When base metal around a removed stud has been damaged, how should welding be performed?

• A. Gas welding only
• B. Spot weld only
• C. Arc welding in accordance with the standard
• D. Do not weld

Answer: (C)

When a damaged base metal surrounds a removed stud needs repair, the repair must be done with a controlled arc weld following the applicable standard. Arc welding provides the needed heat input and deposition control to rebuild the metal around the hole and restore the joint’s strength and integrity. It allows the use of the proper filler material and technique, and it can be inspected and qualified under the standard to ensure the weld meets the required performance.

Gas welding lacks the control and deposition efficiency for restoring structural sections around a hole, making it unreliable for this kind of repair. A spot weld is not suitable here because it won’t fill and reinforce the surrounding damaged area or restore the required cross-section and thread engagement. Not welding would leave the damaged area as-is, risking failure of the fastener area.

So, arc welding performed in accordance with the standard is the appropriate approach, including following the WPS/PQR, selecting proper filler, managing heat input to minimize distortion, and inspecting the weld per the standard.