Traditional weld demands on throat size and leg length does not support a welding process for improved penetration. This paper includes theoretical analysis of welded samples showing the potential with welds that have a prescribed asymmetry. Weld with a larger leg length against the web plate offer in this study improved fatigue properties and could also offer potential for reduced welding time, a smaller amount of filler material and potentially make the quality inspection more relevant. Copyright © 2013 ASM International® All rights reserved.