AWS Resources

for Engineers

welding know-how for engineers

Symbols for
Joining and
Inspection

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Provided by IHS under license with AWS Licensee=Aramco HQ/9980755100
No reproduction or networking permitted without license from IHS Not for Resale, 01/07/2006 23:42:06 MST
 © 2001 by American Welding Society
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The Welding Handbook is the result of the collective effort of many volunteer technical specialists who provide
information to assist with the design and application of welding and allied processes.

The information and data presented in the Welding Handbook, and this chapter, are intended for informational
purposes only. Reasonable care is exercised in the compilation and publication of the Welding Handbook to ensure
the authenticity of the contents. However, no representation is made as to the accuracy, reliability, or completeness
of this information, and an independent, substantiating investigation of the information should be undertaken by
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The information contained in the Welding Handbook shall not be construed as a grant of any right of manufac-
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Printed in the United States of America

ii
 ACKNOWLEDGMENTS
This chapter from the Welding Handbook, Ninth Edition, Volumn 1, “Welding Science and Technology,” has been
selected by the AWS Product Development Committee as a service to industry professionals.

The Welding Handbook Committee and the editors recognize the contributions of the volunteers who have cre-
ated, developed, and documented the technology of welding and shared it in the past editions of the Welding
Handbook. The same enthusiasm, dedication, and willingness to share that they made a tradition continue with
this ninth edition of the Welding Handbook.

The Welding Handbook Committee and the editors extend appreciation to the AWS technical committees who
developed the current consensus standards that pertain to this volume. They are also grateful to L. P. Connor,
editor of Volume 1, eighth edition, and the members of the AWS technical staff for the engineering assistance they
generously contributed.

iii
 CONTRIBUTORS

WELDING HANDBOOK COMMITTEE

H. R. Castner, Chair Edison Welding Institute

B. J. Bastian, First Vice-Chair Benmar Associates
R. S. Funderburk The Lincoln Electric Company
J. M. Gerken, Sr. Consultant
I. D. Harris Edison Welding Institute
L. C. Heckendorn Intech R&D USA, Incorporated
J. H. Myers Weld Inspection & Consulting Services
A. O’Brien, Secretary American Welding Society
P. I. Temple Detroit Edison
C. L. Tsai The Ohio State University

WELDING HANDBOOK VOLUME 1 COMMITTEE

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J. M. Gerken, Chair Consultant
D. W. Dickinson The Ohio State University
T. D. Hesse Consultant
A. F. Manz Consultant
J. H. Myers Weld Inspection & Consulting Services
A. O’Brien, Secretary American Welding Society
C. E. Pepper RPM Engineering, a Petrocon Company
D. E. Williams Consultant

CHAPTER

CHAIRS

Chapter 1 W. H. Kielhorn LeTourneau University

Chapter 2 R. W. Richardson The Ohio State University
Chapter 3 T. DebRoy Pennsylvania State University
Chapter 4 V. W. Hartman Special Metals Corporation
Chapter 5 R. S. Funderburk The Lincoln Electric Company
Chapter 6 D. E. Williams Consultant
Chapter 7 K. Masubuchi Massachusetts Institute of Technology
Chapter 8 A. J. Kathrens Canadian Welding Bureau
Chapter 9 N. R. Helton Pandjiris, Incorporated
Chapter 10 R. B. Madigan Weldware, Incorporated
D. M. Barborak Weldware, Incorporated
Chapter 11 J. S. Noruk Tower Automotive, Incorporated
Chapter 12 D. L. Lynn Welding & Joining Management Group
Chapter 13 S. C. Chapple Midway Products Group
P. I. Temple Detroit Edison
Chapter 14 R. L. Holdren Edison Welding Institute
Chapter 15 W. R. Quinn Fluidics, Incorporated
Chapter 16 J. H. Myers Welding Inspection & Consulting Services
Chapter 17 D. G. Scott Consultant

iv
 REVIEWERS
AMERICAN WELDING SOCIETY
SAFETY AND HEALTH COMMITTEE
TECHNICAL ACTIVITIES COMMITTEE

N. C. Cole NCC Engineering

L. P. Connor American Welding Society
J. R. Crisci Consultant
S. R. Fiore Edison Welding Institute
J. R. Hannahs Edison Community College
J. F. Harris Ashland Chemical Company
R. L. Holdren Edison Welding Institute
D. J. Kotecki The Lincoln Electric Company
R. A. LaFave Elliott Company
D. J. Landon Vermeer Manufacturing Company
M. J. Lucas GE Aircraft Engines
D. L. McQuaid Philip Services Corporation, Industrial Metal Services
V. L. Mangold KOHOL Systems, Incorporated
D. E. Powers PTR Precision Technologies
T. P. Quinn National Institute of Standards and Technology
J. E. Roth James E. Roth, Incorporated
E. F. Rybicki University of Tulsa
A. W. Sindel Sindell & Associates
W. J. Sperko Sperko Engineering Services

TECHNICAL CONSULTANTS

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K. W. Beedon Elliott Company
W. A. Milek Consultant
T. Moorehead The Lincoln Electric Company
E. F. Nippes Consultant

AMERICAN WELDING SOCIETY TECHNICAL ADVISORS

H. H. Campbell S. P. Hedrick
L. P. Connor E. F. Mitchell
A. Davis C. B. Pollock
J. L. Gayler T. R. Potter
R. Gupta J. D. Weber

v
--`,,,,``,,,,,,````,,``,,,`,,`-`-`,,`,,`,`,,`---
CHAPTER 9
Prepared by the
Welding Handbook
Chapter Committee
on Symbols for

SYMBOLS FOR
Joining and
Inspection:

A. J. Kathrens, Chair
Canadian Welding Bureau

JOINING AND W. L. Green, Chair

(deceased)
The Ohio State University

INSPECTION C. K. Ford
Hobart Institute of Welding
Technology

R. D. McGuire
National Board of Boiler
& Pressure Vessel
Inspectors

Welding Handbook
Committee Member:

