Welding Symbols

120102f
Welder
Welding Symbols
Welding Technology and Properties of Metals
First Period
Table of Contents
Objective One ............................................................................................................................................... 2
Purpose of Welding Symbols .................................................................................................................... 2
Objective Two............................................................................................................................................... 3
Weld Symbol and Welding Symbol.......................................................................................................... 3
Objective Three ............................................................................................................................................. 5
Symbol Construction................................................................................................................................. 5
Designations for Common Processes ...................................................................................................... 15
Combined Weld Symbols ....................................................................................................................... 16
Multiple Reference Lines ........................................................................................................................ 17
Objective Four ............................................................................................................................................ 19
Rules for Dimensioning Welding Symbols............................................................................................. 19
Objective Five ............................................................................................................................................. 29
Non-Destructive Examination Symbols .................................................................................................. 29
Self-Test ...................................................................................................................................................... 34
Self-Test Answers ....................................................................................................................................... 47
NOTES
Welding Symbols
Rationale
Why is it important for you to learn this skill?
Welding symbols provide an efficient means of placing complete welding information on
shop drawings. It is critically important that the welds are completed as required so that
the finished weldment performs to specified standards. Information regarding all aspects
of welding and non-destructive testing symbols must be completely understood by all
personnel involved in the fabrication of welded products.
Outcome
When you have completed this module, you will be able to:
Interpret welding symbols.
Objectives
1. Explain the purpose of welding symbols.
2. Define weld symbol, welding symbol and supplementary symbols.
3. Interpret weld symbols and welding symbols.
4. Identify the dimensioning of welding symbols.
5. Interpret non-destructive testing symbols.
Introduction
This module provides information to enable you to correctly understand and interpret
welding symbols and non-destructive testing symbols.
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2014, Her Majesty the Queen in right of the Province of Alberta
NOTES
Objective One
When you have completed this objective, you will be able to:
Explain the purpose of welding symbols.
Purpose of Welding Symbols

Welding symbols provide a shorthand method for conveying complete welding
information from the designer to the welder. Welding symbols are common on blueprints
and other shop drawings. Companies may modify a few of the symbols to fit their own
particular needs. The welding symbols outlined in this module are used universally across
North America. They have been developed by the American Welding Society (AWS).
The Canadian Standards Association (CSA) has adopted the AWS symbols and added
some modifications and symbols of their own. These modifications are noted where
applicable.
Welding symbols are a schematic or symbolic representation of a weld joint preparation

or of the weld joint with the weld in place. Numbers, letters, symbols and notes are added
as required. They provide sufficient information to allow correct weld completion
according to design standards.
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NOTES
Objective Two
Define weld symbol, welding symbol and supplementary symbols.
Weld Symbol and Welding Symbol

The AWS standard on symbols makes a distinction between a weld symbol and a welding
symbol.
Basic Weld Symbol

The weld symbol indicates the desired type of weld (Figure 1). The groove weld is further
subdivided according to the type of preparation used. A weld symbol represents the shape
of the weld as you would see it in cross-section.
Figure 1 - Basic weld symbols.
Supplementary Weld Symbol

A supplementary weld symbol is never used without a basic weld symbol. The
supplementary symbols are used only when additional information is necessary for
proper weld completion (Figure 2).
Figure 2 - Supplementary symbols.
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NOTES Welding Symbol
The welding symbol is an assembled symbol that combines multiple weld symbols into
one. It gives all the information necessary for preparing and/or welding the joint. Most
welding symbols consist of three or more of the following eight elements (Figure 3):
1. reference line,
2. arrow line,
3. basic weld symbols,
4. dimensions and other data,
5. supplementary symbols,
6. finish symbols,
7. tail and
8. specifications, process or other references.
Welding symbols must consist of the first two listed elements. Any of the other six
elements are used only when such information is necessary.
Figure 3 - Locations of the elements of a welding symbol.
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NOTES
Objective Three
Interpret weld symbols and welding symbols.
Symbol Construction
The construction of weld symbols and welding symbols must adhere to a set of basic
rules to support a standardized scheme of delivering information. A uniform standard
reduces the change of introducing errors. The rules for constructing weld symbols and
welding symbols in this section are with regard to:
reference line,
arrow line,
orientation of weld symbols,
broken arrow line,
surfacing weld symbol,
fillet weld symbol,
plug or slot weld symbol,
basic groove weld symbols,
back weld or backing weld symbols,
supplementary weld symbols,
common welding and cutting process designations,
combined weld symbols and
welding symbols which contain multiple reference lines and their applications.
Reference Line
The reference line forms the base for welding symbols. It is always drawn horizontally.
Arrow Line
The arrow line may extend from either end of the reference line at any angle other than
horizontal. More than one arrow line may be used (Figure 4) provided that:
all joints to which the arrows point have identical welds and
all arrow lines originate from the same end of the reference line.
Figure 4 - Multiple arrow lines.
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NOTES Symbol Orientation
Weld symbols originate from the reference line and are placed below, above or on both
sides of the reference line depending on the location of the welds. These three points of
reference can be:
1. arrow side,
2. other side and
3. both sides.
Arrow Side
Welds that are to be placed on the side of the joint where the arrow line points must have
the corresponding weld symbol on the bottom of the reference line (Figure 5). This is
known as the arrow side.
Figure 5 - Welds on the arrow side of the joint.
Other Side
Welds to be placed on the side of the joint opposite where the arrow line points have the
weld symbol on the top of the reference line (Figure 6). This is known as the other side.
Figure 6 - Welds on the other side of the joint.
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Both Sides NOTES
When welds are placed on both sides of the joint, the weld symbols are placed on both
sides of the reference line (Figure 7). This is known as welded both sides.
Figure 7 - Welds on both sides of the reference line.
Broken Arrow Line

