Resistance Welding Tech Prep practice questions and answers 2026. Tap an option to test yourself — you'll see the correct answer and a plain-English explanation for every question. Free, no login.
Q21Which weld quality test involves applying a tensile force parallel to the weld interface?
✓ Correct answer: D. Shear test
A shear test applies tensile force parallel to the weld interface to determine the shear strength of the weld, which is critical for many load-bearing applications.
Q22What does an interfacial failure in a spot weld destructive test indicate?
✓ Correct answer: C. Inadequate nugget size or improper weld parameters
An interfacial failure, where the weld fractures through the middle of the nugget, often indicates inadequate nugget size, improper welding parameters, or material incompatibility issues.
Q23According to AWS standards, what is typically considered the minimum acceptable tensile-shear strength for a spot weld?
✓ Correct answer: B. 4,000 × t pounds (where t is thickness in inches)
According to AWS standards, the minimum acceptable tensile-shear strength is typically specified as 4,000 × t pounds (where t is the thickness in inches of the thinner sheet).
Q24Which non-destructive testing method for spot welds uses sound waves to detect discontinuities?
✓ Correct answer: A. Ultrasonic testing
Ultrasonic testing uses high-frequency sound waves that reflect differently from weld defects, allowing detection of discontinuities without damaging the weld.
Q25What is the primary cause of internal porosity in resistance spot welds?
✓ Correct answer: D. Trapped gases from surface contaminants
Internal porosity is primarily caused by trapped gases (often from surface contaminants like oils, greases, or coatings) that cannot escape the molten nugget during solidification.
Q26Which method is best for determining the hardness profile across a resistance weld?
✓ Correct answer: C. Microhardness testing
Microhardness testing allows for precise measurement of hardness at multiple points across the weld, including the base metal, heat-affected zone, and weld nugget.
Q27What is the primary limitation of visual inspection for resistance spot welds?
✓ Correct answer: B. Cannot detect internal defects
Visual inspection is limited because it can only detect surface defects, while most critical defects in resistance spot welds are internal and not visible from the surface.
Q28Which defect is characterized by cracks at the edge of the weld nugget?
✓ Correct answer: A. Circumferential cracking
Circumferential cracking occurs at the edge of the weld nugget, often due to rapid cooling rates, improper heat balance, or excessive electrode force.
Q29What is the recommended frequency for performing destructive tests on production spot welds according to most quality standards?
✓ Correct answer: D. Periodically (typically daily or per shift)
Most quality standards recommend periodic destructive testing (typically daily or at shift changes) to verify weld quality, with frequency increasing for critical applications or when process changes occur.
Q30What is the primary purpose of water cooling in resistance welding electrodes?
✓ Correct answer: C. To prevent electrode overheating and extend electrode life
Water cooling in resistance welding electrodes prevents overheating and extends electrode life by removing heat generated during the welding process, which helps maintain consistent electrode face geometry and prevents excessive mushrooming.
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