Learn more about the 4 types of welding positions that welders can be certified to perform.



Introduction

Magnum NDT technicians encounter several unique welding positions when performing non-destructive testing. In untrained hands, welding can be a safety hazard. That is why professional standard organizations such as ASME, AWS, ISO, JWES make rules and classifications for welding positions. Welders must be certified in each position in order to perform those types of welds. Pipe welding positions can be divided into 4 groups: 1G, 2G, 5G and 6G.

1G Position



In the 1G welding position, the pipe is in the horizontal position and can be rotated along the horizontal (X) axis. The welder's position remains stationary. Welding is performed on the top of the pipe. This is the most basic welding position that can be performed.



2G Position



In the 2G welding position, the pipe is in the vertical position and can be rotated along the vertical (Y) axis. The welder's position remains stationary. Welding is performed on the side of the pipe in a horizontal direction.



5G Position



In the 5G welding position, the pipe is in the horizontal position. Unlike the 1G position, the pipe is in a fixed position and it cannot be rotated. The welder moves around the pipe in the vertical direction to perform the welding.



6G Position



In the 6G welding position, the pipe slopes at approximately 45° from the horizontal (X) axis or 45° from the vertical (Y) axis. The pipe is in a fixed position, so the welder must move around the pipe to perform the welding. This is an advanced welding position that requires a great deal of experience and technical expertise.



Levels of Experience



A welder's mastery over each welding position acts as a certification that qualifies him or her to perform more types of welding work. In other words, mastery over each position levels up a welder's qualifications. For instance, if a welder only a 1G position qualification, he cannot conduct welding in more advanced positions such as 2G, 5G, or 6G. If a welder has attained a 6G position qualification, he or she is permitted to carry out welding in the 1G, 2G, and 5G positions. These standards must be maintained in order to preserve the safety of the work environment.



Welding Joints



For information on welding joints, view this helpful infographic