A broken arrow line is used with J groove and bevel groove preparations when it is
necessary to indicate which member of the joint is to be prepared (Figure 8). If only one
member of the joint requires preparation, the broken arrow line points to it. When it is
obvious which member is to be prepared, the broken arrow line is optional (but
preferred).
Figure 8 - Use of the broken arrow line.
Surfacing Weld Symbol

A surfacing weld does not indicate the welding of a joint and has arrow side significance
only. The symbol is drawn only on the arrow side of the reference line with the arrow
drawn to clearly point to the surface on which the weld is to be deposited (Figure 9).
Figure 9 - Surfacing weld symbol.
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NOTES Fillet Weld Symbol
The fillet weld symbol is an isosceles triangle drawn with the left leg perpendicular to the
reference line. The hypotenuse is drawn at 45 to the reference line. It does not matter
what side of the reference line the arrow line is drawn from. The vertical leg of a fillet
weld symbol is always on the left side of the triangle (Figure 10).
Figure 10 - Fillet weld symbols.
NOTE
All angular lines on weld symbols and the tail are drawn at 45 to the
reference line.
Plug or Slot Weld Symbol

The symbol for both plug welds and slot welds is a rectangle drawn on the reference line
(Figure 11). The arrow line should touch the centreline of the weld joint. Detailed
information of the joint is supplied either through dimensioning or by a detailed drawing.
Figure 11 - Plug or slot weld symbol.
Groove Weld Symbols

There are five symbols which directly relate to the type of groove welds:
1. square groove weld symbol,
2. Vee groove weld symbol,
3. bevel groove weld symbol,
4. U groove weld symbol and
5. J groove weld symbol.
Square Groove Weld Symbol

This symbol is used for butt joints when no plate edge preparation is required, although
dimensioning may be used to specify an amount of penetration when no preparation is
specified (Figure 12).
Figure 12 - Square groove weld symbols.
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Vee Groove Weld Symbol NOTES
The Vee groove symbol (also known as V-groove) is drawn with the point of the Vee
touching the reference line (Figure 13). The Vee groove symbol is inverted when it is on
the arrow side of the reference line. A double Vee preparation has the points of the Vees
touching at the same point on the reference line.
Figure 13 - Vee groove weld symbols.
Bevel Groove Weld Symbol

This weld symbol is used when only one side of the joint requires preparation. It is
common on Tee joints and corner joints. When necessary, the arrow line is broken and
the arrow then points to the side of the joint requiring the preparation. This symbol is
often used with the fillet weld symbol for Tee joints and corner joints where full
penetration is required.
The bevel groove symbol is drawn with the point touching the reference line (Figure 14).
Like the fillet weld symbol, the left leg is always vertical no matter which end of the
reference line the arrow line is attached to. When a double bevel joint is shown, the
vertical legs are drawn in line with each other.
Figure 14 - Bevel groove weld symbols.
U Groove Weld Symbol

The U groove weld symbol is drawn on a short vertical line that touches the reference
line (Figure 15). This joint configuration is common where heavy material is to be
welded or when the joint is back gouged for welding the second side.
Figure 15 - U groove weld symbols.

CSA standards use a dotted U or J to indicate preparation of the groove by the carbon
arc-air process (CAC-A) (Figure 16). This preparation may be done either after the joint
has been fitted or on the second side after the first side has been welded.
Figure 16 - Dotted U groove weld symbol (CSA only).
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NOTES J Groove Weld Symbol
Like the bevel groove, the J groove requires preparation on one side of the joint only. A
broken arrow line is used when it is necessary to designate which side of the joint is to be
prepared (Figure 17). The broken arrow is used with the J groove and the bevel groove.
The J symbol is drawn to represent one half of a U joint with the vertical leg on the left
side. The J groove weld symbol always has the vertical leg on the left side regardless of
where the arrow line is.
Figure 17 - J groove weld symbols.
Back Weld or Backing Weld Symbols

Weld beads that are used as a back weld or a backing weld on single welded groove
joints are indicated with the back or backing weld symbol. The symbol is a semi-circle
placed on the reference line (Figure 18). The back or backing weld is welded from the
opposite side of the groove weld. Dimensions of the back or backing weld are not shown
on the reference line, but may be shown on the drawing if desired.
Figure 18 - The back weld or backing weld symbol.

When single reference lines are used, a note is required in the tail of the welding symbol
to indicate whether the weld is a back weld or a backing weld.
A backing weld is completed first, before welding the groove weld.
A back weld is done last, after the groove has been welded.
Supplementary Weld Symbols

These symbols are used only when additional information about the weld is required. The
most common supplementary weld symbols are:
1. weld all around,
2. field weld,
3. joints with backing or spacers,
4. melt through,
5. contour and finishing and
6. the tail.
Weld All Around Symbol

A joint that requires welding all around one side (or both sides, if shown) is designated
by an open circle where the arrow joins the reference line (Figure 19).
Figure 19 - Weld all around symbol.