L. C. Heckendorn
Intech R&D, USA

Contents

Introduction 2

Fundamentals 3

Welding Symbols 3

Welding Symbols for

Specific Weld Types 15

Brazing Symbols 23

Soldering Symbols 24

Inspection Symbols 27

Conclusion 35

Bibliography 35

Supplementary
Reading List 35
2 SYMBOLS FOR JOINING AND INSPECTION
CHAPTER 9
SYMBOLS
FOR JOINING AND
INSPECTION
INTRODUCTION
Standard symbols are used universally to indicate
precise welding, brazing, and soldering information
on engineering drawings. Welding symbols communi-
cate a wealth of information. They specify in a con-
cise manner the design of a weld or welds to be
applied to a given joint. In addition, they prescribe
the welding process to be used, the size and length of
weld, the groove design, the face and root contours,
and the sequence of operations, among other infor-
mation. Symbols are also used to designate the non-
destructive examination (NDE) requirements for
welded or brazed joints. The examination methods to
be implemented are indicated in these symbols.1 In
many cases, not all required information can be con-
veyed by means of symbols. Thus, supplementary
notes or dimensional details, or both, are often
included on drawings to provide the fabricator com-
plete requirements.
This chapter discusses the fundamentals and applica-
tions of the symbols used in the welding industry. Weld-
ing and nondestructive examination symbols trace their
origins back to American Welding Society (AWS) com-
mittee work done in the 1940s. The latest information
on the complete system of joining and nondestructive
examination symbols is presented in Standard Symbols
for Welding, Brazing, and Nondestructive Examination,
1. Nondestructive examination methods, procedures, and the type
of discontinuities that each method reveal are discussed in American
Welding Society (AWS) Committee on Methods of Inspection,
Guide for the Nondestructive Examination of Welds, AWS B1.10,
Miami: American Welding Society. The selection of examination
methods depends upon the quality requirements specified for the
production.
ANSI/AWS A2.4.2,3 This publication is the definitive
reference for the appropriate symbols and conventions
used to convey information regarding welding, brazing,
and inspection requirements and should be consulted
for updates made since the publication of this chapter.
The reader should note that some of the figures pre-
sented to illustrate the concepts discussed in this chap-
ter include dimensions. For purposes of graphical
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simplicity, these dimensions are presented in U.S. cus-
tomary units only unless otherwise indicated.
Many of the welding terms included in this chapter
are defined in Standard Welding Terms and Definitions,
AWS A3.0:2001.4 The reader is advised to become
familiar with the terms and definitions applicable to
symbols.
2. American Welding Society (AWS) Committee on Definitions and
Symbols, Standard Symbols for Welding, Brazing, and Nondestructive
Examination, ANSI/AWS A2.4, Miami: American Welding Society.
3. At the time of the preparation of this chapter, the referenced codes
and other standards were valid. If a code or other standard is cited
without a date of publication, it is understood that the latest edition
of the document referred to applies. If a code or other standard is
cited with the date of publication, the citation refers to that edition
only, and it is understood that any future revisions or amendments to
the code or standard are not included; however, as codes and stan-
dards undergo frequent revision, the reader is encouraged to consult
the most recent edition.
4. American Welding Society (AWS) Committee on Definitions,
2001, Standard Welding Terms and Definitions, AWS A3.0:2001,
Miami: American Welding Society.

FUNDAMENTALS
As symbols are used to specify joining and inspection
information, this section begins with a description of
the desired product, the welded joint. A joint is a junc-
tion of the members or the edges of the members that
are to be joined or have been joined. The five basic
joints used in welding and brazing design are the butt,
corner, T-, lap, and edge joints. Schematic illustrations
of these joints are presented in Figure 1.
Once the desired joints have been designed, welding
symbols are typically used on the engineering drawing
to specify the required welding information and details.
When the details of the weld cannot be adequately com-
municated by means of welding symbols, additional
information is specified in a notation on the drawing.
Symbols may be drawn by any method—electronic,
mechanical, or freehand. They must be clear and legible
regardless of the method used.
While the use of metric units is growing, U.S. cus-
tomary units can still be used in welding and examina-
tion symbols. However, dual units (i.e., both U.S.
customary and SI units) must not be used. If desired, a
table of conversions may be included on the drawing.
Suggested size dimensions for welding symbol elements
are provided in Standard Symbols for Welding, Brazing,
and Nondestructive Examination, ANSI/AWS A2.4.5
With respect to terminology, it is important to note that
the terms weld symbol and welding symbol have different
meanings. The weld symbol specifies the type of weld that
is prescribed for the application. The weld symbol is part
of the welding symbol. Groove weld symbols are similar
in shape to the cross section of the desired groove. Other
symbols, such as those used for stud and seam welds, are
similar in shape to the characteristics of these welds
viewed from other orientations. Figure 2 presents the weld
symbols used for various common welds.
WELDING SYMBOLS
Welding symbols are used to communicate require-
ments for the desired welding. They typically include
the weld symbol and specify the weld location, type,
size, and length.
The basic welding symbol is comprised of the refer-
ence line, about which the weld symbol and dimensions
are located, and an arrow, designating the location for
the weld. As shown in Figure 3, a tail may be included
in the symbol to provide an area to communicate infor-
mation about the welding specification, the welding
process, or other reference data.
5. See Reference 2.
SYMBOLS FOR JOINING AND INSPECTION 3
A complete welding symbol consists of the following
elements:
1. Reference line (required);
2. Arrow (required);
3. Tail;
4. Basic weld symbol;
5. Dimensions and other data;
6. Finish symbols;
7. Specification, process, or other references; and
8. Supplementary symbols.
The elements of the welding symbol have a standard
location with respect to one another. The location of the
elements in the welding symbol is illustrated in Figure 4.
Apart from the reference line and arrow, which are
required, only those elements that provide the required
clarity need be specified. The required and optional ele-
ments of the welding symbol are described in detail below.
Reference Line
The reference line is the basic and required welding
symbol element about which the weld information is
located. The reference line is oriented horizontally.
Multiple Reference Lines. As shown in Figure 5,
two or more reference lines may be used with a single
arrow to indicate a sequence of operations. The refer-
ence line nearest the tip of the arrow specifies the first
operation. The second or more reference lines represent
the subsequent operations. Subsequent operations are
shown sequentially on other reference lines leading
away from the tip of the arrow.
Reference lines are also used to specify data to sup-
plement the welding symbol and to indicate inspection
requirements. Figure 6 illustrates the application of
multiple reference lines to give clear guidance on the
procedures (e.g., gouging to sound metal for the weld
from the second side).
Arrow
The significance of the arrow is illustrated in Figure
7. Used in conjunction with the reference line, the
arrow establishes the locations of the arrow side and
the other side of a joint, as shown in Figure 7(A). The
arrow clearly points to the location on the drawing that
identifies the intended joint to which the welding
instructions apply. The arrow side of the reference line
is always closest to the reader when the drawing is
viewed from the bottom and the reference line is drawn,
as preferred, in a horizontal plane. Likewise, the other
side of the line provides instructions for the side of the
joint furthest from the arrow.
4 SYMBOLS FOR JOINING AND INSPECTION
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Source: American Welding Society (AWS) Committee on Definitions and Symbols, 1998, Standard Symbols for Welding, Brazing, and Nondestructive
Examination, ANSI/AWS A2.4-98, Miami: American Welding Society, Figure 4.

Figure 1—Basic Joints

 SYMBOLS FOR JOINING AND INSPECTION 5

Note: The reference line is depicted as a dashed line for illustrative purposes.

Source: Adapted from American Welding Society (AWS) Committee on Definitions and Symbols, 1998, Standard Symbols for Welding, Brazing, and Nondestructive Examination,
ANSI/AWS A2.4-98, Miami: American Welding Society, Figure 1.

Figure 2—Weld Symbols

Figure 7(A) offers examples of the use of the terms

“arrow side” and “other side” for three common
joint geometries. The weld symbol specifying an
arrow-side weld is always placed on the lower side of
the reference line, as shown in Figure 7(B). On the
other hand, the weld symbol depicting an other-side
weld is placed on the upper side of the reference line,
that is, away from the reader when viewed from the
bottom, as shown in Figure 7(C). Welds on both sides
of a joint are prescribed by placing weld symbols on
both sides of the reference line, as depicted in Figure
Figure 3—Standard Welding Symbol 7(D).
6 SYMBOLS FOR JOINING AND INSPECTION

Source: Adapted from American Welding Society (AWS) Committee on Definitions and Symbols, 1998, Standard Symbols for Welding, Brazing, and Nondestructive Examination,
ANSI/AWS A2.4-98, Miami: American Welding Society, Figure 2.

Figure 4—Standard Location of the Elements of the Welding Symbol

Source: Adapted from American Welding Society (AWS) Committee on Definitions and Symbols, 1998, Standard Symbols for Welding, Brazing, and Nondestructive Examination,
ANSI/AWS A2.4-98, Miami: American Welding Society, p. 6.

