Abstract: A method of closing off a mold plug opening in a turbine component includes the steps of inserting a weld member into an opening to be closed, and to abut a necked portion within a passage leading from the opening. Heat is applied to the weld member, such that a surface of the weld member in contact with the necked portion liquefies, and such that the weld member adheres to the necked portion, closing off the opening. The weld member and application of heat are selected such that the entirety of the weld member does not liquefy, but remains in the opening, without ever having liquefied. A turbine component formed by the method is also disclosed.

Abstract: A weld set-up and weld process are provided that alleviate micro-cracking as between a pair of welded pieces. The weld set-up is provided in which the weld pieces are configured to cause micro-cracking to occur in a portion of the welded pieces that is then removed by post-processing machining techniques. This weld set-up includes a primary weld piece and a secondary weld piece with a flange portion that extends over the primary weld piece. When used in conjunction with electron beam welding, application of the weld beam onto the secondary weld piece causes the formation of a preferential nailhead that is formed exclusively in the first weld piece.

Abstract: A method of closing off a mold plug opening in a turbine component includes the steps of inserting a weld member into an opening to be closed, and to abut a necked portion within a passage leading from the opening. Heat is applied to the weld member, such that a surface of the weld member in contact with the necked portion liquefies, and such that the weld member adheres to the necked portion, closing off the opening. The weld member and application of heat are selected such that the entirety of the weld member does not liquefy, but remains in the opening, without ever having liquefied. A turbine component formed by the method is also disclosed.

Abstract: A weld set-up and weld process are provided that alleviate micro-cracking as between a pair of welded pieces. The weld set-up is provided in which the weld pieces are configured to cause micro-cracking to occur in a portion of the welded pieces that is then removed by post-processing machining techniques. This weld set-up includes a primary weld piece and a secondary weld piece with a flange portion that extends over the primary weld piece. When used in conjunction with electron beam welding, application of the weld beam onto the secondary weld piece causes the formation of a preferential nailhead that is formed exclusively in the first weld piece.