What type of weld bead is produced by a medium point (30 degrees) vertex angle?

A medium point vertex angle of 30 degrees typically results in a weld bead that is characterized by a medium width and medium penetration. This angle strikes a balance that allows for adequate melting of the base metal without excessively widening the bead. In terms of weld pool behavior, the angle helps to control the amount of filler material and heat applied to the joint, ensuring that neither too little nor too much heat is applied.

The medium angle allows for a good compromise between penetration depth and bead width, which is essential for achieving a strong weld. It facilitates the development of a consistent bead that can merge well with the base material. This consistent penetration and width help create a weld that is structurally sound and visually acceptable.

In contrast, other bead characteristics are not associated with this specific angle. A very wide weld with shallow penetration would usually arise from a flatter angle, while a narrow bead with deep penetration typically comes from a sharper angle, focusing heat intensely on a smaller area. An inconsistent, variable width bead suggests issues with technique or setup that do not align with the controlled parameters associated with a 30-degree vertex angle. Thus, the optimal conditions provided by this angle lead directly to a well-proportioned weld bead with medium width and penetration.