Figure 5—Multiple Reference Lines


Figure 6—Application of Multiple Reference Lines
Some weld symbols have no arrow-side or other-side
significance. However, supplementary symbols (see
below) used in conjunction with these weld symbols can
convey such significance. For example, weld symbols
for resistance spot and seam welding have no side sig-
nificance, as can be observed in Figure 7(E). However,
gas tungsten arc welding (GTAW), electron beam weld-
ing (EBW), or other spot and seam welds may have
arrow- and other-side significance.
Tail
When a specification, process, test, or other reference
is needed to convey additional requirements of the joint
to be manufactured, this information is placed in a tail
of the symbol, as shown in Figure 7(F). The illustrations
on the left and in the center indicate specifications,
codes, or other referenced documents. In the illustration
on the right, the letter designation “CJP” is used in the
tail of the welding symbol to specify that a complete
joint penetration groove weld is required, regardless of
the joint geometry. As previously explained, the tail
may be omitted when no specification, process, or other
reference is included in the welding symbol.
SYMBOLS FOR JOINING AND INSPECTION 7
Supplementary Data. The tails of any additional
reference lines used in the welding symbol convey data
that is supplementary to the basic information pre-
sented in the welding symbol. Examples of supplemen-
tary information include the process, process variation,
method of application, and welding procedure number.
Figure 8 illustrates the communication of supplemen-
tary data in additional reference lines.
Basic Weld Symbol
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Sixteen basic weld symbols are used. These are shown
in Figure 2.
Dimensions and Other Data
The dimensions of a weld are shown on the same
side of the reference line as the basic weld symbol. The
size of the weld is shown to the left of the weld symbol,
and the length of the weld is shown on the right. If a
length is not given, the weld symbol applies to that por-
tion of the joint between abrupt changes in the direc-
tion of welding or between specified dimension lines. If
a weld symbol is shown on each side of the reference
8 SYMBOLS FOR JOINING AND INSPECTION
Figure 7—Significance of the Arrow in the Welding Symbol
line, the dimensions, if used, must be given for each
weld even though both welds are identical.
Either the U.S. customary system of measurement or
the International System of Units (SI) may be used when
specifying dimensions. However, as noted above, only
one system should be used for a project or product.
Examples of symbols indicating the dimensions of
typical fillet welds are shown in Figure 9. In Figure
9(A), a 5/16 in. fillet weld is specified for the arrow side
of the T-joint. In Figure 9(B), 1/2 in. fillet welds are
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specified for the arrow side and the other side of the T-
joint. In Figure 9(C), a 3/8 in. fillet weld and a 1/4 in.
fillet weld are specified for the arrow side and the other
side of a T-joint, respectively. In Figure 9(D), a fillet
weld having one 1/4 in. leg and one 1/2 in. leg is speci-
fied for the arrow side of the T-joint. The dimensions
“1/4 × 1/2” noted adjacent to the fillet weld symbol do
not specify leg orientation, so the drawing and a refer-
ence in the tail are used to clarify the requirements. In
Figure 9(E), a continuous fillet weld is required on the

Source: Adapted from American Welding Society (AWS) Committee on Definitions and
Symbols, 1998, Standard Symbols for Welding, Brazing, and Nondestructive Examination,
ANSI/AWS A2.4-98, Miami: American Welding Society, p. 6.
Figure 8—Communication of Supplementary
Data in Additional Reference Lines
arrow side of the joint since no weld length is specified
numerically to the right of the fillet weld symbol. The
size of the fillet weld is not specified. In Figure 9(F), a
fillet weld 12 in. in length is specified on the arrow side
of the joint. The specific location of the 12 in. long weld
is shown by the notation “3 in.” on the drawing. The
size of the fillet weld is not specified.
If a weld in a joint is to be intermittent, the length of
the segments and the pitch (i.e., the center-to-center
spacing) are placed to the right of the weld symbol, as
can be observed in Figure 10.
Finishing Symbols
Finishing symbols can be used to specify a mechani-
cal method of achieving the required weld control. They
are used in conjunction with contour symbols (see
“Supplementary Symbols”). Figure 11 presents the fin-
ishing symbols and their meaning.
Specification, Process, and Other
References
Welding symbols also offer a means of conveying
other more detailed welding requirements or instruc-
tions. Most often, this information is included in the
tail of the welding symbol.
Any applicable job specification number or code ref-
erence may be incorporated into the tail of a welding
SYMBOLS FOR JOINING AND INSPECTION 9
symbol. In addition, consumable insert class and back-
ing or spacer material specification and dimensions may
be shown. The publication Standard Symbols for Weld-
ing, Brazing, and Nondestructive Examination, ANSI/
AWS 2.4,6 should be consulted for additional applica-
tions of specifications to welding symbols.
Letter designations are used in the tail of a welding
symbol to communicate the intended welding or braz-
ing process. The more frequently used welding process
designations are listed in Table 1. A complete listing of
designations for welding, brazing, and allied processes
is given in Standard Symbols for Welding, Brazing, and
Nondestructive Examination, ANSI/AWS A2.4.7
Many possible references can be included in the tail
of a welding symbol. These include the “TYP” notation
for typical welds, a reference to a “back weld” or “back-
ing weld” to clarify the intended sequence of welding,
backgouge and CJP references, tolerances for weld size,
and references to detail or cross-sectional drawings. The
publication Standard Symbols for Welding Brazing, and
Nondestructive Examination, ANSI/AWS 2.4,8 should
be consulted for additional uses of references.
SUPPLEMENTARY SYMBOLS
Supplementary weld symbols complement the basic
symbols and provide additional requirements or
instructions. Figure 12 presents the supplementary sym-
bols that may be used on a welding symbol. Each of
these is explained below.
Weld-All-Around Symbol. A weld that extends com-
pletely around a series of connected joints is indicated
by the weld-all-around symbol. This symbol takes the
form of a circle positioned at the junction of the arrow
and the reference line. Figures 13 illustrates the use of
this symbol. In Figure 13(A), the weld-all-around
symbol indicates that the weld should extend around
the entire periphery of the junction between the struc-
tural shape and the plate in a typical column-to-base
plate connection. In Figure 13(B), the weld-all-around
symbol indicates that the weld should continue around
the entire faying surface of the two workpieces. In Fig-
ure 13(C), the weld-all-around symbol conveys the fact
that the proposed weld occupies more than one plane.
Field Weld Symbol. Field welds are welds that are
made at a location such as an installation or erection
site, not in a shop or at the place of initial construction.
That fact that welds are to be made in the field is com-
municated by the addition of the field weld symbol to
the welding symbol. This symbol takes the shape of a
6. See Reference 2.
7. See Reference 2.
8. See Reference 2.
10 SYMBOLS FOR JOINING AND INSPECTION

Source: American Welding Society (AWS) Committee on Definitions and Symbols, 1998, Standard Symbols for Welding, Brazing, and Nondestructive Examination, ANSI/AWS
A2.4-98, Miami: American Welding Society, Figure 32.

Figure 9—Symbols Indicating the Size and Length of Fillet Welds

 SYMBOLS FOR JOINING AND INSPECTION 11

Source: Adapted from American Welding Society (AWS) Committee on Definitions and Symbols, 1998, Standard Symbols for Welding, Brazing, and
Nondestructive Examination, ANSI/AWS A2.4-98, Miami: American Welding Society, Figure 33.

