Which term best describes the method of applying small, separated welds to a joint to control heat input?

• A. Stitch
• B. Fillet
• C. Cap
• D. Lap

Answer: (A)

Stitch welding is about placing short, spaced welds along a joint instead of a continuous bead. This method carefully limits heat input at any one point, which helps prevent warping and burn-through on thin collision repair panels. The cooler, intermittent welds still join the pieces effectively while giving the metal time to cool between passes, improving control over distortion and penetration.

Other terms refer to different ideas: a fillet describes a type of weld geometry used at angle joints, not a method for heat control via intermittent welds; a cap is the finishing bead on top of a weld; a lap denotes a joint style or the act of overlapping pieces, not the technique of applying separated welds.