What type of joint might require a larger weld bead?

A lap joint often requires a larger weld bead compared to other types of joints due to the overlapping nature of the materials being joined. In a lap joint, two pieces of metal overlap each other, creating a situation where there is more surface area to fill when welding. The weld must penetrate and fuse both pieces effectively to ensure structural integrity, especially since the joint can be subjected to various stresses depending on its application.

The larger weld bead helps in distributing the heat more evenly and ensures that both layers of the overlapping metal are adequately bonded. This is crucial for providing strength and preventing the joint from failing under load.

In contrast, a butt joint involves the edges of two pieces meeting directly and typically requires less weld material since there's no overlap. A corner joint's configuration allows for a smaller bead as well. Similarly, a T-joint aligns two pieces perpendicularly, which may also require less filler material compared to a lap joint. Therefore, the design and structural requirements of a lap joint necessitate a larger weld bead to maintain strength and durability.