Figure 10—Application of Intermittent Fillet Weld Symbols: (A) Length and Pitch of
Chain Intermittent Welds and (B) Length and Pitch of Staggered Intermittent Welds

Table 1
Frequently Used Welding Process Designations
Process Designation
Shielded metal arc welding SMAW
Submerged arc welding SAW
Gas metal arc welding GMAW
Flux cored arc welding FCAW
Gas tungsten arc welding GTAW
Plasma arc welding PAW
Oxyfuel gas welding OFW
Source: Adapted from American Welding Society (AWS) Committee on Definitions and Electron beam welding EBW
Symbols, 1998, Standard Symbols for Welding, Brazing, and Nondestructive Examination,
ANSI/AWS A2.4-98, Miami: American Welding Society, Paragraph 3.13.2, p. 8. Laser beam welding LBW
Resistance spot welding RSW
Figure 11—Finishing Symbols Resistance seam welding RSEW
12 SYMBOLS FOR JOINING AND INSPECTION
Source: American Welding Society (AWS) Committee on Definitions and Symbols, 1998, Standard Symbols for Welding, Brazing, and Nondestructive Examination, ANSI/AWS
A2.4-98, Miami: American Welding Society, Figure 3.
Figure 12—Supplementary Symbols
flag. It may be placed either above or below and per-
pendicular to the reference line at its junction with the
arrow.
Figure 14 illustrates the field weld symbol used in
conjunction with the weld-all-around symbol, commu-
nicating, in this case, that a single-V-groove weld is to
be applied along the extent of the weld joint in the field
followed by ultrasonic testing (UT) of the entire length
of the weld.
Melt-Through Symbol. The melt-through symbol,
presented in Figure 15, is used to prescribe complete
joint penetration (CJP) with visible root reinforcement
in welds made from one side. This symbol takes the
form of a semicircle. Unlike the back or backing weld
symbol shown in Figure 17, the melt-through symbol is
filled in.
As shown in Figure 15(A), the reinforcement is speci-
fied by placing the melt-through symbol on the side of
the reference line opposite the weld symbol. The height
of root reinforcement can be specified to the left of the
symbol, as shown in Figure 15(B). Control of the root
reinforcement height should be consistent with the
specified joint design and welding process.
Consumable Insert Symbol. The consumable
insert symbol, which takes the form of a square, is
placed on the side of the reference line opposite the
groove-weld symbol. The AWS classification and the
designations for the class and style of the insert are
placed in the tail of the welding symbol. This informa-
tion is obtained from Specification for Consumable
Inserts, AWS A5.30.9 Figure 16 presents a welding
symbol for a typical joint created with a consumable
insert.
Backing and Spacer Symbols. A backing symbol
is placed above or below the reference line to indicate
that a backing ring, strip, or bar is to be used in making
the weld. This symbol is used in combination with a
groove-weld symbol to avoid interpretation as a plug or
slot weld. This figure is drawn using the combination of
a groove-weld symbol on one side of the reference line
and a backing symbol on the opposite side.
Figure 17 presents a welding symbol for a typical
joint with backing. As shown in the illustration at the
left, the letter “R,” signifying “Remove,” is placed
within the backing symbol to indicate that the backing
is to be removed after welding. The backing type, mate-
rial, and dimensions are specified in the tail of the weld-
ing symbol or elsewhere on the drawing, such as in the
bill of material that is included with each drawing.
The welding symbol for a joint spacer inserted in the
joint root is shown in Figure 18. This symbol has the
shape of a modified groove-weld symbol with a rectan-
gle incorporated in it. The material and dimensions of
the joint spacer are specified in the tail of the welding
symbol or elsewhere on the drawing, such as in the bill
of material.
9. American Welding Society (AWS) Committee on Filler Metals and
Allied Materials, Specification for Consumable Inserts, ANSI/AWS
A5.30, Miami: American Welding Society.
 SYMBOLS FOR JOINING AND INSPECTION 13

Source: Adapted from American Welding Society (AWS) Committee on Definitions and Symbols, 1998, Standard Symbols for Welding, Brazing, and Nondestructive
Examination, ANSI/AWS A2.4-98, Miami: American Welding Society, Figure 9.

Figure 13—Applications of the Weld-All-Around Symbol: (A) Weld-All-Around

the Base of a Structural Shape; (B) Weld-All-Around the Edge of Two Halves;
and (C) Weld in Several Planes Around the Periphery
14 SYMBOLS FOR JOINING AND INSPECTION
Source: Adapted from American Welding Society (AWS) Committee on Definitions and
Symbols, 1998, Standard Symbols for Welding, Brazing, and Nondestructive Examination,
ANSI/AWS A2.4-98, Miami: American Welding Society, Paragraph 3.7.3, p. 6.
Figure 14—Field Weld Symbol Used in
Conjunction with the Weld-All-Around Symbol
Contour Symbol. The contour symbol is used on the
weld symbol to indicate the desired shape of the fin-
ished weld. The configuration of this symbol therefore
differs according to the desired weld shape. Welds that
are to be made approximately flat (fillet welds), flush
(groove welds), convex, or concave without subsequent
finishing are represented by adding the flat, flush, con-
vex, or concave contour symbol to the weld symbol, as
shown in Figure 19(A). Welds that are to be finished by
mechanical means are depicted by adding the symbol
for the desired finishing technique to the appropriate
contour symbol, as shown in Figure 19(B).
Source: Adapted from American Welding Society (AWS) Committee on Definitions and Symbols, 1998, Standard Symbols for Welding, Brazing,
and Nondestructive Examination, ANSI/AWS A2.4-98, Miami: American Welding Society, Figure 11.
Figure 15—Melt-Through Symbol
ORIENTATION OF SPECIFIC WELD
SYMBOLS
The symbols for bevel-groove, J-groove, flare-bevel-
groove, fillet, and corner-flange welds are oriented with
the perpendicular leg always to the left. When only one
member of a joint is to have the desired edge shape, the
arrow points with a definite break toward that member.
When the preparation is obvious or the beveling of one
member or the other is optional, the arrow need not be
broken.
These features are illustrated in Figure 20. In the
upper weld symbol, the broken arrow points to the
member requiring the single-J edge shape. A single-J-
groove weld is required on the other side of the joint,
furthest from the arrow. In the center symbol, a fillet
weld is required on the other side of the joint. The
lower welding symbol specifies a double-bevel-groove
weld. The broken arrow points to the member that is to
be beveled.
WELD DIMENSION TOLERANCE
When weld dimension tolerances are required, these
are noted in the tail of the welding symbol, as shown in
Figure 21. The notation includes a reference to the
dimension to which it applies. Alternatively, the toler-
 SYMBOLS FOR JOINING AND INSPECTION 15

illustration in Figure 22 requires a single-V-groove weld

Source: Adapted from American Welding Society (AWS) Committee on Definitions and
Symbols, 1998, Standard Symbols for Welding, Brazing, and Nondestructive Examination,
ANSI/AWS A2.4-98, Miami: American Welding Society, Paragraph 4.10, p. 27.
Figure 16—Welding Symbol with a
Consumable Insert Symbol and
Insert Classification in the Tail
from the other side of the joint and a back or backing
weld from the arrow side of the joint. The center illus-
tration specifies a single-bevel-groove weld on the
arrow side of the joint, with the broken arrow pointing
to the member that receives the single-bevel edge shape.
The other side of the joint is to receive a fillet weld. The
lower welding symbol calls for a single-bevel-groove
weld from the other side of the joint. The broken arrow
points to the member to be beveled. This groove weld is
reinforced with a fillet weld. The arrow side of the joint
receives only a fillet weld.

ance may be indicated by a drawing note, code, or

specification.
WELDING SYMBOLS FOR
SPECIFIC WELD TYPES
COMBINATIONS OF SYMBOLS This section illustrates the use of welding symbols
When a combination of welds is to be specified to for common types of welds. Weld types discussed
make a joint, the weld symbol for each weld is placed in include groove, fillet, plug, slot, spot, projection, seam,
the welding symbol, as shown in Figure 22. The upper stud, and edge welds.

