9 Cover Passes

A cover pass is a weld pass or passes resulting in the exposed layer of a multi-pass weld on the side from which welding was done. The cover pass provides face reinforcement and gives the weld a neat appearance. Depending on the welding position and the direction of travel, the cover pass may be deposited as a weave bead or as a series of stringer beads.

Three diagrams showing the layout of cover passes deposited with stringer beads, weave beads, and a mixture of the two.

Best Practices

If the welding process produces slag, do not weave.

Face reinforcement should be within the limits specified by the applicable code.

The cover pass should fuse into the sides of the joint by 1/16” to 3/32” with a smooth transition into the base metal.

License

Pipe Welding Copyright © by Lake Washington Institute of Technology Welding Department. All Rights Reserved.

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