Let’s break down what those numbers and letters mean, why they matter, and how to approach each position.
In high-pressure and critical applications, a welder often cannot access the entire joint freely due to other structural components in the way. This leads to the suffix. welding position chart
A weld performed on a flat table behaves very differently from a weld performed overhead or vertically up a steel column. To standardize qualification and ensure structural integrity, the welding industry uses a universal coding system known as the . Let’s break down what those numbers and letters
. Qualimet The Core Numbering System The number in a welding code indicates the orientation of the workpiece: EZIIL 1: Flat (easiest, gravity helps the puddle) 2: Horizontal 3: Vertical 4: Overhead (most difficult, fighting gravity) 5 & 6: Fixed pipe positions (used for advanced certifications) Fillet vs. Groove Welds The letter following the number specifies the type of joint you are working on: ESAB +1 F (Fillet Weld): Applied to the corner of two metal pieces (like T-joints or Lap joints). G (Groove Weld): Applied to the gap or "groove" between two pieces (like Butt joints). Lincoln Tech Quick Reference Welding Position Chart Position Code Position Name Joint Type Description 1F Flat Fillet Fillet The weld is performed from the top side of the joint. 1G Flat Groove Groove The workpiece is flat; the electrode points downward. 2F Horizontal Fillet Fillet The weld is on a horizontal surface against a vertical surface. 2G Horizontal Groove Groove The weld axis is horizontal; the face is in a vertical plane. 3F Vertical Fillet Fillet The weld axis is vertical; can be "uphill" or "downhill." 3G Vertical Groove Groove The plate is vertical; the weld progresses vertically. 4F Overhead Fillet Fillet The weld is performed from the underside of the joint. 4G Overhead Groove Groove The most challenging; performed above the welder's head. 5G Fixed Pipe Groove The pipe is horizontal and fixed; the welder moves around it. 6G Inclined Pipe Groove The pipe is fixed at a 45° angle; the "gold standard" of tests. Why the Position Matters Mastering different positions is essential because welding parameters —like amperage, travel speed, and electrode angle—must change to prevent the molten metal from sagging or dripping. While MIG and Stick welding are versatile, certain positions like A weld performed on a flat table behaves
These apply to T-joints, lap joints, and corners.
Whether you are studying for a CWI exam or trying to decipher a WPS (Welding Procedure Specification), understanding these alphanumeric codes——is essential.
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