Source: Adapted from American Welding Society (AWS) Committee on Definitions and Symbols, 1998, Standard Symbols for Welding,
Brazing, and Nondestructive Examination, ANSI/AWS A2.4-98, Miami: American Welding Society, Paragraph 4.8, p. 26.

Figure 17—Backing Symbol

Source: Adapted from American Welding Society (AWS) Committee on Definitions and Symbols, 1998, Standard Symbols for Welding,
Brazing, and Nondestructive Examination, ANSI/AWS A2.4-98, Miami: American Welding Society, Paragraph 4.9, p. 26.

Figure 18—Spacer Symbol

16 SYMBOLS FOR JOINING AND INSPECTION

Source: Adapted from American Welding Society (AWS) Committee on Definitions and Symbols, 1998, Standard Symbols for Welding, Brazing, and Nondestructive
Examination, ANSI/AWS A2.4-98, Miami: American Welding Society, Paragraphs 4.6.1, 4.6.2, and 5.6.1, pp. 25, 51.

Figure 19—Contour Symbol: (A) Without Finishing and (B) With Finishing

Source: Adapted from American Welding Society (AWS) Committee on Definitions and Source: American Welding Society (AWS) Committee on Definitions and Symbols,
Symbols, 1998, Standard Symbols for Welding, Brazing, and Nondestructive Examination, 1998, Standard Symbols for Welding, Brazing, and Nondestructive Examination, ANSI/
ANSI/AWS A2.4-98, Miami: American Welding Society, Paragraphs 3.2.2 and 3.4, p. 5. AWS A2.4-98, Miami: American Welding Society, Paragraph 3.18, p. 8.

Figure 20—Representative Welding Symbols Figure 21—Weld Dimension Tolerance

Indicating Only One Side of the Joint
Is to Have a Special Edge Shape

Source: Adapted from American Welding Society (AWS) Committee on Definitions and
Symbols, 1998, Standard Symbols for Welding, Brazing, and Nondestructive Examination,
ANSI/AWS A2.4-98, Miami: American Welding Society, Paragraphs 3.2.3.2, 3.5, and
4.7.2, pp. 5, 25.
Figure 22—Combined Weld Symbols
Source: Adapted from American Welding Society (AWS) Committee on Definitions and Symbols, 1998, Standard Symbols for Welding, Brazing, and Nondestructive
Examination, ANSI/AWS A2.4-98, Miami: American Welding Society, Figure 14(B).
Figure 23—Symbol for Single-V-Groove Weld
SYMBOLS FOR JOINING AND INSPECTION 17
Groove Welds
In a single-V-groove weld, both members are beveled
equally to form a groove at the joint. Figure 23 depicts
a single-V-groove weld and the appropriate welding
symbol. This arrow-side groove weld is of the partial-
joint-penetration type since the size of the groove weld
is less than the material thickness. The size of the groove
weld is greater than the depth of the bevel; therefore,
the root penetration must extend 1/8 in. into the joint
root.
If a V-shaped groove is required on both sides of the
joint, the weld is a double-V-groove type. A schematic
illustration of this weld and the symbol representing a
double-V-groove weld with symmetrical bevels are
shown in Figure 24. This symbol does not show the
depth of bevel; therefore, a joint symmetrical at or
about the plate’s mid-thickness is required.
When an asymmetrical V-groove geometry is desired,
the depth of bevel must be specified, as shown in Figure
25. The welding symbol specifies a double-V-groove
weld that is asymmetrical about the midline of the
member thickness. In this case, the total groove weld
size equals the member thickness of 1 in.
18 SYMBOLS FOR JOINING AND INSPECTION

Figure 24—Symbol for a Symmetrical Double-V-Groove Weld

Source: Adapted from American Welding Society (AWS) Committee on Definitions and Symbols, 1998, Standard Symbols for Welding, Brazing, and
Nondestructive Examination, ANSI/AWS A2.4-98, Miami: American Welding Society, Figure 21(D).

Figure 25—Symbol for an Asymmetrical Double-V Groove Weld

A single-flare-bevel-groove weld is made when a
round member is placed on a flat surface and a weld
is deposited lengthwise along one side. A schematic
of such a weld and the appropriate symbol are shown
in Figure 26. It should be noted that the weld rein-
forcement is not considered part of the groove weld
size.
A single-flare-V-groove is made when two round
members are placed side by side and welded together
lengthwise. The round shapes may be bent or rolled
plates, pipes, or tubes. The weld and the applicable
symbol are shown in Figure 27. The welding symbol
specifies a weld on the other side (furthest from the
arrow) of the joint. Weld reinforcement is not consid-
ered in the determination of groove weld size.
Fillet Welds
A fillet weld has an approximate triangular cross sec-
tion and joins two surfaces at about 90° to each other.
Lap, corner, and T-joints can be joined by fillet welds.
When the surfaces to be joined form an angle greater or
less than 90°, the weld should be specified with appro-
priate explanatory details and notes. Fillet welds also
 SYMBOLS FOR JOINING AND INSPECTION 19

Source: Adapted from American Welding Society (AWS) Committee on Definitions and Symbols, 1998, Standard Sym-
bols for Welding, Brazing, and Nondestructive Examination, ANSI/AWS A2.4-98, Miami: American Welding Society,
Figure 20(A).

Figure 26—Symbol for Single-Flare-Bevel Groove Weld

Source: Adapted from American Welding Society (AWS) Committee on Definitions and Symbols, 1998, Standard
Symbols for Welding, Brazing, and Nondestructive Examination, ANSI/AWS A2.4-98, Miami: American Welding Society,
Figure 20(C).

Figure 27—Symbol for

Single-Flare-V-Groove Weld
20 SYMBOLS FOR JOINING AND INSPECTION

are used in conjunction with groove welds as reinforce-
ment in T- and corner joints.
Schematics of fillet welds and examples of the fillet
weld symbol are shown in Figure 28. In Figure 28(A), a
5/16 in. fillet weld is required on the arrow side of the
joint. The legs of this weld are required to be 5/16 in. in
size. Figure 28(B) shows a welding symbol for an
unequal leg fillet weld. For this type of fillet weld, the
welding symbol does not specify the orientation of the
fillet weld, so this must be shown elsewhere on the
drawing.
Plug and Slot Welds
Plug and slot welds are similar in design, but slot
welds are elongated in one direction. In both cases, a
hole or slot is made in only one member of the work-
piece. These welds are not to be confused with fillet
welds in a hole because both plug and slot welds
require uniform depths of filling.
Although dimensions for the weld size (i.e., the
diameter at the faying surface), angle of countersink,
depth of fill, and pitch (i.e., center-to-center spacing) of
plug welds may be expressed on the welding symbol,
the location and orientation of plug or slot welds
should be specified on the drawing.
Figures 29 and 30 present schematic illustrations
of plug and slot welds, respectively, and their corre-
sponding welding symbols. Figure 29 illustrates a line
of three plug welds in a 45° countersink hole. In this
example, the depth of filling required is less than the
depth of the hole. The plug weld size, measured at the
faying surface is 1 inch (in.). Figure 30 shows a line of
two slot welds. The slots are not completely filled with
weld metal, and no countersink is required. The width
of the slot welds is 3/4 in. at the faying surface.
Spot Welds
A spot weld is made between or upon overlapping
members in which coalescence may begin and continue

--`,,,,``,,,,,,````,,``,,,`,,`-`-`,,`,,`,`,,`---

Source: Adapted from American Welding Society (AWS) Committee on Definitions and Symbols, 1998, Standard Symbols for Welding, Brazing,
and Nondestructive Examination, ANSI/AWS A2.4-98, Miami: American Welding Society, Figure 32(D).

