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American Welding Society
ANSI/AWS A5.17/A5.17M-97 (R2007)
An American National Standard
Specification for
Carbon Steel
Electrodes and
Fluxes for
Submerged Arc
WeldingKey Words — Carbon steel electrodes, submerged ANSV/AWS A5.17/A5.17M-97 (R2007)
are flux crushed slag, welding ‘An American National Standard
electrodes, filler metal specification,
nil se, oid electrode composite Approved by the
electrode
‘American National Standards Institute
September 25, 1997
Specification for
Carbon Steel Electrodes and Fluxes
for Submerged Arc Wel
‘Supersedes ANSVAWS AS.17-89
Prepared by the
‘American Welding Society (AWS) AS Committee on Filler Metals
Under the Direction ofthe
AWS Technical Activities Committee
Approved by the
AWS Board of Directors
Abstract
This specification provides requirements for the classification of solid and composite carbon steel electrodes and
fluxes for submerged are welding. Electrode classification is based on chemical composition of the electrode for solid
electrodes, and chemical composition of the weld metal for composite electrodes. Flux classification is based on the me-
chanical properties of weld metal produced with the flux and an electrode classified herein. Other requirements include
sizes, marking, manufacturing and packaging. The form and usability ofthe flux are also included.
‘This specification makes use of both U.S. Customary Units and the International System of Units (SD). Since these are
not equivalent, each system must be used independently of the other
American Welding Society
550 N.W. LeJeune Road, Miami, FL 33126ANSUAWS AS.17/85.17M-97 (R2007)
International Standard Book Number: 978-0-87171-530-2
‘American Welding Society
‘550 N.W, Leleune Road, Miami, FL 33126
© 1998 by American Welding Society
All rights reserved
Printed in the United States of America
Reaffirmed: April 20, 2007
Photocopy Rights. No portion of this standard may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system, or transmitted in any
form, including mechanical, photocopying, recording, or otherwise, without the prior written permission ofthe copyright
Authorization to photocopy items for internal, personal, or educational classroom use only or the intemal, personal, or
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fee is paid to the Copyright Clearance Center, 222 Rosewood Drive, Danvers, MA 01923, tl: (978) 750-8400; Internet:
-.
iiANSVAWS AS.17/A5.174-97 (2007)
Statement on the Use of American Welding Society Standards
Al standards (codes, specifications, recommended practices, methods, classifications, and guides) of the American
Welding Society (AWS) are voluntary consensus standards that have been developed in accordance with the rules ofthe
‘American National Standards Institute (ANSI). When AWS American National Standards are either incorporated in, or
‘made part of, documents that are included in federal or state laws and regulations, or the regulations of other govem=
‘mental bodies, their provisions carry the full legal authority of the statute, In such cases, any changes in those AWS
standards must be approved by the governmental body having statutory jurisdiction before they can become a part of
‘those laws and regulations. In all cases, these standards carry the ull legal authority of the contractor other document
that invokes the AWS standards. Where this contractual relationship exists, changes in or deviations from requirements
of an AWS standard must be by agreement between the contracting parties,
AWS American National Standards are developed through a consensus standards development process that brings
together volunteers representing varied viewpoints and interests to achieve consensus. While AWS administers the process
and establishes rules to promote faimess in the development of consensus, it does not independently test, evaluate, or
verify the accuracy of any information or the soundness of any judgments contained in its standards.
AWS disclaims liability for any injury to persons or to property, or other damages of any nature whatsoever, whether
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Inissuing and making this standard available, AWS is neither undertaking to ender professional or other services for or
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‘This standard may be superseded by the issuance of new editions. Users should ensure that they have the latest edition,
Publication of this standard does not authorize inftingement of any patent or trade name. Users of this standard accept
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‘any patent or product trade name resulting from the use ofthis standard,
Finally, AWS does not monitor, police, or enforce compliance with this standard, nor does it have the power to do so.
On occasion, text, tables, or figures are printed incorectly, constituting errata. Such errata, when discovered, are posted
on the AWS web page (www.aws.org)
Official interpretations of any of the technical requirements of this standard may only be obtained by sending a request,
in writing, to the appropriate technical committee. Such requests should be addressed to the American Welding Society,
‘Attention: Managing Director, Technical Services Division, $50 N.W. Leleune Road, Miami, FL 33126 (see Annex B)
‘With regard to technical inquiries made concerning AWS standards, oral opinions on AWS standards may be rendered.
‘These opinions are offered solely as a convenience to users of this standard, and they do not constitute professional
advice. Such opinions represent only the personal opinions of the particular individuals giving them. These individuals
do not speak on behalf of AWS, nor do these oral opinions constitute official or unofficial opinions or interpretations of
AWS. In addition, oral opinions are informal and should not be used as a substitute for an official interpretation.
