How do you control distortion in welding?

To control distortion in welding, it's important to use proper clamping and fixturing to hold the workpieces in place during the process. Preheating the materials can help reduce thermal gradients, while selecting appropriate welding sequences and techniques, such as stringer beads or weaving patterns, can minimize heat input. Additionally, allowing for controlled cooling and using filler materials with low shrinkage properties can further mitigate distortion. Regularly monitoring and adjusting parameters throughout the welding process is also crucial for maintaining dimensional accuracy.