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This symbol is most often found when the weld involves changes in direction, for NOTES
example in the welding of a W shape onto a reinforcing pad (Figure 20).
Figure 20 - Weld all around example.
Field Weld Symbol

Large projects often require that sub-assemblies be fabricated in the shop and then joined
at the job site. The field weld symbol indicates the joints that are to be completed at the
job site. The field weld symbol is a solid flag. The symbol is located at the intersection of
the arrow line and reference line. It must be at right angles to the reference line.
CSA W59 recommends that the field weld symbol point toward the weld symbol as
shown in Figure 21.
Figure 21 - The field weld symbol.
Joints with Backing or Spacers

Welding symbols that indicate joints which use spacers or backing material illustrate this
with a rectangular symbol. The welding symbol differs in its placement, which can be on
the top or bottom of the reference line or in the centre of the reference line.
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NOTES Joints with Backing
A joint with backing is shown with a groove weld symbol on one side of the reference
line and a rectangle on the opposite side that includes a notation (Figure 22). AWS letter
designation uses the following:
R means backing to be removed after welding and
M means material specifications to be located in the tail.
Figure 22 - Weld symbols for joints with backing.

CSA letter designation uses one of the following:
M for material identification (by means of an assigned letter),
MR for material identification, but removed after welding,
S for steel or other material as specified,
SR for the same as S, but removed after welding,
T for tape or
F for flux.
Joint with Spacers

A joint that incorporates a spacer is shown with the groove weld symbol. It is modified to
show a rectangle within the symbol (Figure 23). The same AWS and CSA letter
designations are applied as those that indicate backing.
Figure 23 - Weld symbols for joints with spacers.
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Melt Through Symbol NOTES
The melt through symbol (Figure 24) is used when groove welds are done from one side
only and full penetration is required.
Figure 24 - The melt through symbol.
Contour and Finishing Symbols

When the surface contour of a weld is specified, a contour symbol is added to the weld
symbol. Three contour symbols (Figure 25) are:
1. flat,
2. convex and
3. concave.
The symbol represents the required weld profile. It is placed over top of the weld symbol.
Figure 25 - Contour symbols.

When the weld surface is to be finished to the specified contour by mechanical or some
other means, a letter is added adjacent to the contour symbol (Figure 26). The letters are:
M for machine,
C for chip,
G for grind,
H for hammering,
R for rolling or
U for unspecified.
Figure 26 - Symbols for method of finishing.
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NOTES Tail
The tail is added to the end of the reference line opposite the arrow line when reference is
made to:
specification data,
the cutting or welding process,
other reference material about the weld that cannot be placed in symbol form and
information pertaining to the weld that is located elsewhere on the drawing,
which saves repeating the information in the welding symbol.
For example, the symbol in Figure 27 calls for a 12-inch single-Vee groove weld on the
arrow side made to specification 31, part A. In this case, you would look elsewhere on
the drawing for the information pertaining to specification 31, part A.
Figure 27 - The tail of a welding symbol.

As another example, the symbol in Figure 28 calls for a fillet weld to be made on the
arrow side of the joint, using the shielded metal arc welding process, designated by the
letters SMAW.
Figure 28 - Using the tail to specify the welding process.

Some companies have developed their own codes for information contained in the tail of
the welding symbol. For example, if the majority of a company's fillet welds are 6.4 mm
(1/4") in size, the company can say this is a typical size of most fillet welds. The
abbreviation TYP (typical) or CO STD (company standard) in the tail of the symbol
would then indicate a 6.4 mm (1/4") fillet weld.
CSA Standards and some companies use the abbreviation GTSM in the tail of the symbol
to specify gouge to sound metal before back welding (Figure 29).
Figure 29 - Significance of GTSM.
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NOTES
Designations for Common Processes
The AWS letter designation is a standardized method of specifying welding or cutting
process in the tail of a welding symbol. These are widely used and recognized across
North America. Table 1 shows the AWS letter designation for some common welding
processes.
Process Type Process Letter

Brazing Torch brazing TB
Gas welding Oxy-acetylene welding OAW
Resistance welding Resistance spot welding RSW
Arc welding Stud welding SW
Plasma arc welding PAW
Submerged arc welding SAW
Gas tungsten arc welding GTAW
Gas metal arc welding GMAW
Flux cored arc welding FCAW
Metal core arc welding MCAW
Shielded metal arc welding SMAW
Table 1 - AWS letter designations for welding processes.
Table 2 shows the AWS letter designation for some common cutting processes.
Process Type Process Letter

Arc cutting Arc cutting AC
Air carbon arc cutting CAC-A
Plasma arc cutting PAC
Oxygen cutting Oxyfuel cutting OFC
Metal powder cutting POC
Table 2 - AWS letter designations for cutting processes.
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NOTES Combined Weld Symbols
There are many possibilities for weld symbols to be combined. One combination is fillet
welds applied over square or bevel groove welds on Tee joints. To indicate root
penetration on fillet welds, a groove weld symbol is used with the fillet weld symbol.
Weld symbols are used in combination to show penetration or effective throat on joint
types requiring fillet welds with or without groove preparation (Figure 30).
Figure 30 - Combination symbols.

