One of the biggest issues with T-34 production was the use of new austenitic electrodes, which welders were not skilled at working with. A group of instructors from the NII-48 research institute had to be dispatched to teach them how to work this this new type of welding, which radically reduced the amount of defective armour components.
"March 19th, 1941
#145189s
To the Chief of the 3rd Department of the NKSP, comrade Yushin
Director of NII-48, comrade A.S. Zayalov
Workers from the 3rd department of the NII-48 resolved a series of issues, which radically increased the quality of armour (austenitic electrodes, repair of armour, welding of thick armour, assistance to factories) by travelling to Podolsk factory and factory #183 to assist in mastering welding of armoured pats.
The issue of cracks on T-34s is nearly resolved, as the appearance of them has radically decreased or is completely gone, depending on the part.
I consider it possible to ask you to issue funds to the director of NII-48 for awarding to workers of the 3rd department.
GABTU BTU Chief, Military Engineer 1st Class, Korobkov
BTU 3rd Derpartment Chief, Military Engineer 1st Class, Afonin"