How are extrusion welds typically tested for integrity?

Extrusion welds are typically tested for integrity using the soap-box test, which is a method used to detect leaks in welds. This testing involves applying a soap solution to the weld site; any leaks will create bubbles in the soap film, indicating a failure in the weld connection. This method is advantageous because it is simple, effective, and allows for quick identification of potential issues in the weld integrity without requiring advanced equipment.

While visual inspections can provide some indication of weld quality, they may not reveal underlying issues like tiny fissures or potential leaks. Tensile strength testing measures how a welded joint responds to stress, but it does not specifically assess the integrity of the weld in terms of leaks. Checking thermal resistance relates to how well a weld withstands temperature variations but does not directly correlate to the structural integrity of the weld itself. Therefore, the soap-box test stands out as the method specifically tailored to assess the integrity of extrusion welds effectively.