DRAFT INTERNATIONAL STANDARD ISO/DIS 2553

ISO/TC 44/SC 7 Secretariat: BSI

Voting begins on Voting terminates on

2011-04-07 2011-09-07
INTERNATIONAL ORGANIZATION FOR STANDARDIZATION • МЕЖДУНАРОДНАЯ ОРГАНИЗАЦИЯ ПО СТАНДАРТИЗАЦИИ • ORGANISATION INTERNATIONALE DE NORMALISATION

Welding and allied processes — Symbolic representation

on drawings — Welded, brazed and soldered joints

Soudage et techniques connexes — Représentations symboliques sur les dessins — Joints soudés et brasés

[Revision of third edition (ISO 2553:1992)]

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ICS 01.100.20; 25.160.40
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EN
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ISO/CEN PARALLEL PROCESSING

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This draft has been developed within the International Organization for Standardization (ISO), and
processed under the ISO-lead mode of collaboration as defined in the Vienna Agreement.
This draft is hereby submitted to the ISO member bodies and to the CEN member bodies for a parallel
five-month enquiry.
Should this draft be accepted, a final draft, established on the basis of comments received, will be
submitted to a parallel two-month approval vote in ISO and formal vote in CEN.

To expedite distribution, this document is circulated as received from the committee

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secretariat. ISO Central Secretariat work of editing and text composition will be undertaken at
publication stage.
Pour accélérer la distribution, le présent document est distribué tel qu'il est parvenu du
secrétariat du comité. Le travail de rédaction et de composition de texte sera effectué au
Secrétariat central de l'ISO au stade de publication.

THIS DOCUMENT IS A DRAFT CIRCULATED FOR COMMENT AND APPROVAL. IT IS THEREFORE SUBJECT TO CHANGE AND MAY NOT BE
REFERRED TO AS AN INTERNATIONAL STANDARD UNTIL PUBLISHED AS SUCH.

IN ADDITION TO THEIR EVALUATION AS BEING ACCEPTABLE FOR INDUSTRIAL, TECHNOLOGICAL, COMMERCIAL AND USER PURPOSES,
DRAFT INTERNATIONAL STANDARDS MAY ON OCCASION HAVE TO BE CONSIDERED IN THE LIGHT OF THEIR POTENTIAL TO BECOME
STANDARDS TO WHICH REFERENCE MAY BE MADE IN NATIONAL REGULATIONS.

RECIPIENTS OF THIS DRAFT ARE INVITED TO SUBMIT, WITH THEIR COMMENTS, NOTIFICATION OF ANY RELEVANT PATENT RIGHTS OF WHICH
THEY ARE AWARE AND TO PROVIDE SUPPORTING DOCUMENTATION.

© International Organization for Standardization, 2011

ISO/DIS 2553

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Copyright notice
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This ISO document is a Draft International Standard and is copyright-protected by ISO. Except as permitted
under the applicable laws of the user’s country, neither this ISO draft nor any extract from it may be
reproduced, stored in a retrieval system or transmitted in any form or by any means, electronic,
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Violators may be prosecuted.

ii © ISO 2011 – All rights reserved

 ISO/DIS 2553

Contents Page

1
Foreword ..........................................................................................................................................................v 
Introduction .....................................................................................................................................................vi 

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1 Scope ...................................................................................................................................................1 
2 Normative references .........................................................................................................................1 
3 Terms and definitions .........................................................................................................................2 
4 Welding symbol ..................................................................................................................................4 

EN2 0
4.1 General ................................................................................................................................................4 
4.2 Basic welding symbol.........................................................................................................................4 
4.3 Elementary symbols ...........................................................................................................................4 
4.3.1 General ................................................................................................................................................4 
4.3.2 Combinations of elementary symbols...............................................................................................8 
4.3.3 Symmetrical welds ..............................................................................................................................9 

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4.3.4 Asymmetrical welds............................................................................................................................9 
UT N
4.4 Supplementary symbols ...................................................................................................................10 
4.4.1 General .............................................................................................................................................. 10 
4.4.2 Peripheral welds ............................................................................................................................... 12 
4.4.3 Circumferential welds ....................................................................................................................... 12 
KF D
4.4.4 Welds of the same type made from point to point .........................................................................13 
4.4.5 Site welds .......................................................................................................................................... 13 
4.4.6 Root reinforcement – butt welds and edge welds ..........................................................................13 
A

4.5 Arrow line .......................................................................................................................................... 16 

4.5.1 General .............................................................................................................................................. 16 
4.5.2 Multiple arrow lines........................................................................................................................... 16 
4.5.3 Broken arrow line .............................................................................................................................. 17 
R

4.6 Reference line and weld location ..................................................................................................... 17 

4.6.1 Reference line ................................................................................................................................... 17 
4.6.2 Weld location..................................................................................................................................... 17 
4.6.3 Multiple reference lines .................................................................................................................... 19 
4.7 Tail...................................................................................................................................................... 19 
5 Dimensioning of welds ..................................................................................................................... 20 
5.1 General .............................................................................................................................................. 20 
AO

5.2 Cross sectional dimensions.............................................................................................................20 

5.3 Length dimensions ........................................................................................................................... 20 
5.3.1 General .............................................................................................................................................. 20 
5.3.2 Weld location..................................................................................................................................... 20 
RD

5.3.3 Intermittent welds ............................................................................................................................. 20 

5.4 Butt welds .......................................................................................................................................... 21 
5.4.1 Weld size ........................................................................................................................................... 21 
5.4.2 Symmetrical butt welds .................................................................................................................... 21 
5.4.3 Asymmetrical butt welds .................................................................................................................. 21 
5.4.4 Edge welds on flanged butt and flanged corner joints ..................................................................21 
5.4.5 Flare bevel and flare V butt welds ................................................................................................... 21 
5.5 Fillet welds......................................................................................................................................... 22 
5.5.1 Weld size ........................................................................................................................................... 22 
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5.5.2 Deep penetration fillet welds............................................................................................................22 

5.6 Plug welds ......................................................................................................................................... 22 
5.7 Slot welds .......................................................................................................................................... 22 
5.8 Spot welds ......................................................................................................................................... 23 
5.9 Seam welds ....................................................................................................................................... 23 
5.10 Edge welds ........................................................................................................................................ 23 

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ISO/DIS 2553

5.11 Stud welds .........................................................................................................................................23 

5.12 Surfacing welds ................................................................................................................................23 
6 Joint dimensions and geometry prior to welding ...........................................................................41 
6.1 General ..............................................................................................................................................41 

1
6.2 Root opening .....................................................................................................................................41 
6.3 Included angle ...................................................................................................................................42 
6.4 Radii and root faces - U and J butt joints ........................................................................................43 
6.5 Depth of joint preparation ................................................................................................................43 
6.6 Countersink angle for plug and slot welds .....................................................................................43 

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7 Method of symbolic representation of essential design information ...........................................45 
7.1 General ..............................................................................................................................................45 
7.2 Symbols and information to be provided ........................................................................................48 
7.3 Examples ...........................................................................................................................................48 

EN2 0
Annex A (informative) Examples of the use of welding symbols ...............................................................50 
Annex B (informative) Tolerances and transitions points for weld types ........................................................62 
Annex C (informative) AWS A2.4 methods for designating intermittent welds ................................................63 
Annex D (informative) Designation of welds of the same type made from point to point ........................66 

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Bibliography ...................................................................................................................................................67 
UT N
KF DA
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iv © ISO 2010 – All rights reserved

 ISO/DIS 2553

Foreword

1
ISO (the International Organization for Standardization) is a worldwide federation of national standards bodies
(ISO member bodies). The work of preparing International Standards is normally carried out through ISO
technical committees. Each member body interested in a subject for which a technical committee has been
established has the right to be represented on that committee. International organizations, governmental and

T 1
non-governmental, in liaison with ISO, also take part in the work. ISO collaborates closely with the
International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC) on all matters of electrotechnical standardization.

International Standards are drafted in accordance with the rules given in the ISO/IEC Directives, Part 2.

EN2 0
The main task of technical committees is to prepare International Standards. Draft International Standards
adopted by the technical committees are circulated to the member bodies for voting. Publication as an
International Standard requires approval by at least 75 % of the member bodies casting a vote.

ISO 2553 was prepared by Technical Committee ISO/TC 44, Welding and allied processes, Subcommittee
SC 7, Representation and terms.

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This fourth edition cancels and replaces the third edition (ISO 2553:1992) which has been technically revised.

