What is a characteristic of a socket weld fitting?

A socket weld fitting is characterized by its design, which allows it to accommodate a pipe inserted into a socket or opening. This type of fitting is welded at two locations: the outer surface of the pipe where it meets the fitting and often the interior surface as well. The dual welds enhance the fitting's structural integrity, making it suitable for applications requiring strong connections, especially in high-pressure systems.

When you insert the pipe into the fitting, a weld is made on the outside to secure it, while the internal surface can also be welded to prevent leakage and add strength to the connection. This design is beneficial in ensuring that the system can endure the stresses imposed by the fluids being transferred, whether gas or liquid.

The other options do not accurately describe the nature of socket weld fittings. For instance, stating that there is only one weld location does not capture the two distinct points where welding occurs, and claiming that welding only happens externally neglects the internal securing that often takes place. Additionally, socket weld fittings do require welding to achieve their purpose and reliability in system applications.