Which property is most directly affected by welding defects?

Weld strength is the property most directly affected by welding defects. When defects such as inclusions, porosity, or cracks are present in a weld, they create areas of weakness that can significantly reduce the overall load-bearing capacity of the joint. The integrity of the weld is paramount in ensuring it can withstand the stresses and strains it will encounter in service.

Factors like weld aesthetics may be impacted by defects, but this has a lesser effect on the functional performance of the structure. Similarly, while thermal properties and electrical conductivity can be influenced by the quality of a weld, they are not as directly correlated with the structural performance under load as weld strength. Therefore, focusing on weld strength is crucial for assessing the suitability of a weld for its intended application under various operating conditions.