Do you know the welding positions indicated by the following symbols?
A, B, C, D, E, F, G, H, J, L
1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6
F and G
PD
2G, 4G and 4F
Perhaps it was too easy for you, or perhaps you’re still not sure about the answer. Never mind, here’s the correct answer (Part I), as well as introduction to symbols (part II) and the chart data (Part III).
（Part I）The Answer：
A, B, C, D, E, F, G, H, J, and L are letters used in ISO standards to denote specific positions and orientations.
1, 2, 3, 4, 5, and 6 indicate the position’s orientation, with higher numbers generally representing more complex positions.
F denotes a fillet weld, and G represents a groove weld in AWS/ASME designations in AWS/ASME Designation.
PD refers to the horizontal overhead position according to ISO standards.
a 2G position refers to a horizontal groove weld, while a 3F position indicates a vertical fillet weld.
The AWS/ASME system’s overhead position is designated as 4G for groove welds and 4F for fillet welds.
（Part II）Introduction to symbols:
1. Flat Position 1G 1F
– Advantages:
– Easy to perform with high-quality welds.
– Ideal for most welding processes, especially for beginners.
– Good for long, continuous welds.
– Disadvantages:
Care must be taken to control heat input to prevent over-permeation.
2. Horizontal Position 2G 2F
– Advantages:
– Allows for good control of the weld pool.
– Faster welding due to gravity aiding in the molten pool.
– Disadvantages:
– Techniques are needed to prevent the solder bath from sagging.
3. Vertical Position 3G 3F
– Advantages:
– Useful for welding on vertical structures such as pipes or tanks.
– Provides flexibility for complex projects.
– Disadvantages:
The flow of molten metal needs to be controlled to avoid defects. Vertical up welding is more penetrating, while vertical down welding is faster, but may not be strong enough.
4. Overhead Position 4G 4F
– Advantages:
– Suitable for welding in tight spaces or areas above head level.
– Disadvantages:
– Very difficult to control the molten weld pool.
– Fatigue can be an issue due to the position of the welder’s arms and body.
5. Pipe Welding 2G, 5G, 6G Positions
– Advantages:
– Essential for pipe welding in industries such as oil, gas, and construction.
– Disadvantages:
– Difficult to maintain consistent bead appearance across different orientations.
To clarify further:
H-L045 (6G Uphill): This position involves welding a pipe fixed at a 45-degree angle, with the welding progression moving upward. It’s considered one of the most challenging positions due to the combined complexities of vertical and horizontal welding. Successfully welding in this position qualifies a welder for all other positions.
J-L045 (6G Downhill): Similar to H-L045, this position also has the pipe fixed at a 45-degree angle, but the welding progression moves downward. It shares the same level of difficulty as the uphill variant and is often used in welder qualification tests to ensure comprehensive welding skills.
(III) A diagram containing all the welding positions. Want to take it and edit it yourself? Contact admin@akweld.com to get the editable version.
