One effective method to fix angular distortion, especially common in welded components, is through controlled heating techniques.
Using Controlled Heating
Angular distortion often occurs when residual stresses from processes like welding cause a component to bend out of its intended shape. A frequently used technique to correct this is heating in straight lines.
Application in Welding (Fillet Welds)
This method is particularly useful for correcting distortion in welded joints, such as fillet welds. The process involves applying heat along a straight line to specific areas of the component.
As described in corrective procedures (Fig. 4):
- The component is heated along the line of the welded joint.
- This heating is done on the opposite side to the weld that caused the distortion.
- The controlled heating creates localized expansion and subsequent contraction upon cooling.
- The induced stresses from this process are designed to pull the flange flat or otherwise counteract the angular distortion.
By carefully applying heat in straight lines on the side opposite the distortion, you create thermal stresses that effectively pull the distorted area back into alignment, correcting the angular deviation.
