Welding Positions

 There are four basic welding positions as shown in Figure 2.35. These positions are used for welder certification. Welder's certification is based on a number of factors which include the welding joint type and the position in which the test weld was performed.

There are four basic positions that a weld can be made as follows:

1. Flat position

2. Horizontal position

3. Vertical position

4. Overhead position.

Fillet or groove welds can be made in all of these positions.

(a) Flat position

In a flat position, a weld is performed along largely a horizontal access and from above the joint. It is the easiest type of weld to perform. Because of gravity, the position in which you are welding affects the flow of molten filler metal. Flat position is used wherever possible because gravity draws the molten metal downward into the joint making the welding faster and easier.

(b) Horizontal position

In the horizontal position, the weld's axis is the horizontal plane. Horizontal welding is often used for fillet or groove welds. Horizontal welding is a little more difficult because the molten metal tends to sag or flow downhill onto the lower plate..

(c) Vertical position

With a vertical position, the weld's axis is largely in a vertical or upright position. It is typically more complicated to perform than flat and horizontal welding.

(d) Overhead position

This is the most complicated of the four positions. Welding is performed from the underside of the joint. Because the weld metal flows downward, this position requires a considerable practice to produce good quality welds.