Welding - Back Gouging 2

[ehderube]

Hello,

I was wondering if anyone has any information regarding back gouging and when it is required. We have just welded a 3" plate with a backing strip (bevel prep.), removed the backing strip and now are wondering if the side that the backing strip was on should be back gouged and welded?

thanks

 

[HgTX]

What code are you working to? What's the loading condition of the joint?

Hg

Eng-Tips guidelines: faq731-376

 

[metengr]

If you want to assure a full penetration weld joint, I would strongly recommend to back gouge (grind) and add weld metal, as required.

 

[valero]

Also to add to metengr's reply if you are working to ASME 8 your joint efficiencies will be less if you remove the backing strip and do not grind / gouge to sound metal and weld out. You would also want to perform a dye penetrant, or mag particle inspection after grinding / gouging to inspect the root pass it is not required by code but is good practice.