Leak-proof welding starts before striking the arc.
✅ Joint Prep
• Clean the bevels completely — remove oil, rust, paint, moisture.
• Grind smooth bevels (typically 37.5° for standard V-groove).
• Root gap: ~1.5–3.0 mm (depends on pipe thickness and process).
• Tack welds: 3–4 equally spaced tacks around the pipe, same size as root pass, fully fused.
✅ Fit-Up Alignment
• No high-low (misalignment) — edges must be flush.
• Use pipe clamps or alignment tools.