This standard is subject to revision at any time by the AWS AS Committee on Filler Metals. It must be reviewed every
five years, and if not revised, it must be either reaffirmed or withdrawn, Comments (recommendations, additions, or dele-
tions) and any pertinent data that may be of use in improving this standard are required and should be addressed to
AWS Headquarters. Such comments will receive careful consideration by the AWS AS Committee on Filler Metals and
the author of the comments will be informed of the Committee's response to the comments, Guests are invited to attend
all meetings of the AWS AS Committee on Filler Metals to express theie comments verbally. Procedures for appeal of
an adverse decision conceming all such comments are provided in the Rules of Operation of the Technical Activities
‘Committe. A copy of these Rules can be obtained from the American Welding Society, 550 N.W. LeJeune Road, Miami,
FL33126,ANSUAWS AS.17/A5.17M.97 (F2007)
‘This page is intentionally blank.ANSAWS AS.17/A5.176-97 (2007)
Personnel (Reaffirmation)
AWS AS Committee on Filler Metals and Allied Materials
D.A. Fink, Chair
S. Lee, Ist Vice Chair
J
H.D. Wehr, 2nd Vice Chair
The Lincoln Electric Company
CB&I
Arcos Industries, LLC
R. Gupta, Secretary American Welding Society
J.-M. Blackburn Naval Sea Systems Comman
R.Brown —_RSB Alloy Applications, LLC
J.C. Bundy Hobart Brothers Company
RJ.Christoffel Consultant
D.D.Crockett_ The Lincoln Electric Company
J.J.DeLoach, Ir. Naval Surface Warfare Center
D.A.DelSignore — Consultane
ESAB Welding and Cutting Products
Consultant
J.G. Feldstein
The Lincoln Electric Company
Foster Wheeler North America
S.E.Femee _ESAB Welding and Cuuing Products
G.L.Franke Naval Suface Warfare Center
R.D.Fuchs Boller Thyssen Welding USA, Incorporated
CE Fuetstenau — Lucas-Milhaupt Incorporated
JA.Henning Nuclear Management Company
RM.Henson J, W. Harris Company, Incorporated
M.QJohnson Las Alamas National Laboratory
S.D.Kiser Special Metals
P.J.Konkol Concurrent Technologies Corporation
D.I.-Kotecki The Lincoln Electric Company
L. Kvidahl Northrop Grumman Ship Systems
A.Y.Lau Canadian Welding Bureau
A.S.Laurenson Consultant
W.A.Martila DaimlerChrysler Corporation
Menon Stoody Company
M.T.Merlo Eason Welding Intute
D.R Miller ABS Americas Materials Department
B.Mosier Polymer Corporation
ALK, Mukherjee Siemens Power Generation, Incorporated
CL.Nall Consultant
M.P.Parekh Consultant
R.L-Peaslee Wall Colmonay Corporation
S.D.Reynolds, Je. Consultant
P.K Salvesen Det Norske Veritas (DNV)
K.Sampath Consultant
W.S.Severance SAB Welding and Cuting Products
M.J.Sullivan _NASSCO—National See! & Shipbuilding
R Sutherlin ATI Wah Chang
RA. Swain Euroweld,Limized
R.D.Thomas, Jr. RD. Thomas and Company
K.P.Thomberry Care Medial, Incorporated
L.T.Vemam _AleoTee Wire CorporationANSUAWS AS.17/AS.17m-97 (R2007)
Advisors to the AS Committee on Filler Metal and Allied Material
R.L. Bateman
R.A. Daemen
J.P. Hunt
'S.Imaoka,
M.A. Quintana
E.R Stevens.
E. , Surian
Electromanufacturas, S.A.
Consultant
Consultant
Kobe Steel Limited
The Lincoln Electric Company
Stevens Welding Consulting
National University of Lomas de Zamora
AWS ASB Subcommittee on Carbon and Low Alloy
Steel Electrodes and Fluxes for Submerged Arc Welding
D.D. Crockett, Chair
‘T. Melfi, Vice Chair
R. Gupta, Secretary
H, Beck
HW. Bert
S. Francis
RD. Fuchs
M.J. Ludwig
M.T. Merlo
D.W. Meyer
D.R. Miller
P.J. Nicklas
D. M. Parker
R.A, Swain
The Lincoln Blectric Company
The Lincoln Electric Company
American Welding Society
Harbert's Products, Incorporated
Consultant
Berg Steel Pipe Corporation
Bohler Thyssen Welding USA, Incorporated
Bath Iron Works
Edison Welding Institute
ESAB Welding and Cutting Products
ABS Americas Materials Department
‘Sunset Metal Works
Bechtel Plant Machinery, Incorporated
Euroweld, Limited
Advisors to the ASB Subcommittee on Carbon and Low Alloy
Steel Electrodes and Fluxes for Submerged Are Welding
S. Imaoka
F. A. Rhoades
R.D. Thomas, I.
