Welding Positions and Techniques
AWS position designations 1G through 6G, flat, horizontal, vertical, overhead, and pipe positions.
- Identify all AWS welding position designations for plate and pipe
- Explain the significance of the 6G pipe position test
- Describe techniques for vertical and overhead welding
Leçon 1
Plate Welding Positions
AWS Position Designations
AWS uses a number-letter system to designate welding positions. The number indicates the position, and the letter indicates the weld type: G for groove welds and F for fillet welds.
1G or 1F is the flat position - the weld axis is horizontal and the weld face is approximately horizontal. This is the easiest position because gravity holds the weld pool in place.
2G or 2F is the horizontal position - the weld axis is horizontal but the weld face is approximately vertical. Gravity tends to pull the weld pool downward, requiring adjusted technique.
3G or 3F is the vertical position - the weld axis is approximately vertical. The welder must fight gravity to keep the weld pool from sagging.
4G or 4F is the overhead position - the weld is deposited from the underside of the joint. Gravity pulls the molten metal away from the joint, making this the most challenging plate position.
1G / 1F - Flat
Difficulty: Easiest
Gravity: Helps hold weld pool
Technique: Standard parameters
2G / 2F - Horizontal
Difficulty: Moderate
Gravity: Pulls pool down
Technique: Slight upward angle
3G / 3F - Vertical
Difficulty: Challenging
Gravity: Pool runs downhill
Technique: Vertical up or down
4G / 4F - Overhead
Difficulty: Most difficult
Gravity: Pulls pool away from joint
Technique: Low heat, tight arc
1G/1F = flat, 2G/2F = horizontal, 3G/3F = vertical, 4G/4F = overhead. G = groove weld, F = fillet weld. These designations appear on WPS documents and welder qualification records.