Does a fire rated hollow metal frame need to be welded?
Typically the answer is no. Most three sided metal frames are manufactured and fire tested with corner tabs that lock the corner together. Welding is optional, but not required in this situation. If a frame is saw mitered and does not have the tabs, such as a sidelight frame, it would have to be welded. It is best to check with the manufacturer to find out how their frame was tested.