Requests for official interpretations of any aspect of this standard should be directed to the Secretariat of
ISO/TC 44/SC 7 via your national standards body, a complete listing of which can be found at ww.iso.org.
KF DA
AO R
RD
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© ISO 2010 – All rights reserved v

ISO/DIS 2553

Introduction

1
The symbols included in this standard are intended to facilitate communication between the designer, the fabrication
shop and examination and inspection personnel. The symbols can be combined with other drawing symbols and
may also be supplemented by additional information. However, the symbols cannot always provide all the
information necessary in order to ensure that a fabrication is viable.

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It is essential that throughout all stages of production, from product conception and design through to manufacture,
that there is adequate interaction between all personnel and departments concerned. The designer should be
familiar with the limitations of the joining and non-destructive testing processes and know how to specify adequate
welded, brazed or soldered joint sizes. The fabrication and inspection personnel may advise the designer on joining

EN2 0
processes and requirements for examination and testing. It may be that a designer wishes to place one or more
welded, brazed or soldered joints in a particular position that the production personnel, for one reason or another,
cannot produce. It may be that the positioning of the welded, brazed or soldered joints, as defined by the designer,
may be cost prohibitive and may have to be moved elsewhere by changing the design.

It is important that all these issues are resolved before production starts in order to avoid costly redesign and/or

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rework.
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As with all standards, training and familiarisation with the usage of the symbols in this document is paramount. It
has been assumed, in the drafting of this International Standard, its usage shall be entrusted to appropriately
qualified and experienced personnel.
KF D
Using an incorrect symbol can lead to confusion and delay whilst the drawing is checked. Similarly, personnel who
are not familiar with the symbols may need to spend time checking on their meaning. In both instances, any
A

incorrectly made welded, brazed or soldered joints may result in costly rework.

ISO 2553 recognizes that there are two somewhat different approaches in the global market to designate the arrow
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side and other side on drawings, and allows for either to be used in isolation, to suit a particular market need.
Application of either approach identifies a welding symbol in accordance with this International Standard. The
approach in accordance with system A is based on ISO 2553:1992. The approach in accordance with system B is
based upon AWS A2.4.
AO
RD
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vi © ISO 2010 – All rights reserved

DRAFT INTERNATIONAL STANDARD ISO/DIS 2553

Welding and allied processes — Symbolic representation

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on drawings — Welded, brazed and soldered joints

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1 Scope

This International Standard defines the rules to be applied for symbolic representation of welded, brazed and
soldered joints in metallic materials on technical drawings. This can include information about the geometry,
manufacture, quality and testing of the welds.

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This International standard is a combined specification that recognizes that there are two different approaches in the
global market to designate the arrow side and other side on drawings. It should be noted that:

 Clauses, Tables and Figures which carry the suffix letter "A" are applicable only to the symbolic representation
system based on the dual reference line from ISO 2553:1992;

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Clauses, Tables and Figures which carry the suffix letter "B" are applicable only to the symbolic representation
system based on the single reference line from AWS A2.4;

 Clauses, Tables and Figures which do not have the suffix letter "A" or the suffix letter "B" are applicable to both
KF D
systems.

Systems A and B should not be mixed and drawings shall clearly indicate which system is used as well as units of
A

measurement in accordance with ISO 129-1 (see also 4.1).

The symbols shown in this International Standard can be combined with other symbols used on technical drawings
for example to show surface finish requirements.
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Clause 7 describes an alternative designation method which can be used to represent welded joints on drawings by
specifying essential design information, e.g. weld dimensions, quality level etc. The joint preparation and welding
process(es) are then determined by the production unit in order to meet the specified requirements.

NOTE Examples given in this International Standard, including dimensions, are illustrative only and are intended to
demonstrate the proper application of principles. They are not intended to represent good design practices, or to replace code or
specification requirements.
AO

2 Normative references
RD

The following referenced documents are indispensable for the application of this document. For dated references,
only the edition cited applies. For undated references, the latest edition of the referenced document (including any
amendments) applies.

ISO 128, Technical drawings – General principles of presentation

ISO 129-1, Technical drawings – Indication of dimensions and tolerances – Part 1: General principles

ISO 1302, Geometrical Product Specifications (GPS) – Indication of surface texture in technical product
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documentation

ISO 3098-2, Technical product documentation – Lettering – Part 2: Latin alphabet, numerals and marks

ISO 4063, Welding and allied processes – Nomenclature of processes and reference numbers

ISO 17659, Welding — Multilingual terms for welded joints with illustrations

1 © ISO 2010 – All rights reserved

ISO/DIS 2553

ISO/TR 25901:2007, Welding and related processes — Vocabulary

3 Terms and definitions

1
For the purposes of this document, the terms and definitions given in ISO 17659, ISO/TR 25901:2007 and the
following apply.

3.1
welding symbol

T 1
symbol consisting of an arrow line and a reference line and which may also include elementary and supplementary
symbols and/or tail, used on technical drawings to indicate welded brazed or soldered joint type, location and joint
preparation

NOTE 1 See Clause 4.

EN2 0
3.2
basic welding symbol
symbol consisting of an arrow line, reference line and tail used when the joint is not specified and only to indicate
that a welded, brazed or soldered joint is to be made

NOTE 1 See Figure 1.

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NOTE 2

3.3
UT N
Often used to indicate the location of tack welds.
KF D
arrow line
element of the welding symbol that is used to indicate the joint that is to be welded, brazed or soldered, generally
drawn at 135° to the reference line
A

NOTE 1 See 4.5.

NOTE 2 The arrow line may be drawn at 45° to the reference line where space does not permit use of 135°.
R

3.4
reference line
element of the welding symbol on which the elementary symbol is located, generally drawn parallel to the bottom
edge of the drawing

NOTE See 4.6.

AO

3.4.1
continuous line
solid element of the reference line
RD

NOTE The continuous line is used in conjunction with a dashed line (system A) or alone (system B and system A
symmetrical welds).

3.4.2
dashed line
component of the reference line used to identify the other side of the joint to where the arrow line is pointing and
which can be drawn either above or below the continuous line

NOTE 1 The dashed line is ONLY used in accordance with system A and in conjunction with a continuous line.
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NOTE 2 It is preferred that the dashed line be drawn below the continuous line.

3.5
tail
V shaped element added to the end of the continuous reference line away from the arrow line

2 © ISO 2010 – All rights reserved

 ISO/DIS 2553

NOTE See 4.7.

3.6
arrow side
the side of the joint to which the arrow line is pointing

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NOTE See 4.6.2.1.

3.7
other side

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the opposite side of the joint to which the arrow line is pointing

NOTE See 4.6.2.1.

3.8

EN2 0
elementary symbol
symbol forming part of the welding symbol and drawn on the reference line to indicate the type of weld and joint
preparation

NOTE See 4.3.

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3.9 UT N
supplementary symbol
symbol used in conjunction with elementary symbols to convey more information about the joint

NOTE See 4.4.

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3.10
complementary information
A

non symbolic information, relevant to the welds being made, which may be included in the tail of the welding symbol

NOTE See 4.7.

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3.11
intermittent weld
series of welds made at intervals along a joint [ISO/TR 25901:2007]

NOTE See 5.3.3.

3.11.1
AO

chain intermittent weld

intermittent weld on both sides of a joint in which the welds on one side are approximately opposite those on the
other side
RD

NOTE See 5.3.3.2.

3.11.2
staggered intermittent weld
intermittent weld on both sides of a joint in which the welds on one side are alternated with respect to those on the
other side

NOTE See 5.3.3.3.

3.12
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offset
the distance between the start of welding on one side of a staggered intermittent weld made on both sides of the
joint and the start of welding on the other side

NOTE 1 See 5.3.3.3, Table 3 and Table 6, No 2.6.

© ISO 2010 – All rights reserved 3

ISO/DIS 2553

NOTE 2 If the centres of the welds on one side of the joint correspond with the centres of the gaps on the opposite side of the
joint, offset need not be specified.

4 Welding symbol

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4.1 General

The reference line and arrow line are required elements. Additional elements may be included to convey specific
information.

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It is preferable that the welding symbol is shown on the same side of the joint that the weld is to be made, i.e. the
arrow side (see 4.6).

The thickness of the arrow lines, reference line, weld symbols and lettering shall be in accordance with ISO 128 and

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ISO 3098-2.

NOTE In order not to overburden drawings, additional information should be conveyed by other means for example; by
drawing notes or details; references to standards and welding procedure specifications (WPS's) or other drawings or instructions
that eliminate the need to include the corresponding elements in the symbol – see Figure 6b.

