What is a butt joint?

A butt joint is defined as a joint where two pieces of material, such as metal plates, are joined together by aligning their ends directly against each other. This method is commonly used in various welding and fabrication processes because it allows for a stronger connection between material segments, as there is a continuous piece of material over a wide surface area at the joint.

In fabrication, achieving a good butt joint often involves careful alignment and precision to ensure a strong and effective weld. This type of joint is prevalent in structural construction, pipelines, and many other engineering applications where materials need to be joined at their extremities without any overlap, allowing for a smooth finish that can be beneficial for aesthetics and structural integrity.

Understanding the characteristics of various joint types, including butt joints, is crucial in engineering, as different applications demand different joint designs based on load requirements, stress distribution, and manufacturing processes. Hence, option B is the correct identification of a butt joint.