What is typically the result of proper wash-in during welding?

Achieving proper wash-in during welding leads to a smooth and evenly blended weld toe along the joint. This characteristic is crucial because a well-executed wash-in ensures a gradual transition between the weld material and the base metal, promoting both aesthetic quality and structural integrity in the weld.

A smooth and uniform weld toe minimizes stress concentrators and potential points of crack initiation, which can arise from irregularities. The evenness helps ensure that any residual stress is distributed evenly throughout the weld area, further enhancing the joint's strength and performance over time.

In contrast, while enhanced depth of penetration is an important aspect of welding, it is specifically related to the amount of base metal that the weld fuses with, rather than the wash-in technique itself. Increased distortion and greater heat input are outcomes that can arise from improper technique or excessive heat, but they do not represent the primary goal of achieving proper wash-in during the welding process.