4.2 Basic welding symbol

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If joint details are not specified and the only requirement is to indicate that a joint is to be welded, the basic symbol
shown in Figure 1 can be used. In this case, a dual reference line is not required for system A (see 4.6.1A) as no
details concerning the weld are being conveyed.
KF DA
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Key
AO

1 Arrow line
2 Reference line
3 Tail
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Figure 1 — Basic welding symbol (joint details and type not specified)

NOTE 1 A tail, without additional information, is added to the basic welding symbol to clarify that a weld is to be made.

NOTE 2 This symbol is often used to indicate the location of tack welds.

Examples of comprehensive welding symbols showing the location of elements are given in Figure A.1.

4.3 Elementary symbols

D

4.3.1 General

Elementary symbols, in accordance with Table 1, can be added to the reference line in both Systems A and B to
indicate the type of joint to be made.

4 © ISO 2010 – All rights reserved

 ISO/DIS 2553

Elementary symbols form part of the welding symbol and shall be drawn on the reference line (i.e. attached)
generally at the mid-point.

Elementary symbols can be complemented by:

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 supplementary symbols (see 4.4 and Table 3);

 dimensions (see Clause 5);

 complementary information.

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Elementary symbols cannot be used alone to define the joining process to be used.

When the angle between the fusion faces is such that identification of the weld type and weld symbol are unclear,

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reference should be made to ISO 17659 and ISO/TR 25901 (see also Annex B). Otherwise, information concerning
the desired joint and weld configuration shall be shown on the drawing or elsewhere.

NOTE In general, elementary symbols are similar in shape/geometry to the shape of the actual joint. They can also indicate
the type of joint prior to welding, for example V butt weld.

Table 1 — Elementary symbols

M I
No.
UT N
Weld Preparation
and type
Illustration of Weld
(dashed lines show joint preparation prior to
welding)
Symbol a
KF D
1 Square butt b
A
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2 Single-V butt b

Single-V butt
3 with broad root face
(see ISO 9692) b
AO

4 Single-bevel butt b
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Single-bevel butt
5
with broad root face b
D

6 Single-U butt b

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Table 1 (continued)

No. Weld Preparation Illustration of Weld Symbol a

and type (dashed lines show joint preparation prior to welding)

1
7 Single-J butt b

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8 Flare V

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UT N
KF D
9 Flare Bevel
A
R

a) Back weld/
sealing run/UK c
AO

(made after the single-V

butt weld)

10
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b) Backing weld c
(made before the single-
V butt weld)
D

11 Fillet

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Table 1 (continued)

No. Weld Preparation Illustration of Weld Symbol a

and type (dashed lines show joint preparation prior to welding)

1
12 Plug or slot

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Resistance Spot
13

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(including projection)

14 Fusion spot

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KF D
15 Resistance seam
A
R

16 Fusion seam
AO
RD

17 Stud
D

Steep-flanked
18
Single-V butt b

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Table 1 (continued)

No. Weld Preparation Illustration of Weld Symbol a

and type (dashed lines show joint preparation prior to
welding)

1
Steep-flanked
19
single-bevel butt b

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20 Edge d

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21 Surfacing/overlay
UT N
KF DA
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Stake
22 (electron beam and laser
beam welding)
AO
RD

a The gray line is not part of the symbol. It indicates the position of the reference line.
b Butt welds may be partial or full penetration which is to be indicated by dimensions on the weld symbol or by reference to other information, for
example the WPS.
c The order of welding shall be clearly indicated on the drawing e.g. by use of multiple reference lines, a note in the tail or by reference to a weld
procedure specification. See also supplementary symbol, root reinforcement.
d Can be used for joints with more than 2 members.

4.3.2 Combinations of elementary symbols

D

Elementary symbols can be combined as required to represent particular joint configurations. The elementary
symbols shall be placed in the order that the welded joint is produced with the first operation closest to the reference
line.

8 © ISO 2010 – All rights reserved

 ISO/DIS 2553

NOTE An alternate method of combining welding operations is to use multiple reference lines (see 4.6.3 on the use
of multiple reference lines and Table 2, No. 4).

4.3.3 Symmetrical welds

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The elementary symbols shall be arranged opposite each other on the reference line when used to represent
symmetrical welds.

Typical examples of the use of combined elementary symbols to represent symmetrical welds are shown in Table 2.

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NOTE For system A, as there is no arrow side/other side significance with symmetrical welds the dashed line is not required
and can be omitted (see 4.6.1A).

4.3.4 Asymmetrical welds

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The elementary symbols shall be arranged in accordance with 4.3.3 but the different sized welds shall be identified
in accordance with Clause 5. Examples of the use of welding symbols to designate asymmetrical welds are shown
in Table A.3.

Table 2 — Combined elementary symbols to represent symmetrical double sided welds

Symbol b

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No. Weld type Illustration of
UT N Weld a
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1 Double-V butt
A
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2 Double bevel butt

AO

3 Double-U butt
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Double bevel butt

(with broad root
4 face) and
reinforcing fillet
welds
D

a Welds may be partial or full penetration which is to be indicated by dimensions on the weld symbol or by reference to other
information, for example the WPS.
b The gray line is not part of the symbol. It indicates the position of the reference line.

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ISO/DIS 2553

4.4 Supplementary symbols

4.4.1 General

Additional information concerning the required joint can be provided by the use of supplementary symbols in

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accordance with Table 3. Supplementary symbols can for example provide information about the shape of the weld
or how the welded joint shall be made.

NOTE The absence of a supplementary symbol means no additional information has been specified on the drawing.

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Table 3 — Supplementary symbols
No. Designation Symbol a Application Illustration of
Example a Weld

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Flat - finished
1
flush b

2 Convex b

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UT N
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3 Concave b
A
R

Toes blended
4 no example
smoothly c

Root
5
reinforcement d
AO

Backing
6a
(unspecified)
RD

Permanent
6b
backing e

Removable/temp
6c
orary backing e
D

7 Spacer

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Table 3 (continued)
No. Designation Symbol a Application Illustration of
Example a Weld

1
a) joint showing insert in place

T 1
Consumable
8
insert (square)

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b) final welded joint
(insert incorporated into root)

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KF D
Example A
A
R

9 Weld all-around
AO

Example B
RD

Example C

Site weld
10 No example
D

(field weld)

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ISO/DIS 2553

Table 3 (continued)

No. Designation Symbol a Application Illustration of

Example a Weld

T 1
1
Staggered
11 intermittent welds
f, g

EN2 0
a The gray line is not part of the symbol and is included to show the position of symbol on reference line and/or the arrow line only.
b Welds that require approximately flush or convex faces without post weld finishing are specified by use of the flush or convex contour
symbol. Welds to be finished flush or convex by post weld finishing or that require a flat but not flush surface require additional information e.g.
addition of a note in the tail of the welding symbol Other symbols in accordance with ISO 1302 can be used to specify surface finish.

M I
c When additional processes e.g. TIG welding or ultrasonic welding are to be used to blend toes smoothly, this is to be identified clearly on the

d
UT N
drawing or by reference to specific instructions or other drawings.
To specify a full penetration weld with (required) measurable root reinforcement. The minimum penetration required is to be specified (see
4.4.6.1). Also used to specify full penetration edge welds where no additional dimension is required (see 4.4.6.2).
KF D
e M = material to be part of the final welded joint, MR = material to be removed after welding. Further information on the material can be
included in the tail or elsewhere.
f For other types of weld, the appropriate rules for dimensioning are to be followed (see Clause 5).
g
A

AWS A2.4 defines the length of and pitch of intermittent welds i.e. the distance between the centres of adjacent weld segments (see Annex
C).
R

4.4.2 Peripheral welds

The weld all-around symbol, added at the junction of the arrow and reference lines, may be used to designate a
continuous weld, single or double sided, extending around a series of connected joints (see Table 3).

The series of joints may involve different directions and may lie in more than one plane but the weld shall always be
of the same type and dimensions.
AO

The weld all-around symbol shall not be used if:

a) the weld does not start and end at the same point, i.e. it is not continuous;
RD

b) the weld type changes, for example from a fillet weld to a butt weld;

c) the dimensions change, for example the nominal throat thickness of a fillet weld. In this case, each weld shall
be identified using a separate welding symbol;

NOTE The weld all-around symbol is not used to indicate that welds are to be made everywhere.

4.4.3 Circumferential welds

D

Welds extending around the circumference of a circular section/hole (circular slots) are excluded from the
requirement regarding changes in direction and do not require the use of the weld all-around symbol to specify a
continuous weld.

This does not apply to non-circular sections/holes (e.g. rectangular hollow section), where the weld all-around
symbol shall be used.