The fillet weld symbol is stacked on top of the square groove weld symbol. The weld
symbols must be placed in the logical order of progression, starting from the reference
line. For example, in Figure 30A the first weld is the square groove weld, so the square
groove symbol is placed on the reference line first. After the square groove is welded,
you would next weld the fillet weld. This joint configuration requires no preparation.
Figure 30B shows a welding symbol that does require preparation. The bevel is prepared
and welded first and then finished with a fillet weld in the Tee joint.
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NOTES
Multiple Reference Lines
Multiple reference lines give added capabilities to the welding symbols. They provide
information relative to:
the sequence of welding operations,
supplementary data applicable to the weld symbol or
test symbols regarding the examination of the weldment after completion of
welding.
Two or more reference lines may be used. The operation that you complete first is shown
on the reference line nearest the arrow. Each subsequent operation on the reference line is
stepped away from the arrow line (Figure 31).
Figure 31 - Multiple reference line sequence.

If a sequence is specified for a joint, as described by the welding symbol shown in
Figure 32, there are two sequencing alternatives that may be considered.
Figure 32 - Combination symbol.
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NOTES Figure 33 shows the possible sequences. To distinguish the correct weld sequence you
need to know if the semi-circle weld is a backing weld (done first) or a back weld (done
last). This information is given in the tail of the welding symbol.
Figure 33 - Multiple reference line symbol.

When multiple reference lines are applied to the basic weld symbol, the weld all around
and field weld symbols may be added to one or all of the reference lines. The tail may
also be added (Figure 34).
Figure 34 - Supplementary symbols may be used with multiple reference lines.
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NOTES
Objective Four
Identify the dimensioning of welding symbols.
Rules for Dimensioning Welding Symbols

Dimensions for the size of a weld are placed to the left of the weld symbol. This may
include the depth of preparation and penetration, the effective throat and/or the actual
weld size. The units of measure in the welding symbols are the same as on the drawing.
Dimensions for the length of weld are placed to the right of the weld symbol. This is most
common with fillet welds, especially for intermittent welding (also known as stitch
welding). Dimensions for joint spacing and edge preparation for groove welds are located
within the groove weld symbol.
In most cases, the dimensioning examples in this module are in millimetres (mm). They
have been omitted from the weld orientation detail of most line drawings to save space
and reduce clutter.
You must be competent in interpreting the dimensions shown on the four basic weld
types:
1. surface welds,
2. plug and slot welds,
3. fillet welds and
4. groove welds.
Surface Weld Dimensioning

Either a single- or a multi-pass surfacing weld may be used to build up a surface. When
the amount of buildup is specified, this is shown as a dimension to the left of the weld
symbol (Figure 35). A contour symbol, finish symbol and method of finish symbol may
also be used. These are placed in line with and below the surfacing weld symbol.
Figure 35 - Surfacing weld dimensioning.

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NOTES When no height of weld buildup is specified, the dimensions are omitted on the reference
line. When a portion of the area of a surface is to be built up, the location and orientation
are shown on the drawing. The surface weld symbol is always drawn on the arrow side of
the reference line.
NOTE
A surfacing weld does not indicate the welding of a joint.
Plug Weld and Slot Weld Dimensioning

Several dimensions are included on welding symbols where plug weld and slot weld
symbols are used. These dimensions indicate:
location,
size,
preparation,
quantity and
amount of weld fill.
Plug Welds
The dimensions of plug welds (Figure 36) are shown in symbols as follows.
The size of a plug weld refers to the diameter of its hole at the base of the weld. It
is shown to the left of the weld symbol.
The depth of fill is shown inside the symbol.
The centre-to-centre spacing (pitch) is shown to the right of the symbol.
The degree of countersink (if used) is shown in line with the symbol.
Figure 36 - Plug weld dimensioning.
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Slot Welds NOTES
Slot welds use the same symbol as plug welds. The size of the slots can be detailed on the
drawing or placed in the welding symbol (Figure 37). The (5) indicates 5 slots are
required.
Figure 37 - Slot weld dimensioning.
Fillet Weld Dimensioning

Dimensions for fillet welds are either supplied in the general notes on the drawing, or
they are included in the welding symbol to indicate their size and length.
General Dimensioning Notes

A general note may appear on a drawing governing the dimensions of the fillet welds, for
example All fillet welds to be 9.6 mm ( 3/8") in size, unless otherwise noted. The fillet
weld symbol is used, but the dimensions are omitted except where they differ from those
in the general note. If one side differs, the dimensions for both sides must be shown.
Fillet Weld Size

The size of equal leg fillet welds is shown to the left of the weld symbol. This refers to
the length of both legs of the triangle formed by the fillet (Figure 38).
Figure 38 - Size of fillet welds.
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NOTES The size of fillet welds with unequal legs is to the left of the weld symbols (Figure 39).
The numbers refer to the length of the legs of the triangle formed by the fillet. Unless the
leg orientation is obvious, the leg orientation of the fillet must appear on the drawing.
Figure 39 - Unequal leg fillet weld dimensioning.
Fillet Weld Length

The length of a fillet weld is shown to the right of the weld symbol (Figure 40).
When a fillet weld is to extend to the full length of the joint, the length
measurement is omitted.
When a fillet weld is to extend a specific length of the joint, it may be indicated
by symbols and dimension lines on the drawing.
Figure 40 - Length of fillet welds.

