According to AWS D1.1, a weld crater is acceptable if what requirement is met?

A weld crater is an unwanted depression that can occur at the end of a weld pool, often due to the solidification of molten material. According to AWS D1.1, the crucial aspect of determining the acceptability of a weld crater is based on whether the specified weld size is maintained. If the actual weld dimensions adhere to the required specifications and tolerances outlined in the code, this can validate the integrity of the weld, despite the presence of a crater.

Maintaining the specified weld size ensures that the structural strength and performance characteristics of the weld meet the necessary standards. This means that even with a crater, as long as the overall dimensions comply, the weld can still be acceptable. Other options, such as painting over the weld, grinding the weld smooth, or ensuring the weld is continuous, do not address the core requirement for weld quality set by the AWS standards.