Figure 28—Symbol for Fillet Welds: (A) Weld with Equal Legs and (B) Weld with Unequal Legs

Figure 29—Symbol for a Plug Weld
over the faying surfaces or may proceed from the sur-
face of one member. The weld cross section (plan view)
is approximately circular. Fusion welding processes that
have the capability of melting through one member of a
joint and fusing with the second member at the faying
surface can be used to make spot welds. Resistance
welding equipment can also be used.
Schematic illustrations of arc and resistance spot
welds are shown in Figure 31, together with the proper
welding symbols. Figure 31(A) shows a welding sym-
bol for a line of nine arc slot welds to be made with the
gas tungsten arc welding process from the arrow side
of the joint. The spot welds are spaced at 2 in. center
to center and have a diameter of 0.25 in. at the faying
surfaces. The drawings specify the orientation of the
slot welds.
In Figure 31(B), the welding symbol specifies a line
of five resistance spot welds. The welds have a diameter
of 0.25 in. at the faying surfaces and are spaced at 1 in.
center to center. The drawing specifies the location of
SYMBOLS FOR JOINING AND INSPECTION 21
the first spot weld in the line. Since the resistance spot
welding process has no arrow or other side significance,
the weld symbol is centered on the reference line.
Projection Welds
The weld symbol for projection welds is the same as
that for spot welds, except that the symbol is placed
above or below the reference line to specify the member
to be embossed. The process is indicated in the tail of
the welding symbol. A schematic illustration of a resis-
tance projection weld and its corresponding welding
symbol are presented in Figure 32.
Seam Welds
A seam weld is a continuous weld made between or
upon overlapping members. Coalescence may start and
occur on the faying surfaces, or may proceed from the
surface of one member. The continuous weld may be a
22 SYMBOLS FOR JOINING AND INSPECTION
Figure 30—Symbol for a Slot Weld
single weld bead or a series of overlapping spot welds.
Seam welds are made with processes and equipment
similar to those used for spot welding. A means of
moving the welding head along the seam must be
provided. Examples of arc and resistance seam welds
and their appropriate welding symbols are shown in
Figure 33.
Stud Welds
The weld symbol for stud welds is similar to that for
spot welds except that the circle contains a cross. The
symbol is placed below the reference line and the arrow
pointed to the surface to which the stud is to be welded.
The size of the stud is specified to the left of the weld
symbol, the pitch is indicated to the right, and the num-
ber of stud welds is placed below the symbol in paren-
theses. Dimensions for the spacing of stud welds in any
configuration other than a straight line must be stated
on the drawing.
Figure 34 illustrates the use of the stud weld symbol.
The welding symbol specifies three lines of seven studs
each. The studs, which are 3/4 in. in diameter, are
spaced in each line at 4 in. from center to center. The
orientation of this grouping of studs is explained by the
drawing.
Edge Welds
The edge weld symbol is used when the full thickness
of the joint members in edge joints, flanged butt joints,
 SYMBOLS FOR JOINING AND INSPECTION 23

Source: Adapted from American Welding Society (AWS) Committee on Definitions and Symbols, 1998, Standard Symbols for Welding, Brazing, and Nondestructive Examination,
ANSI/AWS A2.4-98, Miami: American Welding Society, Figures 40(D) and (F).

Figure 31—Symbol for Spot Welds: (A) Arc Spot Welds and (B) Resistance Spot Welds

or flanged corner joints are to be fused. Figure 35 pre- LETTER DESIGNATIONS FOR BRAZING
sents several examples.
PROCESSES
The brazing processes used in construction can be des-
ignated by letters. The brazing processes and their corre-
BRAZING SYMBOLS sponding letter designations are presented in Table 2.

The symbols for brazing have the same basic structure BRAZED JOINTS
as welding symbols. The clearance between the mem-
bers may be specified in a similar manner to that used When no special preparation other than cleaning is
for root openings with welding symbols. required for the production of a brazed joint, the arrow
24 SYMBOLS FOR JOINING AND INSPECTION

--`,,,,``,,,,,,````,,``,,,`,,`-`-`,,`,,`,`,,`---
Source: Adapted from American Welding Society (AWS) Committee on Definitions and Symbols, 1998, Standard Symbols for Welding, Brazing, and Nondestructive Examination,
ANSI/AWS A2.4-98, Miami: American Welding Society, Figure 41(A).

Figure 32—Symbol for Resistance Projection Welds

and reference line are used with the brazing process dimensions can be incorporated into a brazing
indicated by placing the process designation in the tail. symbol.
Figure 36 shows a sketch and accompanying symbol
depicting a brazed socket joint.
The application of conventional weld symbols to
brazed joints is illustrated in Figures 37(A) through
37(F). Figure 37(A) shows the desired scarf configura- SOLDERING SYMBOLS
tion and the dimensions of a brazed joint on the left
and the corresponding brazing symbol on the right.
Figure 37(A) also shows the method of specifying a The symbols used for soldered joints have the same
scarf angle. Figures 37(A), (B), (C), (D), and (F) basic structure as those used for welding. When no spe-
demonstrate the manner in which joint clearance cial preparation other than cleaning is required for the
 SYMBOLS FOR JOINING AND INSPECTION 25

Source: Adapted from American Welding Society (AWS) Committee on Definitions and Symbols, 1998, Standard Symbols for Welding, Brazing, and Nondestructive Examination,
ANSI/AWS A2.4-98, Miami: American Welding Society, Figure 44.

Figure 33—Symbols for Seam Welds

26 SYMBOLS FOR JOINING AND INSPECTION

Source: Adapted from American Welding Society (AWS) Committee on Definitions and Symbols, 1998, Standard Symbols for Welding, Brazing, and Nondestructive
Examination, ANSI/AWS A2.4-98, Miami: American Welding Society, Figure 47(B).

Figure 34—Symbol for Stud Welds

--`,,,,``,,,,,,````,,``,,,`,,`-`-`,,`,,`,`,,`---

Source: Adapted from American Welding Society (AWS) Committee on Definitions and Symbols, 1998, Standard Symbols for Welding, Brazing, and
Nondestructive Examination, ANSI/AWS A2.4-98, Miami: American Welding Society, Figures 46(A) and (E).

Figure 35—Applications of Edge Weld Symbols

 SYMBOLS FOR JOINING AND INSPECTION 27

Table 2 SOLDERED JOINTS

Letter Designations for Brazing Processes
Similar to the symbols for brazing, soldering sym-
Process Designation bols may incorporate clearance and length of overlap
Block brazing BB dimensions.
Carbon arc brazing CAB
Dip brazing DB
Exothermic brazing EXB
INSPECTION SYMBOLS
Furnace brazing FB
Induction brazing IB
On engineering drawings, inspection symbols pro-
Infrared brazing IRB vide a means for specifying the method of examination
Resistance brazing RB to be used. Nondestructive examination symbols (NDE)
Torch brazing TB are specified along with welding symbols by using an
additional reference line or by specifying the examina-
tion method in the tail of the welding symbol.

