After tightening the Boutet base plate screws, what is the next step to check?

After tightening the Boutet base plate screws, checking alignment is crucial to ensure that the components are properly positioned for the welding process. Proper alignment is essential because misalignment can lead to uneven welds, improper joint formation, and potentially weakened structural integrity of the weld.

A well-aligned setup ensures that the weld area receives uniform heat and that the molten metal flows correctly into the joint, which is vital for achieving strong and effective welds. In thermite welding, where the reaction produces significant heat and molten metal, any misalignment could compromise the quality of the weld and lead to defects.

Once alignment is confirmed to be correct, other factors such as temperature or pressure may be assessed, but ensuring that all elements are in the proper position comes first. This methodical approach prevents complications during the welding process and contributes to achieving the desired outcomes in the weld's strength and quality.