Fillet Leg Length Formula:
Definition: The length of fillet leg in welding is the distance from the root of the fillet weld to the toe, measured along the legs of the triangular cross-section.
Purpose: This calculator determines the appropriate fillet leg length based on transverse shrinkage and plate thickness in lap joints.
The calculator uses the formula:
Where:
Explanation: The formula relates transverse shrinkage and plate thickness to determine the required fillet leg length for proper joint strength.
Details: Proper fillet leg length ensures joint strength, prevents cracking, and compensates for material shrinkage during cooling.
Tips: Enter transverse shrinkage (in meters), plate thickness (in meters), and tolerance percentage (default ±5%). All values must be > 0 (except tolerance which can be negative).
Q1: What is transverse shrinkage in welding?
A: Transverse shrinkage is the contraction of metal perpendicular to the weld line caused by cooling after welding.
Q2: Why is the 1.52 constant used?
A: This is an empirical constant derived from experimental data relating shrinkage to required fillet dimensions.
Q3: When would I adjust the tolerance?
A: Adjust tolerance based on application requirements - tighter tolerances for critical joints, looser for non-critical applications.
Q4: How do I measure transverse shrinkage?
A: Measure the difference in plate dimensions before and after welding perpendicular to the weld direction.
Q5: Does this work for all materials?
A: The formula works best for steel. Other materials may require different constants.