CJP Welds

Introduction
When a groove weld has a throat dimension equal to
the plates it joins, the weld is called CJP (Complete
Joint penetration) weld. Melting of the edges to be
joined occurs throughout the full thickness of the
parts in a CJP weld. CJP weld is also known as FP (Full
Penetration) weld. Both these terms FP & CJP are
sometimes being misunderstood as two different
types of weld, while they are the same. Also, error of
unnecessarily specifying a CJP on drawings is found to
be very common. As per this clause, it means that if no dimension is
given with a groove weld symbol in drawing, it is
meant to be welded as a CJP weld in fabrication. Size
of a groove weld shall not be absent from welding
symbol unless a CJP is required.

PJP CJP There are different ways to specify a CJP as per AWS
A2.4:

Unknowingly specifying CJP  Mention “CJP” in the tail of the symbol.

Butt joints loaded in tension are the most common
application of using a CJP weld like in lifting lugs.
Need of CJP weld in joints loaded in compression and
shear should be evaluated properly because making a
CJP weld is costly & needs special efforts/techniques
in fabrication.
Sometimes a CJP weld becomes necessary because of
the requirement of inspecting the weld joint 100%
volumetrically (UT/RT) as PJP & Fillet welds can’t be
inspected reliably with UT/RT.
Unknowingly specifying CJP
 Giving a size in double groove weld which will
cover full thickness of parts.
 Specifying a groove weld symbol without size.
 Use of Back or Backing weld symbol.
 Mention ‘Back-gouging’ in the tail.
Summary
Although there are many ways, but giving a bevel
symbol without any size along with CJP in tail is the
most common and simple method. Being the most
expensive to fabricate, the CJP weld shall be used
only when really required and no other alternate
weld type will serve the purpose.

The simplicity of specifying a CJP weld has leaded the

designers to unnecessarily use of CJP. Sometimes, CJP
is specified on drawings unknowingly. Refer the
below shown clause of most commonly used welding
symbol standard AWS A2.4,