WELDING
POSITIONS
4 MAIN TYPES A QUICK REFERENCE
1G 2G 3G 4G
FLAT
WELD
For any welding
process
Technique: The workpiece is placed flat, an electric arc is passed over it,
in a horizontal direction. Top surface of the joint is welded, allowing the
molten metal to flow downward into the joint groove or edges.
1G 2G 3G 4G
HORIZONTAL
WELD
For out-of-position welds,
requires higher skillset
Technique: The weld axis is roughly horizontal. The position is executed
based on the type of weld. For groove welds, the weld face is along a vertical
line. For fillet welds, the weld bead is done where the horizontal and vertical
surfaces of the metals meet at a 90o.
1G 2G 3G 4G
VERTICAL
WELD
For challenging positions where flat or horizontal
welds are difficult, requires higher skillset
Technique: The workpiece and plate lie vertically, and welds can be performed
vertical up or down. Vertical up is mostly used on thicker and large weldments.
This is a challenging weld since gravity pulls the molten metal downward
and piles up metal.
1G 2G 3G 4G
OVERHEAD
WELD
For complex positions,
requires expert skillset
Technique: The workpiece is above the welder and the welding is done from
the underside of the joint. In most cases, welders will find themselves lying
on the floor, as this position is performed on metals or fixed equipment
that cannot be moved.
When you start working on a welding position,
it is always a good idea to perform a few practice
passes before welding to ensure you complete
the entire weld length in a comfortable position.
! REMEMBER
VERY IMPORTANT
The filler metal you choose and mode of transfer
determine the welding position you should go for.