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 ISO/DIS 2553

4.4.4 Welds of the same type made from point to point

Annex D, shows examples of how a continuous weld (of the same type) extending around a series of connected
points but where the weld does not start and end at the same point, can be designated. Otherwise, each weld shall
be individually identified in accordance with this International Standard.

1
4.4.5 Site welds

Site welds (also known as field welds) that are not made in a workshop or at the place of initial construction, shall be
specified by adding the site weld symbol at the junction of the arrow and reference lines (see Table 3). The symbol

T 1
shall be placed at a right angle to the reference line and shall be placed above the reference line.

The site weld symbol applies to the whole welding symbol. In the case of combinations of site and shop welds,
separate welding symbols shall be used and/or multiple reference lines (see 4.6.3).

EN2 0
4.4.6 Root reinforcement – butt welds and edge welds

4.4.6.1 Butt welds made from one side

The root reinforcement symbol shall only be used when complete joint penetration plus visible root reinforcement is
required in butt welds made from one side (see Table 3) and is not specified elsewhere e.g. on the WPS or by

M I
reference to ISO 5817.
UT N
The root reinforcement symbol shall be placed on the other side of the reference line opposite the weld symbol.
KF D
If required, the minimum dimension of the root reinforcement shall be placed to the left of the root reinforcement
symbol (see Figure 2). Otherwise, the dimension of the root reinforcement is unspecified.
A
R

Figure 2a — Welding symbol (System A) Figure 2b — Welding symbol (System B)

AO
RD

Figure 2c — Weld produced using either system

Figure 2 — Example of a weld with specified root reinforcement

D

4.4.6.2 Edge welds on flanged butt and flanged corner joints

Full penetration edge welds shall be specified by the edge weld symbol with the root reinforcement symbol placed
on the opposite side of the reference line. The details of the flanges are part of the drawing and shall not be
specified in the welding symbol (see Table 4).

© ISO 2010 – All rights reserved 13

ISO/DIS 2553

No. Weld type

FLANGED BUTT JOINTS

Table 4 — Edge welds on flanged butt joints and flanged corner joints
System A
Welding Symbol
Illustration of
Weld

1 1
System B
Welding Symbol

T
2
Partial

M I
1 penetration
a

U N
EN
K D T
2
Full
penetration
O A
F
R
A
R
D

14
D © ISO 2010 – All rights reserved
 ISO/DIS 2553

No. Weld type System A

Welding Symbol
Table 4 (continued)

Illustration of
Weld

1 1
System B
Welding Symbol

0
FLANGED CORNER JOINTS

T
2
M I
U N
Partial

EN
3 penetration
a

K D T
O A
F
R
A
Full
4
penetration

R
D

a If no dimension is included, this remains a partial penetration weld unless the root reinforcement symbol is added.

D
© ISO 2010 – All rights reserved 15
ISO/DIS 2553

4.5 Arrow line

4.5.1 General

An arrow line shall be used to indicate the joint to be welded. The arrow line shall point to and the arrowhead shall

1
be in contact with a solid line comprising part of the joint on the drawing (visible line).

The arrow line shall be drawn at an angle to and joined to a reference line and completed with a closed filled
arrowhead. The arrow line should generally form an angle of 135° to the reference line (see Figures 1 and 2) but

T 1
may be drawn at 45° when space on the drawing is limited.

4.5.2 Multiple arrow lines

Two or more arrow lines can be combined with a single reference line to indicate the locations of identical welds

EN2 0
(see Figure 3).

M I
UT N
KF DA
R

Figure 3a — System A welding symbol Figure 3b — System B welding symbol

AO
RD

Figure 3c — Welds produced using system A or B

D

Figure 3 — Examples of use of multiple arrow lines

16 © ISO 2010 – All rights reserved

 ISO/DIS 2553

4.5.3 Broken arrow line

For butt welds, when only the edge of one joint member is to be prepared, the arrow line can have a break and point
toward that member. The arrow line need not be broken if it is obvious which member is to be prepared. The arrow
line shall not be broken if there is no preference as to which member is to be prepared.

1
Examples of the use of broken arrow lines are given in Table A.1.

4.6 Reference line and weld location

T 1
4.6.1 Reference line

The reference line in conjunction with elementary symbols, is used to indicate the side of the joint on which the weld
is to be made.

EN2 0
The reference line is generally drawn parallel to the bottom edge of the drawing.

NOTE The reference line can be drawn parallel to the side edge of the drawing (whole welding symbol rotated by 90°) but
should only be done when space does not permit drawing parallel to the bottom edge.

4.6.1A Reference line – System A 4.6.1B Reference line – System B

M I
UT N
The reference line consists of two parallel lines: a
continuous straight line and a dashed line (see
Examples in Annex A).
The reference line shall be drawn as a continuous
straight line (see Examples in Annex A).
KF D
The dashed line can be drawn above or below but
parallel to the continuous line but shall preferably be
drawn below. The dashed line represents the other
A

side of the joint to where the arrowhead is pointing.

The dashed line can be omitted for symmetrical welds

R

and for spot and seam welds made at the interface

between two components.

4.6.2 Weld location

4.6.2.1 Arrow side/Other side

The arrow side is the side of the joint to which the arrowhead is pointing (see Figure 5).
AO

The other side is the opposite side of the joint to which the arrowhead is pointing. The arrow side and other side
always form part of the same joint.
RD

The other side of a joint shall not be confused with a hidden weld forming part of a different joint.

Examples of how to designate welds on the arrow side and other side of joints are given in Annex A, Table A.2.
D

© ISO 2010 – All rights reserved 17

ISO/DIS 2553

4.6.2.1A Arrow side/Other side –System A 4.6.2.1B Arrow side/Other side –System B

Elementary symbols shall be located on the continuous Elementary symbols shall be located below the
line when the weld is to be made on the arrow side of reference line when the weld is to be made on the
the joint. arrow side of the joint.

1
Elementary symbols shall be located on the dashed Elementary symbols shall be located above the
(identification) line when the weld is to be made on the reference line when the weld is to be made on the
other side of the joint. other side of the joint.

T 1
NOTE 1 In system A, the component of the reference line on which the elementary symbol is placed determines the side of
the joint on which the weld is made.

NOTE 2 In system B, the position of the elementary symbol above or below the reference line determines the side of the joint
on which the weld is made

EN2 0
M I
UT N
KF DA
R

Figure 4a — Example 1, Cruciform joint Figure 4b — Example 2, Cruciform joint

Key
AO

1 Joint 1
2 Joint 2
3 Welding symbol - joint 1
4 Arrow side (welding symbol - joint 1)
RD

5 Other side (welding symbol - joint 1)

6 Welding symbol - joint 2
7 Arrow side (welding symbol - joint 2)
8 Other side (welding symbol - joint 2)

Figure 4 — Examples of joints to illustrate arrow side and other side

4.6.2.2 Plug, slot, resistance spot, resistance seam welds and projection welds
D

The arrowhead shall be in contact with the outer surface of one of the joint members, at the centreline of the
required weld.

In the case of welds made at the interface between two members, the weld symbol shall be placed centrally on the
reference line (see Table A.2) and there is no arrow side/other side relevance. In this case, the dashed reference
line can be omitted from System A welding symbols.

18 © ISO 2010 – All rights reserved

 ISO/DIS 2553

For projection welds, the arrow shall point to the sheet containing the projection (see Table A.2).

NOTE AWS A2.4 allows the projection weld symbol to be placed above or below (not centred on) the reference line to
designate the member that receives the embossment.

1
4.6.3 Multiple reference lines

Two or more reference lines can be used to indicate a series of operations. The first operation shall be specified on
the reference line closest to the arrowhead. Subsequent operations shall be specified sequentially on the other
reference lines (see Figure 5).

T 1
NOTE For joints requiring more than one weld type, combined symbols may also be used (see Table 2).

EN2 0
M I
UT N
Figure 5a – Principle Figure 5b – Example
KF D
NOTE Examples shown using system B but can be used in both systems.
A

Key
1 First operation
2 Second Operation
3 Third operation
R

Figure 5 — Multiple reference lines

4.7 Tail

The tail is an optional element which can be added to the end of the continuous reference line (see Figure 6) where
additional complementary information can be included as part of the welding symbol for example:
AO

a) quality level for example in accordance with ISO 5817, ISO 10042, ISO 13919 etc.;

b) the welding process or reference number in accordance with ISO 4063;

RD

c) filler material for example in accordance with ISO 14171, ISO 14341, etc.;

d) welding position for example in accordance with ISO 6947;

e) supplementary information to be considered when making the joint

The information shall be listed and separated by a forward slash (/), (see Figure 6a).
D

A closed tail shall only be used to indicate reference to a specific instruction e.g. reference to a welding procedure
specification (WPS), welding procedure qualification record (WPQR) or other document (see Figure 6b). A closed
tail shall not be used to contain additional information such as listed above.

