A weld that has minor problems but can still pass inspection is referred to as?

A weld that has minor problems but can still pass inspection is referred to as a weld discontinuity. The term "discontinuity" encompasses any interruption in the typical continuity of a weld, such as small voids, inclusions, or slight variations in the weld profile. It does not necessarily indicate a failure of the weld or that it is unfit for service; rather, it denotes that while there may be observable imperfections, they do not exceed the allowable limits set by relevant codes and standards. This concept is crucial in welding inspections since identifying and understanding these discontinuities helps in determining whether a weld is acceptable based on specific criteria.

In contrast, terms like "faulty weld" and "defective weld" imply that the weld does not meet necessary performance or quality requirements, which may render it unfit for service. An "accepted weld" typically refers to a weld that has passed inspection without issues, but that terminology does not capture the nuances of the minor issues associated with a weld discontinuity.