Before performing radiography, what condition must be addressed regarding welds?

Before performing radiography on welds, it is essential to address the condition of weld ripples or irregularities. This process is crucial because any surface irregularities can obscure the radiographic image, leading to difficulties in interpreting the results and possibly missing defects within the weld. Proper cleaning and preparation ensure that the radiographic film or digital image captures a clear representation of the weld's integrity.

If surface imperfections are present, such as excessive rippling or roughness, they can scatter the radiation, creating artifacts in the image that may be misinterpreted as inconsistencies or flaws in the weld metal itself. Therefore, ensuring a smooth surface allows for better visibility of the actual weld characteristics and any potential discontinuities, such as cracks or porosity.

While polishing, painting, or temperature stabilization may have their roles in specific scenarios, the most critical factor in preparing a weld for radiographic inspection is to ensure that surface irregularities do not interfere with the interpretation of the radiographic results.