Fillet welds do not always have to be welded continuously across a member. To save
time and money, they may be welded intermittently on one side or on both sides. The
intermittent welds types are:
1. intermittent fillet welds,
2. chain intermittent welds,
3. staggered intermittent welds.
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Intermittent Fillet Welds NOTES
Intermittent fillet welds are placed intermittently on one side of the joint. Dimensioning is
on the right side of the fillet weld symbol, which shows the length of each weld and the
pitch. Figure 41 shows the length of weld as 50 mm and the pitch as 100 mm.
Figure 41 - Intermittent fillet weld dimensioning.
Chain Intermittent Welds

Chain intermittent fillet welds are located on both sides of the joint with the welds located
directly opposite each other. Sizes must be shown on both sides of the reference line
(Figure 42). If a fillet weld symbol does not show length and pitch on one side, then the
weld on that side is a continuous weld. The weld symbols are located directly opposite
each other on the reference line.
Figure 42 - Chain intermittent fillet weld dimensioning.
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NOTES Staggered Intermittent Welds
Staggered intermittent fillet welds are staggered or offset from one side to the other along
the length of the joint (Figure 43). As with chain intermittent welding, the sizes must be
shown on both sides of the reference line. The weld symbols are staggered on opposite
sides of the reference line.
Figure 43 - Staggered intermittent fillet weld dimensioning.
Welds Across Solid Members

Arrow side and other side cannot cross through a solid member in a joint. In Figure 44,
Joint A and Joint B require separate welding symbols.
Figure 44 - Welds across solid members.
Groove Weld Dimensioning

Dimensions for groove welds are given in the general notes on the drawing, or they are
included in the welding symbol. They accurately specify:
the effective throat and weld size,
the root opening and bevel angle,
the groove dimensions,
the dimensions for double-groove welds (where applicable) and
the dimensions of combination welding symbols (where applicable).
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Effective Throat and Weld Size NOTES
Weld size usually refers only to the depth of preparation for the groove weld. The
effective throat of groove welds is the total thickness of material fused in the weld. This
includes the depth of preparation plus additional penetration of the weld. If the effective
throat is not specified, then either effective throat or weld size can be used for the weld
thickness.
In Figure 45, the effective throat specification (E) should appear in brackets on the right
side of the depth of preparation (S). They share a common location in the welding
symbol. The quantity (E) is measured from the top of the plate to the deepest point where
the weld penetrates the joint. Weld reinforcement is not included in the effective throat
measurement. The omission of depth of preparation and the effective throat dimension
indicates complete joint penetration on single groove and symmetrical double groove
welds.
Figure 45 - Weld size and effective throat.
Root Opening and Bevel Angle

Dimensions for the root opening and bevel angle are placed inside the groove symbol
with the root opening dimension closest to the reference line (Figure 46).
Figure 46 - Root opening and bevel angle.
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NOTES Groove Weld Dimensions
A general note may appear on a drawing governing the dimensions of the groove welds,
for example All Vee groove welds shall have a 60 groove angle and root opening of
3 mm unless otherwise noted. The groove weld symbol is used, but the dimensions are
omitted except where they differ from those in the general note. For single and double
groove welds that extend completely through the member being joined, no size is shown
to the left of the weld symbol (Figure 47).
Figure 47 - No dimensions are needed with fully fused joints.

For groove welds that extend only partly through the members being joined, the size is
shown on the left of the weld symbol. Figure 48A identifies a weld that has a Vee joint
preparation of 12 mm and an effective throat of 12 mm on the arrow side.
Figure 48B shows a double bevel to be done on the right side plate. The arrow side is to
have a joint preparation of 9 mm with an effective throat of 9 mm. The other side has a
joint preparation of 6 mm with an effective throat of 6 mm.
Figure 48 - Dimensions with partially fused joints or when each side is different.
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A groove weld with a specified root penetration is indicated by showing the depth of NOTES
preparation and the effective throat in brackets to the left of the weld symbol (Figure 49).
Figure 49 - Specified root penetration.

The symbol indicates a 6 mm depth of preparation plus a 3 mm penetration for an
effective throat of 9 mm on the other side of the joint.
Double-Groove Weld Dimensions

Each weld symbol must be accompanied in the welding symbol by all the data essential
for the preparation, fit-up and execution of welding. This principle applies to all
double-groove welds. It makes no difference whether the data is identical on each side of
the reference line or not. Since it is common to both sides, the size of the root opening
needs to appear only once (Figure 50). When you add up the depth of preparation and
root penetration shown in Figure 50, the weld does not extend through the thickness of
the joint members.
Figure 50 - Specified penetration in a double groove weld.
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NOTES Dimensioning Combination Welding Symbols
To dimension combination welding symbols, place the dimensions beside their respective
weld symbols (Figure 51).
Figure 51 - Dimensioning of combination welding symbols.

