Which method is used in weld testing to assess the durability of a weld?

Destructive testing is a method used to assess the durability of a weld by intentionally applying forces or loads to the welded assembly until failure occurs. This approach allows for the evaluation of the weld's strength, ductility, and overall performance under stress. By observing how the weld behaves when subjected to extreme conditions, such as tension or impact, inspectors can gather critical data about the weld's integrity and identify potential defects that might not be visible through non-destructive testing methods.

In destructive testing, samples taken from the actual weld are subjected to various tests, including tensile tests, bend tests, and impact tests. The results provide insights into how well the weld can withstand operational stresses and whether it meets the required specifications for safety and reliability.

Other methods like magnetic testing, radiographic testing, and visual inspection are valuable techniques in assessing weld quality, but they do not provide information on the weld's performance under failure conditions. These methods are often used for detecting surface or internal flaws and ensuring that the weld meets visual and material standards without causing any damage to the structure being tested. Destructive testing, however, specifically focuses on understanding the weld's durability by pushing it to its limits.