Repetition of additional information on symbols on a drawing shall be avoided. A single general note on the drawing
shall be used instead.

© ISO 2010 – All rights reserved 19

ISO/DIS 2553

NOTE If no additional information or references to instructions are to be included, the tail can be omitted with the exception
of the basic welding symbol (see Figure 1).

T 1
1
Figure 6a — Open tail Figure 6b — Closed tail

Figure 6 — Examples of the use of a tail on welding symbols

NOTE Figure 6 is shown only with a solid reference line to illustrate the use of the tail.

EN2 0
5 Dimensioning of welds

5.1 General

Dimensions shall be specified on the same side of the reference line as the associated weld symbol (see Figure 2

M I
and Tables 4, 5, 6 and A.3).
UT N
Dual units of measure shall be avoided. If it is desired to show conversions from one system of measure to another,
a table of conversions should be included on the drawing.
KF D
NOTE If there are no references to other information, the dimensions relating to the joint preparation to be
welded can be included close to the symbol (see clause 6).
A

In general, letters are included in the figures/tables for illustrative purposes and are not to be included with
dimensions on drawings unless otherwise stated, e.g. fillet welds and the symbols a (nominal throat thickness), z
(leg length) and s (deep penetration welds).
R

5.2 Cross sectional dimensions

Cross sectional dimensions shall be placed to the left of the weld symbol.

In the absence of any cross sectional dimension, butt welds shall always be full penetration.

5.3 Length dimensions

AO

5.3.1 General

Weld length dimensions shall be placed to the right of the weld symbol.
RD

In the absence of a length dimension, the weld shall be continuous along the entire length of the joint.

5.3.2 Weld location

Start and end points of welds that are not continuous along the entire length of the joint shall not be part of the
welding symbol but indicated clearly as part of the drawing.

5.3.3 Intermittent welds

D

5.3.3.1 General

For intermittent welds, the dimension of the spacing between the welds, (e), shall be placed in parentheses after the
length dimension.

20 © ISO 2010 – All rights reserved

 ISO/DIS 2553

The number of intermittent welds required, n, shall be placed in front of the length dimension. If no number is
specified, intermittent welds shall be made along the whole length of the joint.

NOTE AWS A2.4 defines the length of and pitch of intermittent welds i.e. the distance between the centres of adjacent weld
segments (see Annex C).

1
5.3.3.2 Chain intermittent welds

Chain intermittent welds made on both sides of the joint shall include information concerning the length, spacing
and number of welds for both sides of the joint in accordance with 5.3.3.1.

T 1
5.3.3.3 Staggered intermittent welds

Staggered intermittent welds made on both sides of the joint, shall be designated using the "Z" symbol across the
reference line. In the absence of any information concerning the offset, the centres of the welds on one side of the

EN2 0
joint shall correspond with the centres of the gaps on the opposite side of the joint. Otherwise, the offset shall be
specified in the tail or elsewhere.

NOTE AWS A2.4 does not use the "Z" symbol and indicates staggered welds by offsetting the welding symbols on either
side of the reference line (see Annex C).

M I
5.3.3.4 Extent of welding
UT N
Additional weld lengths at the ends of intermittent welds shall be specified using separate welding symbols.

Unwelded lengths at the ends of intermittent welds shall be specified on the drawing.
KF D
5.4 Butt welds
A

5.4.1 Weld size

For partial penetration butt welds, the thickness of the weld from the surface of the joint to the root of the weld shall
R

be placed to the left of the weld symbol (see Table 6, No. 1).

In the absence of any cross sectional dimension, butt welds shall always be full penetration.

Where joint geometry or joint preparation are not specified a weld symbol cannot be used (see also Clause 7). The
weld dimension shall be placed on the reference line, to the right of the symbol 's' and a tail shall be included on the
reference line. In the case of full penetration welds, no dimension is placed on the reference line (see 5.2).
AO

5.4.2 Symmetrical butt welds

Each weld in partial penetration symmetrical butt welds shall be separately dimensioned.
RD

NOTE Full penetration symmetrical butt welds do not need to be dimensioned.

5.4.3 Asymmetrical butt welds

Each weld in partial or full penetration asymmetrical butt welds shall be separately dimensioned (see also Table
A.3).

5.4.4 Edge welds on flanged butt and flanged corner joints

D

See 5.10.

5.4.5 Flare bevel and flare V butt welds

Examples of how to dimension flare bevel and flare V butt welds are given in Table 6, No 1.6 and 1.7.

© ISO 2010 – All rights reserved 21

ISO/DIS 2553

5.5 Fillet welds

5.5.1 Weld size

The symbol, a, nominal throat thickness, or z, leg length, shall be placed in front of the dimension to the left of the

1
weld symbol (see Table 6, No. 2.1).

Nominal throat thickness, a, is calculated as the height of the largest isosceles triangle that can be inscribed in the
section of the required weld measured from the joint root.

T 1
For fillet welds with unequal leg lengths the symbols z1 and z2 are used where:

 z1, = leg length measured on the contiguous member of the joint

EN2 0
 z2, = leg length measured on the non-contiguous (cross) member of the joint

The required leg lengths shall be clearly indicated on the drawing or on a separate sketch or WPS (see also Table 6,
No. 2.3).

For fillet welds made on both sides of a joint, the dimensions of both welds shall be specified even if they are

M I
identical (symmetrical). UT N
5.5.2 Deep penetration fillet welds
KF D
For deep penetration fillet welds, the symbol, s, shall be placed in front of the required penetration. This shall be
placed in front of the nominal throat thickness symbol, a, and its dimension as shown in Table 6, No. 2.2.

Alternatively, for thicker material, a combined square butt and fillet weld symbol may be used when two separate
A

welds are being produced.

NOTE 1 's' is measured at the intersection of the weld and the non-contiguous member of the joint.
R

NOTE 2 Deep penetration fillet welds can be verified by ultrasonic testing of the weld root and/or macrosections.

5.6 Plug welds

The diameter symbol, Ø, shall be placed in front of the required plug weld diameter, at the faying surface, and to
the left of the plug weld symbol (see Table 6, No. 3).
AO

If plug welds are to be partially filled, the depth of filling shall be indicated inside the weld symbol. In the absence of
a depth dimension, the plug shall be completely filled (see Table 6, No. 3.1 and No. 3.2).
RD

Intermittent welds shall be designated with the number, length and spacing of welds to the right of the weld symbol
(see Table 6, No. 3.3).

5.7 Slot welds

The required weld width, c, at the faying surface, shall be placed to the left of the slot weld symbol (see Table 6, No.
4).

If slot welds are to be partially filled, the depth of filling shall be indicated inside the weld symbol (see Table 6, No.
D

4.2). In the absence of a depth dimension, the slot shall be completely filled.

Intermittent welds shall be designated with the number, length and spacing of welds to the right of the weld symbol
(see Table 6, No. 4.3).

NOTE The slot weld symbol is not used to designate fillet welds in slots.

22 © ISO 2010 – All rights reserved

 ISO/DIS 2553

5.8 Spot welds

The required spot weld diameter, d, shall be placed to the left of the spot weld symbol (see Table 6, No. 5).

Welds in series shall be designated with the number, and spacing of welds to the right of the weld symbol (see

1
Table 6, No. 5.1 and No. 5.2).

5.9 Seam welds

T 1
The required weld width, c, at the faying surface, shall be placed to the left of the slot weld symbol (see Table 6, No.
6).

Intermittent welds shall be designated with the number, length and spacing of welds to the right of the weld symbol
(see Table 6, No. 6.1).

EN2 0
5.10 Edge welds

The required weld metal thickness of the edge weld shall be placed to the left of the edge weld symbol (see Table 6,
No. 7). If flanged edge welds are to be full penetration, the melt through symbol shall be used (see 4.4.6.2 and
Table 4).

5.11 Stud welds

M I
UT N
The required stud diameter, d, shall be placed to the left of the stud weld symbol (see Table 6, No. 8).
KF D
5.12 Surfacing welds

The required weld thickness shall be placed to the left of the surfacing weld symbol (see Table 6, No. 9).
A
AO R
RD
D

© ISO 2010 – All rights reserved 23

ISO/DIS 2553

No.

1
Weld
type
BUTT
Illustration
Table 5 — Weld dimensions

Symbol a, b

1 1Comments

T
2
Full

M I
1.1
penetration

U N
EN
K D
s = Penetration depth, the minimum

T
distance from the surface of the part to the
bottom of the penetration (cannot be greater
than the thickness of the thinner part in a

O A joint).