Figure 52 indicates that effective throat is gained by penetration into a square groove
preparation and combined with fillet welds. The groove welds in Figure 52 penetrate into
each other by 3 mm at the centre. The total effective throat of the groove portion of the
weld cannot be greater than 15 mm (plate thickness).
Figure 52 - The square groove symbols indicate penetration with fillet welds.
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NOTES
Objective Five
Interpret non-destructive testing symbols.
Non-Destructive Examination Symbols

Non-destructive examination (NDE) symbols indicate the type of test(s) the weld will be
subjected to upon completion. The AWS has assigned an individual letter designation to
all common non-destructive examination methods. These designations identify the
pertinent examination method. Table 3 shows the basic non-destructive testing methods
and their letter designations.
Non-Destructive Test Letter Designation

Acoustic emission test AET
Eddy current (electromagnetic test) ET
Leak test LT
Magnetic particle test MT
Neutron radiographic test NRT
Penetrant test PT
Proof test PRT
Radiographic test RT
Ultrasonic test UT
Phased array ultrasonics PA
Visual test VT
Table 3 - AWS non-destructive examination letter designations.
Elements and Location

To convey the required test information, the non-destructive examination symbol must
contain some or all of the following elements:
reference line,
arrow line,
examination method letter designation,
dimensions, areas and number of examinations,
supplementary symbols,
tail and/or
codes, specifications and other references.
Standard supplementary symbols for all around and field operations remain the same as
for welds.
The NDE examination symbols identify:

1. test location symbols,
2. direction of radiation symbol,
3. combined welding and NDE symbols and
4. dimension of NDE symbols.
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NOTES Figure 53 shows a master graph of NDE examination symbols.
Figure 53 - Master graph of testing symbols.
Test Location Symbols

The significance of arrow side, other side and both sides for basic welding symbols
applies to testing symbols. Test symbols may be applied in three locations with respect to
the reference line (Figure 54):
1. the arrow side,
2. the other side or
3. centred on the reference line.
Figure 54 - NDE test symbol locations.
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When examinations are to be performed on both sides of the part, pertinent letter NOTES
designations must be specified on both sides of the reference line, even if the examination
methods are identical (Figure 55).
Figure 55 - Significance of NDE testing symbols on both sides.
If the NDE symbols have no arrow or other side significance, they must be centred on the
reference line (Figure 56).
Figure 56 - Symbol location having no arrow or other side significance.
Direction of Radiation Symbol

An additional symbol for direction of radiation (Figure 57) indicates where the
radioactive source is to be positioned relative to the weld joint.
Figure 57 - Direction of radiation symbol.

For example, it is possible to use this symbol to indicate the direction and positioning of
the radiation source by specifying the radiation source angle (Figure 58).
Figure 58 - Radiographic source testing angle specification.
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NOTES Combined Welding and NDE Symbols
Combining welding and NDE symbols has a practical advantage. It ensures that shop
fabrication personnel obtain full information for welding and indicates the quality of
work required. The examination of final welds can only be performed after welding is
completed. Multiple reference lines must be used to specify the sequence of operations
(Figure 59).
Figure 59 - Combined welding and testing symbols.

More than one examination method may be shown in the symbol as in Figure 60.
Figure 60 - Use of different testing methods.

Examination methods with and without arrow side significance can be combined, but the
symbol must reflect the significance (Figure 61). The tail of the symbol may be used for
procedural specifications or other references essential to the application of the
examination methods.
Figure 61 - Symbols with and without arrow side significance.
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Dimensioning NDE Symbols NOTES
Dimensions applied to testing symbols may indicate the length of section to be tested or
the percentage of section to be tested. Length or percentage is shown only when a partial
section is tested.
A specified length subject to examination should be placed on the right side of the letter
designation for the selected examination method (Figure 62). To indicate the exact
location of a specific length of the joint to be examined, the information must be on the
drawing.
Figure 62 - Specification of length of examination.

If the entire length of a joint is to be examined, this length need not be specified in the
symbol. Occasionally, a given percentage of the total length of a joint will be subject to
examination. The location of the segment is usually determined just prior to examination.
The symbols in Figure 63 indicate the percentage of each weld to be tested. It is not to be
interpreted as an indication of the percentage of testing for all welds.
Figure 63 - Location of partial testing notation.

To specify a given number of examinations at random locations, the number of required
tests is placed in brackets and positioned as in Figure 64. The required length to be
examined may also be included.
Figure 64 - Number of tests required.

