Guides/Welding

Welding

Prepare a welded metal assembly

How to describe components, welds and checks for a reliable assembly.

Reading time

5 min

Updated

15 October 2026

Category

Welding

A sound welded assembly starts with a clear definition of the parts and their function. The drawing should show how to position components, which areas matter and how to inspect the finished assembly.

01

Show the assembly and its components

Provide a dimensioned assembly view and, where useful, a parts list for sheets, profiles, shafts, inserts or purchased items. Use matching part references on drawings, cut files and quote requests.

Identify reference faces, angles, hole spacing and dimensions that must remain accurate after welding. A 3D model helps visualize the assembly but does not replace functional drawing dimensions.

02

Describe the required welds

Mark joints to be welded and state whether welds should be continuous or intermittent when design requires it. Note limited access and any visible welds where appearance matters.

Avoid oversized welds by default: they add heat, time and sometimes distortion. Required weld size depends on loads and should be approved by the design owner.

03

Plan for distortion and finishing

Heat can move parts and affect squareness. Design that supports clamping and an intermediate check helps keep the assembly stable. Discuss tight tolerances before production.

  • Define the positioning order or references if squareness is critical.
  • Keep weld access clear before closing a box or section.
  • State whether weld beads stay visible, are ground flush or coated.
  • Separate functional faces from purely cosmetic surfaces.
04

Choose material and protection

Specify each component’s grade and thickness and the required corrosion protection. If parts are galvanized or coated before assembly, define preparation zones, welding conditions and repairs.

For painted finishes, identify visible faces, masking zones and preparation level. A coating may hide minor visual marks but cannot correct dimensional assembly defects.

05

Inspect before delivery

Choose checks tied to use: diagonals and squareness, interface position, overall dimensions and visual examination of specified welds. Agree inspection requirements with the designer where loads or regulations matter.

Send the latest drawing revision, quantity, service environment and finish. Approve a first assembly when an incorrect fit would be costly to fix in a run.

Next guide

Finishing · 4 min

Prepare a metal part for painting