F
R
NOTE 1 No dimension to the left of the weld
symbol indicates butt welds shall be full
penetration.

A
Partial NOTE 2 No dimension to the right of the weld
1.2 symbol indicates butt welds shall be continuous.
Penetration

R
D

24
D © ISO 2010 – All rights reserved
 ISO/DIS 2553

No. Weld
type
Illustration
Table 5 (continued)

Symbol a

1 1 Comments

T
2
1.3 Intermittent

M I
U N
EN
K D T l = length of weld (without end craters)

O A (e) = distance between weld elements

F
Chain n = number of weld elements
1.4 NOTE No dimension to the left of the weld
intermittent
R
symbol indicates the welds shall be full
penetration.

A
1.5
Staggered
intermittent

R
D

D
© ISO 2010 – All rights reserved 25
ISO/DIS 2553

No. Weld
type
Illustration
Table 5 (continued)

Symbol a

1 1 Comments

T
2
M I
U N
EN
s = weld metal thickness, the minimum
distance from the surface of the part to the

K D
1.6 Flare-V bottom of the penetration.

T
h = distance from point of tangency to top of
member

O A
F
R
A
R
D

26
D © ISO 2010 – All rights reserved
 ISO/DIS 2553

No. Weld
type
Illustration
Table 5 (continued)

Symbol a

1 1 Comments

T
2
M I
U N
EN
K D T s = weld metal, the minimum distance from

O A the surface of the part to the bottom of the

penetration.

F
1.7 Flare bevel
h = distance from point of tangency to top of
R
member

A
R
D

D
© ISO 2010 – All rights reserved 27
ISO/DIS 2553

No.

2
Weld
type
FILLET
Illustration
Table 5 (continued)

Symbol a

1 1Comments

T
2
a, nominal throat thickness = height of the

M I
largest isosceles triangle that can be

U N
2.1 Fillet inscribed in the section

EN
z, leg length = side of the largest isosceles
triangle that can be inscribed in the section

K D T
O A
F
R
A
2.2
Deep s, weld metal thickness of the deep
penetration penetration fillet weld

R
D

28
D © ISO 2010 – All rights reserved
 ISO/DIS 2553

No. Weld
type
Illustration
Table 5 (continued)

Symbol a

1 1 Comments

0 z1 ≠ z2 the required leg lengths

T
2
Unequal shall be clearly indicated on the

M I
2.3
legs drawing or on a separate sketch or

U N
WPS

EN
K D T
O A l = length of weld (without end

F
craters)
R
2.4 Intermittent (e) = distance between weld
elements

A
n = number of weld elements

R
D

D
© ISO 2010 – All rights reserved 29
ISO/DIS 2553

No. Weld
type
Illustration
Table 5 (continued)

Symbol a

1 1 Comments

T
2
M I
Chain
2.5

U N
intermittent

EN
K D T
O A
F
R
A
Staggered
2.6
intermittent

R
D

30
D © ISO 2010 – All rights reserved
 ISO/DIS 2553

No.

3 PLUG
Weld
type
Illustration
Table 5 (continued)

Symbol a

1 1 Comments

22 0

T
M I
Complete
3.1
fill

U N
EN
K D T
Ø, required diameter of the plug at
the faying surface
3.2 Partial fill
O A s, depth of filling, used if the hole

F
is to be partially filled
R
(e) = distance between weld
elements (centre to centre)
n = number of weld elements

3.3 Intermittent
A
R
D

D
© ISO 2010 – All rights reserved 31
ISO/DIS 2553

No. Weld
type
Illustration
Table 5 (continued)

Symbol a

1 1 Comments

T
2
M I
3.3 Intermittent

U N
EN
K D T
4 SLOT

O A
F
R
Complete
4.1
fill

A c, required width of the slot at the

faying surface
s, depth of filling, used if the slot is

R
to be partially filled
D

4.2 Partial fill

32
D © ISO 2010 – All rights reserved
 ISO/DIS 2553

No. Weld
type
Illustration
Table 5 (continued)

Symbol a

1 1 Comments

0 c, required width of the slot at the

faying surface

T
2
M I
l = length of weld (without end
craters)

U N
4.3 Intermittent

EN
(e) = distance between weld
elements

K D
n = number of weld elements

O A
R
F T
A
R
D

D
© ISO 2010 – All rights reserved 33
ISO/DIS 2553

No.

5
Weld
type

SPOT
Illustration
Table 5 (continued)

Symbol a

1 1 Comments

T
2
M I
U N
EN
K D
d, required spot weld diameter at

T
the faying surface
5.1 Resistance

O A (e) = distance between weld

elements (centre to centre)

F
n = number of weld elements
R
A
R
D

34
D © ISO 2010 – All rights reserved
 ISO/DIS 2553

No. Weld
type
Illustration
Table 5 (continued)

Symbol a

1 1 Comments

T
2
M I
U N
EN
K D T d, required spot weld diameter at

5.2 Fusion
O A the faying surface
(e) = distance between weld

F
elements (centre to centre)
R
n = number of weld elements

A
R
D

D
© ISO 2010 – All rights reserved 35
ISO/DIS 2553

No.

6
Weld
type
SEAM
Illustration
Table 5 (continued)

Symbol a

1 1 Comments

T
2
M I
U N
EN
K D T c, required seam weld width at

O A the faying surface

F
l = length of weld (without end
6.1 Resistance craters)
R
(e) = distance between weld
elements

A
n = number of weld elements

R
D

36
D © ISO 2010 – All rights reserved
 ISO/DIS 2553

No. Weld
type
Illustration
Table 5 (continued)

Symbol a

1 1 Comments

T
2
M I
U N
EN
K D T c, required seam weld width
6.2 Fusion

O A at the faying surface

F
R
A
R
D

D
© ISO 2010 – All rights reserved 37
ISO/DIS 2553

No.

7
Weld
type
EDGE
Illustration
Table 5 (continued)

Symbol a

1 1 Comments

T
2
7.1 Lap

M I
U N
EN
K D T
s = weld metal thickness the
Flanged minimum distance from the
7.2
butt d

O A external surface of the weld to

the bottom of the penetration

F
R
A
Flanged
7.3
corner d

R
D

38
D © ISO 2010 – All rights reserved
 ISO/DIS 2553

No.

8 STUD
Weld
type
Illustration
Table 5 (continued)

Symbol a

1 1 Comments

T
2
M I
U N
EN
K D
d, stud size

T
8.1 Series
(e) = distance between weld
elements (centre to centre)

O A n = number of weld elements

F
R
A
R
D

D
© ISO 2010 – All rights reserved 39
ISO/DIS 2553

No.

9
Weld
type
SURFACING
Illustration
Table 5 (continued)

Symbol a

1 1 Comments

T
2
M I
U N
EN
K D T
9.1 t = thickness of surfacing weld

O A
F
R
A
R
a The gray line is not part of the symbol. It indicates the position of the reference line.
b The letters a, z and s (deep penetration fillet welds) are to be included with the relevant dimension to show which component of the fillet weld is being dimensioned. Otherwise, letters (e.g. n, l and (e)) are shown for illustrative
purposes only and are not to be included on the drawing.
c
D

Shown as a continuous weld for illustrative purposes only. Can also be designated as an intermittent weld.

D
d For full penetration welds, the melt through symbol shall be used (see Tables 8 and 9).

40 © ISO 2010 – All rights reserved

 ISO/DIS 2553

6 Joint dimensions and geometry prior to welding

6.1 General

1
Basic information concerning the joint dimensions and geometry prior to welding can be included as part of the
welding symbol or can be specified elsewhere for example by reference to the relevant part of ISO 9692 or on the
WPS.

NOTE Information on joint dimensions should not overburden drawings. References to standards, welding procedure

T 1
specifications (WPS's) or other drawings or instructions should be considered that eliminate the need to include this information
as part of the symbol.

6.2 Root opening

EN2 0
The root opening, b, of a butt joint can be specified inside the weld symbol (see Table 7).

The root opening shall only be shown on one side of the reference line.

Table 6 — Examples of designating root opening

No Weld type Illustration Symbol

M I
UT N
Square
KF D
1
butt
A
R

2 V butt
AO
RD

Double
3
bevel butt
D

© ISO 2010 – All rights reserved 41

ISO/DIS 2553

6.3 Included angle

The included angle (groove angle, USA), α, of a butt joint can be specified outside the weld symbol (see Table 8).

1
For double sided joints, including symmetrical joints, the preparation angle(s) shall be included on both sides of the
welding symbol.

