Welded joints with fillet welds constitute the majority of joints made in various structural elements. The crucial role of such joints is emphasized particularly in respect of structural quality control. The primary issue “troubling” T-joints with fillet welds is the lack of penetration in surfaces of elements, i.e. the welding imperfection affecting the strength of joints in service conditions. Joints containing fillet welds are usually tested using surface methods, which significantly limits appropriate assessment and does not ensure the detection of volumetric imperfections. The article discusses the magnetic particle test-based detectability of volumetric imperfections in T-joints with fillet welds. Magnetic particle tests provide extensive possibilities as regards the assessment of structural elements, including welded joints containing poorly detectable discontinuities. Particular attention should be paid to T-joints with fillet welds. The analysis of test results made it possible to identify test parameters and conditions enabling the detection of lacks of penetration. In addition, the analysis revealed the correlation between test parameters and dimensions of joints and enabled the determination of magnetic field intensity-related boundary conditions making it possible to obtain indications of discontinuities in T-joints with fillet welds.

DOI: 10.17729/ebis.2022.6/2