This paper presents the results obtained and conclusions drawn from an experimental investigation of residual stresses due to welding and cutting in welded and unwelded "T-l" steel plates. "T-1" steel in plates meets the requirements of ASTM A514 and/or A51 7 steel.

Welded and unwelded specimens having either sheared or flame-cut edges were tested. The residual stress pattern and magnitudes are presented for a wide range of plate and weld sizes. The effect of different types of electrode, number of passes, weld size and, mainly, the geometry of the plate is discussed.

A knowledge of the residual stress pattern and magnitude in plates makes it possible to estimate the residual stresses in shapes built-up from plates by welding. The strength of a column depends on the residual stress distribution and magnitude; therefore knowing these, and other properties, the strength of the column can be estimated.