What is one factor that can lead to warping in welded assemblies?

Warping in welded assemblies is often the result of uneven heat distribution and subsequent cooling rates during the welding process. Rapid cooling after welding can lead to significant temperature gradients within the material. When portions of the weld cool quickly while other sections remain hotter for longer, this differential cooling causes internal stresses that can warp or distort the welded assembly.

Uniform heating during the welding process helps to minimize the risk of warping by ensuring that all parts of the material reach similar temperatures, thereby reducing the likelihood of uneven expansion and contraction. Stable temperatures during the process also help to promote consistent metallurgical properties throughout the weld. Conversely, low welding speed could allow for more heat input without inducing significant temperature differentials, thus potentially reducing warping, not causing it.

Therefore, rapid cooling is the primary factor that contributes to warping, as it creates uneven stresses that the material cannot accommodate, leading to deformation.