Kobe Steel Limited
Hobart Brothers Company
RD. Thomas and CompanyANSVAWS AS.17/A5.174-97 (#2007)
Personnel (Original)
AWS AS Committee on Filler Metals
R.A. LaFave, Chaie
J.P. Hunt, Ist Vice Chair
D.A. Fink, 2nd Viee Chair
HLM. Woodward, Secretary
Elliott Company
Consultant
The Lincoln Electric Company
‘The American Welding Sociery
*R.LBateman — Electromanufacturas S.A.
R.S.Brown Carpenter Technology Corporation
J.Caprarola, Jr. Consultant
A.Chatterjee Caterpillar, Incorporated
*L.J.Christensen Consultant
R.J.Christoffel Consultant
C.W.Cox Inco Alloys International, Incorporated
D.D, Crockett The Lincoln Electric Company
*R.A.Daemen Consultant
D.A.DelSignore Consultant
H.W. Ebert Exxon Research and Engineering Company
J.G.Feldstein Foster Wheeler Energy Corporation
S.E.Fenee ESAB Welding and Cutting Products
L.Flasche Haynes International, Incorporated
C.E,Fuerstenau Alloy Ring Service
G. Hallstrom, Jt. Hallstrom Consultants
J.A-Henning Westinghouse
W.S.Howes NEMA
R.B.Kadiyala —Techalloy Maryland, Incorporated
P.I.Konkol Concurrent Technologies Corporation
D.J.Kotecki The Lincoln Electric Company
D.Y.Ku American Bureau of Shipping
N.E.Larson Consultant
A.S.Laurenson Consultant
J.S.Lee Chicago Bridge and tron
G.H.MacShane MAC Associates
W.A.Marttila Crysler Corporation
R.Menon —_Stoody Company
M.T.Metlo Select-Are, Incorporated
ALR Mettes —Ampco Metal, Incorporated
M.D.Morin ABB Power Generation
C.L.Null Department of the Navy
I.Payne Sverdrup Technology, Incorporated
R.L-Peaslee Wall Colmonoy Corporation
E,W. Pickering, Jr. Consultant
M.A.Quintana The Lincoln Electric Company
“HLE.Reid Consultant
*8.D. Reynolds, Jr. Consultant
L.B.Roberts Canadian Welding Bureau
P.K.Salvesen Det Norske Veritas
*AdvinceANSIAWS AS.17IAS.t7M-97 (R007)
AWS AS Committee on Filler Metals (Continued)
JM. Sawhill, Je
AP. Seidler
W, S, Severance
=W. A. Shopp
M.S. Sierdzinski
*R.G. Sim
E.R Stevens
*R_W. Steaiton
RA. Swain
R.D. Thomas, I.
K.P. Thomberry
*R. Timerman
#8, Tsutsumi
L.T. Venam
G. Vytanovieh
TLR. Warren
HD. Wehr
“FJ. Winsor
K.G. Wold
1B.C.Wu
Newport News Shipbuilding
Armco Steel Company
ESAB Welding and Custing Products
Editorial Consultant
ESAB Welding and Custing Products
The Lincoln Electric Company (Australia)
Fisher Controls, Incorporated
Bechtel Corporation
Euroweld, Limited
R.D. Thomas and Company
JW. Harris Co., Incorporated
Conarco, SA.
Kobe Stee! Limited—Welding Division
AlcoTee Wire Company
‘Mobil Technology Company
Ingalls Shipbuilding
Arcos Alloys
Consultant
Siemens Power Corporation
‘Stoody Deloro Stellte, Incorporated
AWS ASB Subcommittee on Carbon and Low-Alloy Steel
Electrodes and Fluxes for Submerged Arc Welding
D.D. Crockett, Chair
HLM, Woodward, Secretary
G.C. Bames,
HA. Beck
W.D. Doty
H.W. Ebert
D.Y.Ku
G.A. Leclair
MT, Merlo
D.W. Meyer
M.D. Morin
D. M, Parker
E. W. Pickering, Jr
F.A. Rhoades
L.F. Roberts
RA. Swain
*R.D. Thomas, J.
*R. Timerman
*S, Tsutsumi
*W.L. Wileox.
