AWS Welding Inspection and Testing Certification Practice Test

What does a welding inspector check for in a bend test besides the weld's flexibility?

1. Electrical conductivity

2. Visual flaws

3. Degree of penetration

4. All of the above

The correct answer is: Visual flaws

In a bend test, a welding inspector primarily checks for visual flaws, as this aspect is crucial in assessing the quality of the weld. The bending process allows the inspector to observe any surface discontinuities, such as cracks, inclusions, or other defects that may affect the integrity of the weld. Identifying these visual flaws is essential, as they can significantly impact the performance and reliability of the welded joint under stress and service conditions. While the other options mention important factors—the degree of penetration is critical for determining if the weld has adequately fused to the base materials, and electrical conductivity can be relevant in some applications—the primary focus of the bend test itself is to reveal visual defects that could compromise the welded joint. Thus, the correctness of the selected response is grounded in the primary role of the bend test in ensuring that visible flaws are addressed to maintain weld quality.