Puddle welds are frequently compared to plug welds, but they differ in preparation:
is a technique used to join two pieces of metal, typically thin sheets or overlapped materials, by creating a small, localized molten pool (the "puddle") of filler metal that fuses with the base metals.
: Requires a hole to be pre-punched or drilled in the top sheet before welding begins.
Used in lap joints where a clean, flush finish is required. Once the puddle is formed and cooled, it can be ground flat to make the joint nearly invisible.