Table 7 — Examples of designating included angle

No Weld type Illustration Symbol

T 1
1 V butt

EN2 0
M I
2 J butt
UT N
KF DA
R

Double bevel
3 butt
(symmetrical)
AO
RD

Double V butt
4
(asymmetrical)
D

42 © ISO 2010 – All rights reserved

 ISO/DIS 2553

6.4 Radii and root faces - U and J butt joints

The radii and dimensions of root faces of U and J butt joints cannot be specified as part of welding symbols and
shall be specified elsewhere, in a cross section, detail, or other data e.g. the relevant part of ISO 9692 referenced in
the tail of the welding symbol.

1
6.5 Depth of joint preparation

The depth of joint preparation, h, of V -, single bevel -, U -, and J - butt welds can be specified to the left of the weld

T 1
symbol. The letter h shall precede the weld dimension to clarify this is not relate to the weld size e.g. s8h6 (see
Table 9).

NOTE The depth of joint preparation in butt welds can be greater than, equal to, or smaller than the size of the finished weld.

EN2 0
Table 8 — Examples of joint preparation depth designation
N Weld Illustration Comment Symbol
o type s

M I
UT N s>h

1 V butt
KF D
s<h
A
R

Doubl
2 eV s>h
AO

butt
RD

6.6 Countersink angle for plug and slot welds

The included angle of countersink of plug and slot welds can be indicated by placing the required dimension above
D

the weld symbol (see Table 10).

© ISO 2010 – All rights reserved 43

ISO/DIS 2553

Table 9 — Countersink angle in plug and slot welds

No Weld Symbol a Illustration

type

1
1 Plug

T 1
2 Slot

EN2 0
Ø symbol before weld dimension identifies as plug weld, diameter measured at the faying surface (see 5.6).

M I
UT N
KF DA
AO R
RD
D

44 © ISO 2010 – All rights reserved

 ISO/DIS 2553

7 Method of symbolic representation of essential design information

7.1 General

1
This designation method can be used to represent welded butt joints on drawings by specifying the required quality
level and other basic information e.g. dimensions. The joint preparation and welding process(es) are determined by
the production unit in order to meet the specified requirements.

The advantages of using this method are that the specified weld becomes independent of:

T 1
 welding method;

 joint preparation;

EN2 0
 welding equipment;

 location of production;

 the production knowledge by design engineer.

M I
The benefits can be found within administration, economy and technology e.g.


UT N
Revision of drawings – No need to update drawings when changes in the process occurs;

 Design engineers specify the quality of the end product and the production specialists decide how to achieve
KF D
this;

 All sub-contractors can use the same drawing independent of in-house equipment;
A

 Increased selection of sub-suppliers due to no unnecessary process specifications;


R

Facilitates changes and selection between available production equipment for an optimal economical usage.

 Demands focus on the actual need so that right quality is achieved.

Figures 7 and 8 demonstrate the potential advantages of this designation method. Figure 7 outlines the stages
where the designer prepares a drawing and specifies the welding process based on the equipment available in the
workshop where the welds will be produced. The designer may also specify joint preparation. The WPS will be
developed based on all the information provided. If the same components are to be welded in another workshop
AO

(even in another country) the equipment available may be different and to obtain the same result a different joint
preparation and WPS may be required and thus, the drawing has to be revised.

Figure 8 outlines the stages where the designer only specifies required weld quality and other basic information e.g.
RD

dimensions. The welding method, joint preparation etc. can be specified on the WPS based on the available
equipment which can be revised when components are welded in other workshops with different equipment.
Consequently, the drawing does not need to be revised for each workshop.
D

© ISO 2010 – All rights reserved 45

ISO
O/DIS 2553

T 1
1
EN2 0
M I
UT N
KF DA
AO R
RD
D

Figure 7 — Flo
owchart - De
esigner spec
cifies joint prreparation an
nd welding process
p

46 © IS
SO 2010 – All righ
hts reserved
 ISO/DIS 2553

T 1
1
EN2 0
M I
UT N
KF DA
AO R
RD
D

Figurre 8 — Flowc
chart - Designer specifies
s weld qualitty

© ISO 2010
0 – All rights rese
erved 47
ISO/DIS 2553

7.2 Symbols and information to be provided

The shape of the butt joint and the welding process used are determined by the production unit and are not
specified on the drawing by the design engineer. The symbol for fusion weld in Table 11 shall then be used on the
drawing.

1
When using the symbol in accordance with this requirement controlled method, the welding method is never stated.
The method used to obtain the required quality level is determined by the production unit.

T 1
The design engineer shall specify the required quality level only and basic information concerning the weld is
provided. Dimensioning of welds is specified by the design engineers.

Table 10 — Simplified basic butt weld symbol

Weld type Symbol Description

EN2 0
Welding process in which the parts of
the work piece are heated locally until
Fusion weld melting and are fused together with
or without filler material and without
pressure.

M I
7.3 Examples
UT N
KF D
An example of a quality level requirement controlled weld designation is shown in Figure 9.

The letter “s” for penetration depth for butt welds shall always be included with the cross-sectional dimension. Full
penetration welds shall not be dimensioned.
A
AO R

Figure 9 — Example of a butt weld based on required weld quality

RD

An example of a comprehensive welding symbol based on required weld quality is shown in Figure 10.
D

48 © ISO 2010 – All rights reserved

 ISO/DIS 2553

T 1
1
Key
1 Weld symbol (fusion weld)
2 Supplementary symbol (concave contour)

EN2 0
3 Complementary information (reference and weld quality)
4 Dimensions (weld size, number and spacing)

Figure 10 — Example of a comprehensive welding symbol based on required weld quality

M I
UT N
KF DA
AO R
RD
D

© ISO 2010 – All rights reserved 49

ISO/DIS 2553

Annex A
(informative)

Examples of the use of welding symbols

1
A.1General

T 1
The examples given in this Annex, are illustrative only and are intended to demonstrate the proper application of
drawing principles. They are not intended to represent good design practices, or to replace code or specification
requirements.

EN2 0
Figure A.1 shows examples of comprehensive welding symbols showing the location of elements.

The welding symbols shown in Figure A.1 designate the same weld:

 5 mm nominal throat thickness intermittent fillet welds with concave profile;

M I
 welded on the arrow side of the joint;
UT N
 4 intermittent welds 100 mm in length with 200mm spacing between welds;

 site welds;
KF D
welded using shielded metal arc welding (SMAW), process 111 in accordance with ISO 4063.
A

A.2Reference line – System A

Although the dashed line can be drawn above or below the continuous line (see 4.6.1A) the examples given in
R

Tables A.1 to A.4 only show the preferred case where the dashed line is drawn below.
AO
RD
D

50 © ISO 2010 – All rights reserved

 ISO/DIS 2553

1 1
0

T
2
M I
U N
EN
K D
Figure A.1a — Example of a comprehensive welding symbol in Figure A.1b — Example of comprehensive welding symbol in
accordance with system A accordance with system B

O A
R Key
1
2
3
4
5

F T Elementary symbol (fillet weld)

Supplementary symbol (concave contour, site weld, weld all-around)
Complementary information (reference)
Dimensions (fillet weld size, number, length and spacing of intermittent welds)
Tail

A
6a Reference line (continuous)
6b Dashed line (identification line) – System A only

Figure A.1 — Examples of comprehensive welding symbols

R
D

D © ISO 2010 – All rights reserved 51

ISO/DIS 2553

No. System A
Welding Symbol
Table A.1 — Examples of use of broken arrow lines
Illustration of
Weld

1 1
System B
Welding Symbol

T
2
1

M I
U N
EN
K D T
O A
F
2
R
A
R
3
D

D 52 © ISO 2010 – All rights reserved

 ISO/DIS 2553

No. Weld
type
Side
Table A.2 — Examples of arrow side and other side welds
System A
Welding Symbol a
Illustration of
Weld

1 1
System B
Welding Symbol

T
2
M I
1a) Arrow

U N
EN
K D
Fillet

1b) Other O A
R
F T
A
R
D

D
© ISO 2010 – All rights reserved 53
ISO/DIS 2553

No. Weld
type
Side System A
Welding Symbol a
Table A.3 (continued)
Illustration of
Weld
1
System B

1
Welding Symbol

T
2
M I
2a) Arrow

U N
EN
K D
Butt;
groove

T
/USA

O A
F
2b) Other
R
A
R
D

D 54 © ISO 2010 – All rights reserved

 ISO/DIS 2553

No. Weld
type
Side System A
Welding Symbol a
Table A.2 (continued)

