What is the typical weld sequence for a full-penetration groove weld from root to cap?

• A. Prepare joint and bevel, clean, tack parts to maintain alignment.
• B. Deposit a root pass to fuse base metals.
• C. Add fill passes to build to full thickness.
• D. Finish with a cap pass, maintaining uniform bead and reinforcement.

Answer: (D)

The last step in completing a full-penetration groove weld is finishing with a cap pass. After the joint is prepared, beveled, cleaned, and tacked, and after the root pass and any fill passes have built up to the full thickness, the cap pass shapes and seals the top of the weld. This final bead controls reinforcement and surface contour, ensuring a uniform, properly finished weld that meets dimensional and appearance requirements. The cap pass also helps close any remaining minor gaps at the top and smooths out imperfections, which is essential for achieving full penetration and a sound weld in service. While preparing, root, and fill passes are all necessary earlier steps, the cap pass is the concluding operation that completes the weld from root to cap.