The all around symbol specifies examination of the weld around the whole joint, and the
field test symbol indicates testing done on the job site (Figure 65).
Figure 65 - Test all around and field test symbols.
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NOTES
Self-Test
1. The purpose of welding symbols is to:
a) make the drafting job complete.
b) convey necessary welding information from designer to welder.
c) specify the type of weld to use.
d) convey necessary weld dimensions.
2. Define weld symbol.
3. List the four (4) types of welds included in the basic weld symbols.
a)
b)
c)
d)
4. Define welding symbol.
5. List the eight (8) elements of a welding symbol.

a)
b)
c)
d)
e)
f)
g)
h)
6. Of the eight (8) elements of a welding symbol, which two (2) must always appear?
a)
b)
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7. Briefly describe and explain these supplementary welding symbols. NOTES
a) weld all around
b) field weld
c) contour and finish
d) melt through
8. Briefly explain the following terms.

a) arrow side
b) other side
c) both sides
9. What is the purpose of a broken arrow line?
10. The tail on a welding symbol is used for:

a) determining arrow side or other side.
b) joints using fillet welds only.
c) information that cannot be put into symbol form.
d) indicating which side of the joint must be prepared.
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NOTES 11. List three (3) weld symbols that have one leg perpendicular to the reference line.
a)
b)
c)
12. In a correctly drawn welding symbol, the reference line must:

a) have a single arrow only.
b) be drawn horizontally.
c) be drawn with a tail.
d) have all weld symbols on the arrow side.
13. A field weld is shown on the welding symbol by a:

a) solid black circle.
b) notation in the tail.
c) ring around the weld symbol.
d) solid black flag.
14. A surfacing weld symbol is always drawn on the ___________________ side of the
reference line.
a) arrow
b) other
c) right
d) left
15. A weld symbol must depict the:

a) three most essential elements of the weld.
b) desired shape of the weld to be applied.
c) joint dimensions and welding process.
d) member that is to be prepared and where it is welded.
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16. In Table 4, draw the welding symbol for each description on the left. NOTES
Description Symbol
a) single J groove weld, other side, fillet weld
arrow side
b) fillet weld both sides, arrow side made flat by
chipping
c) fillet weld arrow side, single bevel groove
weld other side
d) single U groove weld, all around, arrow
side
e) fillet weld all around, other side, field weld to
specification J-2
f) single square groove weld, arrow
side
g) double Vee groove weld, finished flat by
welding arrow side
h) single J groove weld arrow side, single U
groove weld other side
i) single Vee groove weld other side, back weld
arrow side
j) single bevel groove weld arrow side, melt
through is to be ground flat
k) surface to be built up by
welding
l) plug weld on other side, machine
flat
m) slot weld on arrow side to specification
23
n) double square groove weld, arrow side made
convex by chipping, other side made flat by
grinding.
o) staggered intermittent fillet weld to
specification a3
p) double J groove weld with fillet weld on arrow
side
q) fillet weld on other side, single bevel groove
weld and fillet weld on arrow side
r) single Vee groove weld other side, single U
groove weld arrow side
s) chain intermittent fillet welds, 50 mm long,
200 mm pitch, both sides, arrow side ground
flat
t) double bevel groove weld with fillet weld on
other side
u) double U groove weld, arrow side welded
flat
v) single bevel groove weld other side, single J
groove weld arrow side
w) double J groove welds with fillet welds both
sides
x) single square groove weld and fillet weld on
arrow side single bevel groove weld on other
side
Table 4
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NOTES 17. Describe the welds represented by the welding symbols in Figure 66.
Figure 66
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NOTES
Figure 66 (continued)
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NOTES 18. Use Figure 67 to answer the questions. From the welding symbols in the left-hand
column, show the preparation, dimensions and outline of the completed weld in the
right-hand column. Use dotted lines to show preparation and solid lines to show the
weld.
Figure 67
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NOTES
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NOTES 19. Use Figure 68 to answer the questions. From the weld shown in the right-hand
column, show the complete welding symbol on the reference lines in the left-hand
column.
Figure 68
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NOTES
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NOTES 20. Write down the information given on the following welding symbols listing the
proper sequence for a) and b) in in Figure 69.
Figure 69
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21. In Figure 70 fill in the figure on the right with the appropriate preparation, weld and NOTES
finish. Use dotted lines for the preparation, and solid lines for the welds.
Figure 70
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NOTES
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NOTES
Self-Test Answers
1. b) convey necessary welding information from designer to welder.
2. A weld symbol is a pictograph that indicates the desired type of weld.
3. a) surfacing
b) fillet
c) plug or slot
d) groove
4. A welding symbol is an assembled symbol that combines multiple weld symbols into
one giving all the information necessary for preparing and/or welding the joint.
5. a) reference line
b) arrow line
c) basic weld symbols
d) dimensions and other data
e) supplementary symbols
f) finish symbols
g) tail
h) specifications process or other references.
6. a) reference line
b) arrow line
7. a) A joint that requires welding all around one side (or both sides if shown) is
designated by an open circle where the arrow line joins the reference line.
b) Field welds are indicated by a solid black flag pointing to the weld symbol
located where the arrow line joins the reference line.
c) A contour symbol is used to indicate the desired shape of the weld surface as
concave, flat or convex. It may be accompanied by a letter (M, C or G for
machined, chipped or ground) to indicate how the shape is attained.
d) A solid semicircle opposite a groove weld symbol indicates that penetration
through the thickness of the material is required. This weld is done from the same
side as the groove weld.
8. a) The arrow side of the welding symbol refers to the side (bottom) of the reference
line closest to the reader when reading the drawing. It refers to welding done on
the side of the weld joint to where the arrow line points.
b) The other side of the welding symbol refers to the side (top) of the reference line
farthest from the reader. It refers to welding done on the side of the weld joint
opposite to where the arrow line points.
c) With the exception of the melt through symbol, weld symbols that appear on both
sides of the reference line mean that welding is done on both sides of the weld
joint.
9. A broken arrow line is used with bevel groove and J groove weld symbols to indicate
which side of the joint requires the preparation. The break is preferred, but may be
ignored if the joint design makes it obvious which side needs preparation.
10. c) information that cannot be put into symbol form.
11. a) fillet weld symbol
b) bevel groove weld symbol
c) J groove weld symbol
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NOTES 12. b) be drawn horizontally.
13. d) solid black flag.
14. a) arrow
15. b) desired shape of the weld to be applied.
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16. Figure 71 shows the correct symbols. NOTES
Figure 71
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NOTES 17. a) single J groove weld, other side, fillet weld arrow side
b) fillet weld both sides, arrow side made flat by chipping.
c) fillet weld arrow side, single bevel groove weld other side
d) single U groove weld, all around, arrow side
e) fillet weld all around, other side field weld to specification J-2
f) single square groove weld, arrow side
g) double Vee groove weld, finished flat by welding arrow side
h) single J groove weld arrow side, single U groove weld other side
i) single Vee groove weld other side, back weld arrow side
j) single bevel groove weld arrow side, melt through is to be ground flat
k) surface to be built up by welding
l) plug weld on other side, machine flat
m) slot weld on arrow side to specification 23
n) double square groove weld, arrow side made convex by chipping, other side
made flat by grinding
o) staggered intermittent fillet weld to specification a3
p) double J groove weld with fillet weld on arrow side
q) fillet weld on other side, single bevel groove weld and fillet weld on arrow side
r) single Vee groove weld other side, single U groove weld arrow side
s) chain intermittent fillets welds, 50 mm long, 200 mm pitch, both sides, arrow
side ground flat
t) double bevel groove weld with fillet weld on other side.
u) double U groove weld, arrow side welded flat.
v) single bevel groove weld other side, single J groove weld arrow side
w) double J groove welds with fillet welds both sides
x) single square groove weld and fillet weld on arrow side single bevel groove weld
on other side.
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18. Figure 72 shows the correct diagrams. NOTES
Figure 72
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NOTES 19. Figure 73 shows the correct drawings.
Figure 73
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20. a) First step: U groove preparation is welded on the arrow side in the field. Second NOTES
step: joint is back gouged to sound metal with a U groove configuration and
welded in the field.
b) First step: single bevel groove preparation is welded all around from the arrow
side in the field with full penetration as indicated by the melt through symbol.
Second step: a fillet weld is applied all around on the arrow side in the field.
21. Figure 74 shows the correct diagrams.
Figure 74
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NOTES
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Module Number 120102f
Version 7.0