ELEMENTS OF INSPECTION SYMBOLS

production of a soldered joint, the arrow and the refer- Nondestructive examination symbols are composed
ence line are used with the soldering process indicated of the following elements:
by placing the process designation in the tail.
1. Reference line;
2. Arrow;
LETTER DESIGNATIONS FOR SOLDERING 3. Tail;
PROCESSES 4. Examination method letter designations;
5. Extent of examinations;

--`,,,,``,,,,,,````,,``,,,`,,`-`-`,,`,,`,`,,`---
The soldering processes and their corresponding let- 6. Specifications, codes, and other references; and
ter designations are presented in Table 3. 7. Supplementary symbols.

Source: Adapted from American Welding Society (AWS) Committee on Definitions and Symbols, 1998, Standard Symbols for Welding,
Brazing, and Nondestructive Examination, ANSI/AWS A2.4-98, Miami: American Welding Society, Figure 49.

Figure 36—Desired Braze and Corresponding Brazing Symbol

28 SYMBOLS FOR JOINING AND INSPECTION

Source: Adapted from American Welding Society (AWS) Committee on Definitions and Symbols, 1998, Standard Symbols for Welding, Brazing, and
Nondestructive Examination, ANSI/AWS A2.4-98, Miami: American Welding Society, Figure 49.

Figure 37—Application of Brazing Symbols

 SYMBOLS FOR JOINING AND INSPECTION 29
--`,,,,``,,,,,,````,,``,,,`,,`-`-`,,`,,`,`,,`---

Source: Adapted from American Welding Society (AWS) Committee on Definitions and Symbols, 1998, Standard Symbols for Welding, Brazing, and
Nondestructive Examination, ANSI/AWS A2.4-98, Miami: American Welding Society, Figure 49.

Figure 37 (Continued)—Application of Brazing Symbols

30 SYMBOLS FOR JOINING AND INSPECTION

Table 3 Table 4
Letter Designations for Soldering Processes Nondestructive Examination Letter Designations
Process Designation Examination Method Designation
Dip soldering DS Acoustic emission AET
Furnace soldering FS Electromagnetic ET
Induction soldering IS Leak LT
Infrared soldering IRS Magnetic particle MT
Iron soldering INS Neutron radiographic NRT
Torch soldering TS Penetrant PT
Ultrasonic soldering USS Proof PRT
Wave soldering WS Radiographic RT
Ultrasonic UT
Visual VT
Source: Adapted from American Welding Society (AWS) Committee on
The elements used in inspection symbols are described Definitions and Symbols, 1998, Standard Symbols for Welding, Brazing, and
Nondestructive Examination, ANSI/AWS A2.4-98, Miami: American Welding
in detail below. Society, p. 89.

Reference Line
The reference line is the basic and required symbol
element about which the inspection information is
located. The preferred orientation is horizontal.

Arrow
The arrow connects the reference line to the work-
piece to be examined. The side of the workpiece to
which the arrow points is known as the arrow side. The
side opposite the arrow side is termed the other side.

Tail
When a specification or other reference is needed to
convey the requirements of the inspection process, this
information is placed in a tail of the symbol. The tail is
omitted when no specification or other reference is
needed.
Figure 38—Location and Significance of
Letter Designations in Brazing Symbols:
(A) Examine the Arrow Side; (B) Examine
the Other Side; (C) Examine Both Sides;
and (D) No Side Significance

Examination Method Letter Designations

The letter designations used to indicate the various
nondestructive examination processes are presented in
Table 4. Figure 38 illustrates the locations of these letter
designations with respect to the reference line and their
corresponding significance. To indicate that examina-
tions are to be performed on the arrow side of a joint,
the examination method letter designation symbol is
placed below the reference line. Figure 38(A) illustrates
this convention.
Examinations to be made on the other side of the
joint are indicated by placing the basic examination
symbol above the reference line, as shown in Figure
38(B). Examinations to be made on both sides of the
joint are indicated by positioning the basic examination
symbols on both sides of the reference line, as in Figure
38(C).
When the examination can be performed from either
side or when no arrow-side or other-side significance
exists, the basic examination symbols are centered in
the reference line. This arrangement is shown in Figure
38(D).
 SYMBOLS FOR JOINING AND INSPECTION 31

STANDARD LOCATION OF THE ELEMENTS Number of Examinations. Standard conventions

IN THE NONDESTRUCTIVE EXAMINATION
SYMBOL
The locations of the elements of the nondestructive
examination symbol with respect to one another are
standard. These are shown in Figure 39.
Extent of the Examination
The conventions used to convey the extent of nonde-
structive examination are illustrated in Figure 40.
Length to Be Examined. To specify that the exami-
nation concerns only the length of a section, the desired
length is positioned to the right of the NDE symbol.
This convention is illustrated in Figure 40(A). To show
the exact location of a section to be examined as well as
its length, appropriate dimensions are included in the
drawing, as illustrated in Figure 40(B).
When no length dimension is included in the nonde-
structive examination symbol, it is understood that the
full length of a workpiece is to be examined. When a
partial examination of the length of a weld or work-
piece is to be prescribed, with the locations determined
by a specified procedure, the length to be examined is
indicated by placing the appropriate percentage to the
right of the letter designation, as illustrated in Figure
40(C).
are also used to indicate the number of examinations to
be performed. When several examinations are to be
made on a joint or part at random locations, the num-
ber of examinations is given in parentheses either above
or below the letter designation, as shown in Figure
40(D). If no number is specified, only one examination
is to be conducted.
Figure 40(E) illustrates the use of the examine-all-
around symbol to indicate that complete examination is
to be made of a continuous joint, such as a circumferen-
tial pipe joint.
Area to Be Examined. The nondestructive examina-
tion of specific areas of a workpiece is prescribed using
various methods. These conventions are illustrated in
Figure 41. To specify that a plane area is to be exam-
ined, the target area is indicated on the drawing by
enclosing it with straight broken lines and placing a cir-
cle at each change of direction. The method of nonde-
structive examination to be employed in the enclosed
area is designated with the appropriate letter designa-
tion, as shown in Figure 41(A). The area may be located
by coordinate dimensions, which would be shown on
the drawing.
When the nondestructive examination of areas of
revolution is to be performed, the area to be examined
is indicated by using the examine-all-around symbol
and the appropriate dimensions. For example, the upper
symbol used in Figure 41(B) indicates that the bore
of the hub is to be inspected using magnetic particle

Source: American Welding Society (AWS) Committee on Definitions and Symbols, 1998, Standard Symbols for Welding, Brazing, and Nondestructive
Examination, ANSI/AWS A2.4-98, Miami: American Welding Society, Figure 50.

Figure 39—Standard Location of the Elements

in the Nondestructive Examination Symbol
32 SYMBOLS FOR JOINING AND INSPECTION

--`,,,,``,,,,,,````,,``,,,`,,`-`-`,,`,,`,`,,`---

Source: Adapted from AWS Committee on Definitions and Symbols, 1998, Standard
Symbols for Welding, Brazing and Nondestructive Examination, ANSI/AWS A2.4-98,
Paragraph 18.3, p. 92.

