A standard fillet weld has a right-triangle cross-section with equal legs. What are the base angles of this triangular section?

Difficulty: Easy

Correct Answer: 45° and 45°

Explanation:


Introduction / Context:
Fillet welds join two members at right angles or on a lap. The standard fillet section is a right triangle with equal legs, and its geometry governs throat thickness and design strength.


Given Data / Assumptions:

  • Standard, equal-leg fillet weld.


Concept / Approach:
In an equal-leg right triangle, base angles are equal and sum with the right angle to 180°. Hence each acute angle is 45°.


Step-by-Step Solution:
Right angle = 90°.Sum of angles = 180° ⇒ remaining 90° shared equally.Each base angle = 45°.


Verification / Alternative check:
Welding handbooks define standard fillet geometry with 45° legs, from which throat thickness = 0.707 * leg follows.


Why Other Options Are Wrong:

  • 30°–60°, 40°–50°, 20°–70°: not equal-leg fillet geometry.


Common Pitfalls:
Confusing leg angle with included angle between members; using unequal-leg fillet data.


Final Answer:
45° and 45°

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