In a complete joint penetration weld, what is the allowable stress when the stress is tension normal to the weld's effective area?

In a complete joint penetration weld, the allowable stress under tension normal to the weld's effective area is indeed the same as that of the base metal. This is due to the fact that a complete joint penetration weld achieves a high degree of bonding and fusion between the welded materials, essentially transferring stress through the weld as if it were an integral part of the base material.

This characteristic allows the weld to develop strength comparable to that of the base metal in tension. Proper techniques in preparation, execution, and inspection ensure that the weld is as strong as the surrounding material, which is why the allowable stress remains the same.

Understanding this principle is crucial when designing welded structures, as it guides engineers in determining the load capacities and safety factors essential for structural integrity.