Source: Adapted from AWS Committee on Definitions and Symbols, 1998, Standard
Symbols for Welding, Brazing and Nondestructive Examination, ANSI/AWS A2.4-98,
Paragraphs 16.1, 18.1, and 18.2, pp. 91–92.
Figure 40—Extent of Examination
Figure 41—Symbols Indicating the
Nondestructive Examination of Specific Areas:
(A) Plane Areas; (B) Area of Revolution—One
Side; and (C) Area of Revolution—Both Sides
 SYMBOLS FOR JOINING AND INSPECTION 33

examination for a distance of 3 in. from the flange face.

The lower symbol indicates that an area of revolution is
to be examined radiographically. The width of the area
is specified using the dimension line.
The symbol used in Figure 41(C) indicates that a
pipe or tube is to be subjected to an internal proof
examination and an external electromagnetic examina-
tion. As no limiting dimensions are shown, it is under-
stood that the entire length is to be inspected.
Acoustic emission examination is typically per-
formed on all or a large portion of a component, such
as a pressure vessel or a pipe. Thus, the symbol shown Source: Adapted from AWS Committee on Definitions and Symbols, 1998, Standard
in Figure 42 is used to indicate the application of this Symbols for Welding, Brazing and Nondestructive Examination, ANSI/AWS A2.4-98,
Paragraph 18.3.3, p. 92.
method of examination, which needs no specific refer-
ence to the location of the sensors. Figure 42—Specification of Area to Be Inspected
Using Acoustic Emission Testing

Specifications, Codes, and Other

References
When a specification, code, or other reference is des-
ignated in a nondestructive examination symbol, the
relevant information is placed in the tail. The edition of
the code or standard is also included in the tail.
This convention is illustrated in Figure 43. In the
symbol on the left, Paragraph 6.12 of Structural Weld-
ing Code—Steel, AWS D1.1:200010 is referenced. This
provides acceptance criteria for radiographic examina-
tion. In the symbol on the right, The use of penetrant
examination on the other side of the weldment is
required; the Reference “354,” which could refer to a
procedure, a specification, or a drawing, provides addi- Source: Adapted from American Welding Society (AWS) Committee on Definitions and
Symbols, 1998, Standard Symbols for Welding, Brazing, and Nondestructive Examination,
tional information applicable to the examination. Spec- ANSI/AWS A2.4-98, Miami: American Welding Society, Paragraph 17, p. 91.
ifications, codes, or other references need not be
included in nondestructive examination symbols if they Figure 43—Symbols Indicating Specification,
are listed elsewhere such as in drawing notes. Codes, and Other References

Supplementary Symbols
Three types of supplementary symbols are used with
nondestructive examination symbols. These, the exam-
ine-all-around symbol, the field examination symbol,
and the radiation direction symbol, are shown in Figure
44(A). Figures 44(B), (C), and (D) illustrate the applica-
tion of these supplementary symbols.
Examine-All-Around Symbol. The examine-all-
around symbol specifies that examination is to be
conducted all around the weld, joint, or weldment.
Examples are presented in Figure 44(B).
10. American Welding Society (AWS) Committee on Structural Weld-
ing, 2000, Structural Welding Code—Steel, AWS D1.1:2000, Miami:
American Welding Society.
Field Examination. The field examination symbol
requires that the examination be conducted in the field
as opposed to in a shop or at the place of initial con-
struction. Examples are shown in 44(C).
Direction of Radiation. The direction of radiation
to be used in radiographic testing may be shown in con-
junction with radiographic (RT) and neutron radio-
graphic (NRT) examination symbols. The direction of
radiation is indicated with a symbol that resembles a
star representing the source of radiation and a line
located in the drawing at the desired angle. The angle is
specified in degrees. Figure 44(D) illustrates the use of
this symbol.
34 SYMBOLS FOR JOINING AND INSPECTION

Source: Adapted from American Welding Society (AWS) Committee on Definitions and
Symbols, 1998, Standard Symbols for Welding, Brazing, and Nondestructive Examination,
ANSI/AWS A2.4-98, Miami: American Welding Society, Paragraph 15.2, p. 90.
Source: Adapted from American Welding Society (AWS) Committee on Definitions and
--`,,,,``,,,,,,````,,``,,,`,,`-`-`,,`,,`,`,,`---

Symbols, 1998, Standard Symbols for Welding, Brazing, and Nondestructive Examination, Figure 45—Combinations of Symbols:
ANSI/AWS A2.4-98, Miami: American Welding Society, Paragraphs 14.2, 16.1, 16.2,
and 16.3, pp. 89, 91. (A) Nondestructive Examination and Welding;
(B) Multiple Nondestructive Examination
Figure 44—Supplementary Symbols Methods; and (C) Symbols with
for Nondestructive Examination Side and No-Side Significance

Combinations of Welding and
Nondestructive Examination Symbols
Nondestructive examination symbols can be used in
combination with welding symbols in the engineering
drawings. In addition, nondestructive examination
symbols are often combined with each other to pre-
scribe examination using more than one inspection
method. Typical combinations of symbols are depicted
in Figure 45.
The combination of welding symbols with nonde-
structive examination symbols is illustrated in Figure
45(A). The symbol on the left requires that a single-V-
groove weld be produced first from the arrow side of
the joint. Then, a back weld is to be applied from the
other side of the joint. The completed weld is to be
examined from each side using the magnetic particle
examination method. The symbol on the right calls for a
double-V-groove weld, followed by ultrasonic examina-
tion in the field from one side or the other of the joint.
The application of more than one inspection method
is specified for the same workpiece by positioning the
letter designations of the desired inspection methods in
the appropriate position with respect to the reference
line. A plus sign (+) is used to separate the designated
nondestructive examination methods. This convention
is illustrated in Figure 45(B). When an examination
method with no arrow-side or other-side significance
and another method that has side significance are to be
used, the nondestructive examination symbols may be
combined, as shown in Figure 45(C).
CONCLUSION
The use of welding, brazing, soldering, and nonde-
structive examination symbols saves time and space on
drawings. The symbols and the standardized conven-
tions for their use help minimize the repetition of the
information and provide information that would other-
wise be provided in copious notes or a multiple of
drawing details. The reader is encouraged to become
familiar with these symbols and their use in order to
benefit from the economy that they afford.
SYMBOLS FOR JOINING AND INSPECTION 35
11
BIBLIOGRAPHY11
American Welding Society (AWS) Committee on Defini-
tions. 2001. Standard Welding Terms and Defini-
tions. AWS A3.0:2001. Miami: American Welding
Society.
American Welding Society (AWS) Committee on Struc-
tural Welding. 2000. Structural welding code—Steel.
AWS D1.1:2000. Miami: American Welding Society.
American Welding Society (AWS) Committee on Defini-
tions and Symbols. 1998. Standard symbols for
welding, brazing, and nondestructive examination.
ANSI/AWS A2.4-98. Miami: American Welding
Society.
American Welding Society (AWS) Committee on Filler
Metals and Allied Materials. 1997. Specification for
consumable inserts. ANSI/AWS A5.30-97. Miami:
American Welding Society.
American Welding Society (AWS) Committee on Meth-
ods of Inspection. 1999. Guide for nondestructive
examination of welds. AWS B1.10:1999. Miami:
American Welding Society.
SUPPLEMENTARY
READING LIST
A. E. Bennet, and L. J. Siy. 1993. Blueprint reading for
welders. Albany, New York: Delmar Publishers.
American Society of Mechanical Engineers (ASME).
1998. Engineering drawing practices. ANSI
Y14.100M-1998. New York: American Society of
Mechanical Engineers.
11. The dates of publication given for the codes and other standards
listed here were current at the time this chapter was prepared. The
reader is advised to consult the latest edition.