What is the process of welding two edges of adjacent panels together called?

The process of welding two edges of adjacent panels together is commonly referred to as a butt weld. In a butt weld, the edges of the two panels are aligned at the same plane and are joined by welding along the interface. This technique is used extensively in automotive manufacturing and repair, as it creates a strong joint that provides structural integrity while minimizing the need for additional filler material.

Butt welding is essential for achieving a smooth, clean finish on the outer surface of the panels, which is important for both aesthetic and aerodynamic purposes in vehicles. It ensures that the bond is as strong as the original material, making it suitable for high-stress areas.

In contrast, other welding methods such as lap welds involve overlapping the panels, which may not provide the same level of strength or may require additional finishing steps to achieve a smooth surface. Flange welds and plug welds serve specific applications where specific join configurations or access points are required, but they do not involve the direct edge-to-edge contact found in butt welding.