In AWS D1.1, what does "distortion" refer to?

Distortion refers to the changes in dimensions due to thermal contraction that occur during and after the welding process. When metal is heated, it expands, and once it cools, it contracts back to its original size. This thermal cycling can lead to warping or misalignment, resulting in distortions in the welded structure. These distortions can affect the precision and integrity of the final assembly, making it a critical consideration in welding practices to control and manage the effects of heat on the materials being welded. Understanding and mitigating distortion is essential for achieving the desired fit and performance in structural applications.