What types of defects are commonly sought during the visual inspection of welds?

The selection of cracks, undercuts, and incomplete fusion as commonly sought defects during visual inspections aligns closely with key considerations in weld quality and integrity. Each of these defects can significantly affect the strength and performance of a weld.

Cracks represent a significant failure mode, as they can initiate stress concentrations and lead to structural failure under load. Detecting cracks during a visual inspection is crucial since their presence might compromise the weld joint's integrity.

Undercuts are areas where the weld metal fails to fill the joint adequately, resulting in a groove or depression along the edge of the weld. This defect can reduce the effective cross-section of the weld, resulting in a potential reduction in strength.

Incomplete fusion occurs when the weld metal does not properly unite with the base material or previous layers of weld metal. This lack of bonding can create weak points within the weld structure, leading to premature failure.

By focusing on these specific defects during visual inspection, inspectors can ensure the overall quality of the welding process and the reliability of the finished product. Each of these defects can be identified through careful observation, making them key targets in weld assessment.