Welding for Ironworkers
SMAW, FCAW, fillet welds, groove welds, CJP welds, preheating, and weld symbols.
- Identify fillet welds, groove welds, and CJP welds
- Describe SMAW and FCAW welding processes
- Explain preheating requirements and procedures
- Interpret weld symbols on structural drawings
Lesson 1
Fillet Welds, Groove Welds & CJP
Fillet Welds
A fillet weld is a triangular weld joining two surfaces at an angle (typically 90 degrees). It is the most common weld type in structural steel, used for beam-to-column connections, stiffener plates, and gusset plate attachments. The size of a fillet weld is measured by its leg length.
Groove Welds
A groove weld (butt weld) is a weld made in a groove between two pieces joined end to end. The edges of the base metal are prepared (beveled) to create a groove that is filled with weld metal. Groove welds are used for moment connections and column splices.
CJP Welds
A CJP (Complete Joint Penetration) weld is a groove weld where the weld metal extends through the entire thickness of the joint. CJP welds achieve full-strength connections and are required for moment connections and critical structural joints.
Fillet Weld
Shape: Triangular cross-section
Joint: Lap, tee, corner
Use: Most common structural weld
Groove / CJP Weld
Shape: Fills prepared groove
Joint: Butt (end to end)
Use: Moment connections, splices
A fillet weld joins two surfaces at an angle. A CJP weld provides Complete Joint Penetration for full-strength connections. Fillet welds are most common; CJP welds are used for critical connections.