necessary adjustments to welding parameters in future welds.