Welding Symbols

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120102f

Welding Technology and Properties of Metals

Purpose of Welding Symbols

Welding symbols are a schematic or symbolic representation of a weld joint preparation

Weld Symbol and Welding Symbol

Basic Weld Symbol

Figure 1 - Basic weld symbols.

Supplementary Weld Symbol

Figure 2 - Supplementary symbols.

Figure 3 - Locations of the elements of a welding symbol.

Figure 4 - Multiple arrow lines.

Figure 5 - Welds on the arrow side of the joint.

Figure 6 - Welds on the other side of the joint.

Figure 7 - Welds on both sides of the reference line.

Broken Arrow Line

Figure 8 - Use of the broken arrow line.

Surfacing Weld Symbol

Figure 9 - Surfacing weld symbol.

Figure 10 - Fillet weld symbols.

Plug or Slot Weld Symbol

Figure 11 - Plug or slot weld symbol.

Groove Weld Symbols

Square Groove Weld Symbol

Figure 12 - Square groove weld symbols.

Figure 13 - Vee groove weld symbols.

Bevel Groove Weld Symbol

Figure 14 - Bevel groove weld symbols.

U Groove Weld Symbol

Figure 15 - U groove weld symbols.

Figure 16 - Dotted U groove weld symbol (CSA only).

Figure 17 - J groove weld symbols.

Back Weld or Backing Weld Symbols

Figure 18 - The back weld or backing weld symbol.

Supplementary Weld Symbols

Weld All Around Symbol

Figure 19 - Weld all around symbol.

Figure 20 - Weld all around example.

Field Weld Symbol

Figure 21 - The field weld symbol.

Joints with Backing or Spacers

Figure 22 - Weld symbols for joints with backing.

Joint with Spacers

Figure 23 - Weld symbols for joints with spacers.

Figure 24 - The melt through symbol.

Contour and Finishing Symbols

Figure 25 - Contour symbols.

Figure 26 - Symbols for method of finishing.

Figure 27 - The tail of a welding symbol.

Figure 28 - Using the tail to specify the welding process.

Figure 29 - Significance of GTSM.

Process Type Process Letter

Process Type Process Letter

Figure 30 - Combination symbols.

Figure 31 - Multiple reference line sequence.

Figure 32 - Combination symbol.

Figure 33 - Multiple reference line symbol.

Figure 34 - Supplementary symbols may be used with multiple reference lines.

Rules for Dimensioning Welding Symbols

Surface Weld Dimensioning

Figure 35 - Surfacing weld dimensioning.

A surfacing weld does not indicate the welding of a joint.

Plug Weld and Slot Weld Dimensioning

Figure 36 - Plug weld dimensioning.