When measuring the size of a weld, which factor contributes to the calculated weight?

The weight of a weld is primarily determined by the volume of weld metal. This is because weight is a function of both the density and the volume of the material being measured. In welding, the volume can be calculated by considering the dimensions of the weld, such as its length, height, and width.

By focusing on the volume, you are ultimately accounting for all of these dimensions together, which allows for a precise calculation of the amount of weld material present. Factors like length, height, and surface area do not necessarily give a complete picture of the weight, as they do not incorporate the thickness or depth of the weld, which are critical in determining the overall volume. Thus, volume is the comprehensive measure needed to accurately establish the weight of the weld metal.