Welding processes developed since World War I are speeding the restoration of Axis-owned ships damaged by their crews in American ports before the United States seized them last April Repairs which would have required three or four months with cast iron welding rods can now be completed within a period of several weeks with bronze welding rods, a sort of solder, applied at much lower temperatures. This also removes the possibility of causing new injury to cylinder walls and other vital parts that might result under intense heat. The work can be done aboard the vessels without removing the huge engine castings. Where pieces had been broken off and disposed of, “patches” were welded into place. Excess metal is ground off to make a smooth finish. It is believed the mended sections will stand up under use as well as the original.