I have a question concerning welding support steel to CFMF metal studs. We are trying to hang Galvanized Structural Angle for Brick Ledger to CFMF metal studs. The original weld procedure called for a Flare Groove weld using E6010 rods.

This left us with many welds of various sizes and shapes with results on the inside of the studs varying from mild melt thru with some powdering of the galv. coating on the studs to extreme cases with crusty buildups of black sugared masses. I have not seen this kind of poor quality before.

In the interest of trying to save the work, what is your opinion of the amount of interior distortion acceptable per D1.3, inside the studs? Is there any criteria concerning max. weld size? D1.3 seems to say that any melt-thru is acceptable as long as no holes are associated with the weld. I do not agree with that concept entirely. I feel that the inspector's discretion is in order concerning the destruction of the CFMF stud by excessive heat. I have received many verbal interpretations of acceptable conditions, yet no one is stepping up to sign off on acceptance reports. Your opinions are welcome.

Bruce