In patch repairs, what is the purpose of stitch welds across the patch?

In patch repairs, what is the purpose of stitch welds across the patch?

• A. To remove rust.
• B. In patch repairs, the purpose of stitch welds across the patch is to hold the patch in place and minimize distortion.
• C. To cool the weld area.
• D. To apply filler material.

Answer: (B)

Stitch welds across a patch anchor the patch with controlled heat input. By placing several short welds instead of one long continuous weld, you hold the patch in its proper position while the metal cools and shrinks more gradually. This minimizes distortion and warping, keeps the panel flush with the surrounding surface, and makes it easier to check fit between welds before completing the seam. Rust removal isn’t done by stitch welds, cooling the area isn’t the main goal, and applying filler material comes later rather than from the welds themselves.

Stitch welds across a patch anchor the patch with controlled heat input. By placing several short welds instead of one long continuous weld, you hold the patch in its proper position while the metal cools and shrinks more gradually. This minimizes distortion and warping, keeps the panel flush with the surrounding surface, and makes it easier to check fit between welds before completing the seam. Rust removal isn’t done by stitch welds, cooling the area isn’t the main goal, and applying filler material comes later rather than from the welds themselves.