Illustration of
Weld

1 1
System B
Welding Symbol

T
2
M I
3a) Arrow

U N
EN
K D
Fusion
spot

3b) Other
O A
R
F T
A
R
D

D
© ISO 2010 – All rights reserved 55
 ISO/DIS 2553

No. Weld
type
Side System A
Welding Symbol a
Table A.2 (continued)

Illustration of
Weld

1 1System B
Welding Symbol

T
2
M I
U N
EN
4a) Arrow

K D T
Plug
b

O A
F
R
4b) Other

A
R
D

D
56 © ISO 2010 – All rights reserved
 ISO/DIS 2553

No. Weld
type
Side System A
Welding Symbol a
Table A.2 (continued)

Illustration of
Weld

1 1
System B
Welding Symbol

0
-

T
2
M I
U N
Slot

EN
5a) b, c
Arrow

K D T
O A
F
R
5b) Slot
b, c
Other

A
R
D

D
© ISO 2010 – All rights reserved 57
ISO/DIS 2553

No. Weld
type
Side System A
Welding Symbol a
Table A.2 (continued)

Illustration of
Weld

1 1
System B
Welding Symbol

T
2
M I
U N
EN
Fusion
6a) Arrow
seam

K D T
O A
F
R
6b)
Fusion
Other
A
R
seam
D

D 58 © ISO 2010 – All rights reserved

 ISO/DIS 2553

No. Weld
type
Side System A
Welding Symbol
Table A.2 (continued)

Illustration of
Weld

1 1
System B
Welding Symbol

T
2
No side significance with resistance welds at the interface.

M I
Resistance

U N
7

EN
spot

K D T
O A
F
R
8
Resistance
seam

A
R
D

D
© ISO 2010 – All rights reserved 59
ISO/DIS 2553

Weld
type
Side System A
Welding Symbol
Table A.2 (continued)

Illustration of
Weld

1 1
System B
Welding Symbol

0
Arrow points to the sheet containing the projection

T
2
M I
U N
EN
K D T
9. Projection

O A
F
R
A
a

b
The dashed line is preferred to be drawn below the continuous line.

R
Plug welds require the diameter of the hole to be indicated by use of the Ø symbol.
D

D
c Orientation of the slot is to be shown on the drawing or indicated elsewhere.

60 © ISO 2010 – All rights reserved

 ISO/DIS 2553

No. Weld
type
System A
Welding Symbol a
Table A.4 — Examples of welding symbols for asymmetrical welds
Illustration of
Weld
1
System B

1
Welding Symbol

T
2
M I
U N
EN
1 Butt

K D T
O A
F
R
A
2 Fillet b

R
a Asymmetrical welds are always dimensioned regardless if they are partial or full penetration welds (see Clause 6).
b If asymmetrical leg lengths are specified, the symbol z is used in place of a.
D

D © ISO 2010 – All rights reserved 61

ISO/DIS 2553

Annex B
(informative)

Tolerances and transitions points for weld types

1
Table B.1 — Tolerances and transitions points for weld types

T 1
Joint type Weld type Transition/tolerance α Symbol

135º to

EN2 0
Table 1,
Butt Butt 180º
No. 1
inclusive

M I
UT N Over 30º
Table 1,
Corner Fillet and less
No. 11
than 135º
KF DA

0º to 30º Table 1,
Edge Edge
inclusive No. 20
R

45º to 90º Table 1,

Angle Butt
inclusive No. 4
AO
RD

Over 5º
Table 1,
Angle Fillet and less
No. 11
than 45º

0º to 5º Table 1,
Lap Fillet
inclusive No. 11
D

62 © ISO 2010 – All rights reserved

 ISO/DIS 2553

Annex C
(informative)

AWS A2.4 methods for designating intermittent welds

1
C.1General

T 1
The methods for designating intermittent butt and fillet welds are included for informational purposes only.
Information on how to designate other intermittent weld types can be found in AWS A2.4.

C.2Butt welds

EN2 0
C.2.1 Intermittent butt welds

The pitch of intermittent butt welds is defined as the distance between the centres of adjacent weld segments on
one side of the joint. The pitch of intermittent butt welds is specified to the right of the length dimension following a
hyphen (see Table C.1).

M I
UT N
C.2.2 Chain intermittent butt welds

The dimensions of chain intermittent butt welds are specified on both sides of the reference line. The segments of
KF D
chain intermittent butt welds are made approximately opposite one another across the joint (see Table C.1).

C.2.3 Staggered Intermittent butt Welds

A

Dimensions of staggered intermittent butt welds is specified on both sides of the reference line, and the butt weld
symbols is offset on opposite sides of the reference line as shown below. The segments of staggered intermittent
butt welds are symmetrically spaced on both sides of the joint (see Table C.1).
R

C.3Fillet welds

C.3.1 Intermittent fillet welds

The pitch of intermittent fillet welds is defined as the distance between the centres of adjacent weld segments on
one side of the joint. The pitch of intermittent fillet welds is specified to the right of the length dimension following a
AO

hyphen (see Table C.2).

C.3.2 Chain intermittent fillet welds

RD

The dimensions of chain intermittent fillet welds are specified on both sides of the reference line. The segments of
chain intermittent fillet welds are made approximately opposite one another across the joint (see Table C.2).

C.3.3 Staggered Intermittent fillet Welds

The dimensions of staggered intermittent fillet welds shall be specified on both sides of the reference line, and the
fillet weld symbols shall be offset on opposite sides of the reference line as shown below. The segments of
staggered intermittent fillet welds shall be symmetrically spaced on both sides of the joint (see Table C.2).
D

© ISO 2010 – All rights reserved 63

 ISO/DIS 2553

Table C.1 — Butt welds

No. Weld type Illustration of AWS A2.4
Weld Welding Symbol

1
6 6

T 1
Intermittent

3–6

EN2 0
3 3 3

3 3

M I
2–3
UT N
Intermittent

2–3
Chain

2
KF D
2 2 2
A

5 10
R

3–10
Intermittent
Staggered

3–10
3
AO

3 3 3 3
RD
D

64 © ISO 2010 – All rights reserved

 ISO/DIS 2553

Table C.2 — Fillet welds

No. Weld type Illustration of AWS A2.4
Weld Welding Symbol

1
4 4
2–4
Intermittent

T 1
1

EN2 0
2 2 2

4 4
2–4

M I
UT N 2–4
Intermittent
Chain

2
KF DA

2 2 2
R

5 10
3–10

3–10
Intermittent
Staggered

3
AO

3 3 3 3
RD
D

© ISO 2010 – All rights reserved 65

ISO/DIS 2553

Annex D
(informative)

Designation of welds of the same type made from point to point

1
This annex shows an alternative method to designate welds of the same type made from point to point when the

T 1
weld around symbol cannot be used. Otherwise, each weld is to be individually identified in accordance with this
International Standard.

NOTE Any identifier can be used to identify the points between welds e.g. A, B, C and X, Y, Z etc.

EN2 0
M I
UT N
KF DA
AO R
RD

Key
1 Welding symbol
2 Visual response (welded in accordance with the welding symbol)
A Starting position
B End position

NOTE There is no weld from point B to point A (fillet weld not possible)

Figure D.1 — Example of a welding symbol for a fillet weld made from point A to point B
D

66 © ISO 2010 – All rights reserved

 ISO/DIS 2553

Bibliography

1
[1] ISO 2553:1992, Welded, brazed and soldered joints - symbolic representation on drawings

[2] ISO 5817, Welding -- Fusion-welded joints in steel, nickel, titanium and their alloys (beam welding excluded)
-- Quality levels for imperfections

T 1
[3] ISO 10042, Welding -- Arc-welded joints in aluminium and its alloys -- Quality levels for imperfections

[4] ISO 13919, Welding -- Electron and laser-beam welded joints -- Guidance on quality levels for imperfections

[5] ISO 14171, Welding consumables -- Wire electrodes and wire-flux combinations for submerged arc welding

EN2 0
of non alloy and fine grain steels -- Classification

[6] ISO 14341, Welding consumables -- Wire electrodes and deposits for gas shielded metal arc welding of non
alloy and fine grain steels -- Classification

[7] ISO 6947, Welds -- Working positions -- Definitions of angles of slope and rotation

M I
[8]

[9]
UT N
ISO 9692 (all parts), Welding and allied processes -- Joint preparation

E. N. Gregory and A. A. Armstrong, Welding symbols on drawings, Abington, Cambridge: Woodhead

Publishing Limited. ISBN 1-85573-589-X
KF D
[10] AWS A2.4:2007, Standard Symbols for Welding, Brazing, and Nondestructive Examination
A
AO R
RD
D

© ISO 2010 – All rights reserved 67