*Advinor
‘The Lincoln Electric Company
The American Welding Society
Consultant
Harbert's Products Incorporated
Doty and Associates
Exson Research and Engineering Company
‘American Bureau of Shipping
Consultane
Select Are, Incorporated
ESAB Welding and Cutting Products
ABB Power Generation
MAOMWestinghouse
Consultant
Hobart Brothers Company
Canadian Welding Bureau
Euroweld, Limited
RD. Thomas and Company
Conarco S.A,
Kobe Steel Limited Welding Division
ConsultaneANSUAWS AS.17/AS.17M-97 (R2007)
Foreword
This foreword is not prt of ANSUAWS AS.IT/AS.ITM-97 (R2007), Specification for Carbon Steel
Electrodes and Fluxes for Submerged Arc Welding, buts included for informational purposes only
‘This is the fifth revision of the document originally issued in 1965. That document was issued jointly by the Ameri-
‘can Welding Society and the American Society for Testing and Materials. The practice of issuing filler metal specifica
tions as joint AWS/ASTM documents was discontinued shortly after the original version of this specification was
issued. The 1969 revision, published by AWS, was accepted by the American National Standards Institute as an ANS]
standard. Subsequent revisions have become ANSV/AWS standards.
‘This document is the first ofthe AS.17 specifications which is a combined specification providing for classification
utilizing a system based upon U.S. Customary Units or utilizing a system based upon the International System of Units
(SI). The measurements are not exact equivalents; therefore, each system must be used independently ofthe other, with-
‘out combining values in any way. In selecting rational metric units, ANSVAWS A1.1, Metric Procedure Guide for the
Welding Industry, is used where suitable. Tables and Figures make use of both U.S. Customary and $I Units, which,
withthe application of the specified tolerances, provides for interchangeability of products in both U.S. Customary and
SI Units. Paragraphs, Tables, and Figures which carry the suffix letter “U” are applicable only to those products classified
to the system based upon U.S. Customary Units under the AS.17 specification. Those which carry the suffix letter “M"
ae applicable only to those products classified to the system based upon the International System of Units (SI), under
the AS.17M specification.
‘The only significant change in this reaffirmed specification is updating of thelist of “AWS Filler Metal Specifications
‘and Related Documents” atthe end of this document. An additional editorial change was the deletion of “of Figure $”
from 9.1.2, second column, third line, between the words “specimen” and “or” as ths figure had been deleted from the
AWS AS.I7/AS.17M-97 edition.
Document Development
AWS AS.I7-65T __Tentaive Specifications for Bare Mild Steel Electrades and Flutes for Submerged Are Welding
ASTM A5S8-65T
AWS AS.17-69 Specification for Bare Mild Steel Blectrodes and Fluxes for Submerged Arc Welding
‘ANSI W3.17-1973
ANSVAWS AS.17-77 Specification for Bare Carbon Mild Steel Electrodes and Fluxes for Submerged Are Welding
ANSUAWS A5.17-80 Specification for Carbon Steel Electrodes and Fluxes for Submerged Are Welding
ANSUAWS A5.17-89 Specification for Carbon Steel Electrodes and Fluxes for Submerged Arc Welding
‘Comments and suggestions for improvement of this standard are welcome. They should be addressed to the Secre-
tary, AWS AS Committee on Filler Metals, American Welding Society, $50 N'W. LeJeune Road, Miami, FL 33126.
‘The welding terms used inthis specification shall be interpreted in accordance with the definitions given in the latest
dition of ANSVAWS 3.0, Standard Welding Terms and Definitions.ANSVAWS AS.17/A8.17M497 (R2007)
‘This page is intentionally blankANSUAWS AS.17/AS.174-97 (R2007)
Table of Contents
Personnel (Reaffirmation)
Personnel (Original)
Foreword ..
List of Tables. '
List of Figures. ponent
1. Scope,
Part A—General Requirements
2. Normative References.
3. Classification,
4. Acceptance.
S. Certification. :
6. Units of Measure and Rounding-Off Procedure
Part B—Tests, Procedures, and Requirements
7. Summary of Tests...
8 Retest.
9. Weld Test Assemblies...
10. Chemical Analysis.
AL. Radiographic Test...
12. Tension Test
13. Impact Test ' os
14. Diffusible Hydrogen Test. a : 3B
Part C—Manufacture, Identification, and Packaging 4
15, Method of Manufacture. 4
16, Electrode Requirements. 14
17. Flux Requirements. 7
‘Annex A (Informative) —Guide to AWS Specification for Carbon Steel Electrodes and Fluxes for
Submerged Are Welding. v
‘Annex B (Informative) —Guidelines for the Preparation of Technical Inquiries... 29
AWS Filler Metal Specifications by Material and Welding Process
AWS Filler Metal Specifications and Related Documents.ANSUAWS AS.17/88.17M97 (F2007)
List of Tables
Table
1 Chemical Composition Requirements for Solid Electrodes
2 Chemical Composition Requirements for Composite Electrode Weld Metal
3. Tests Required for Classification
4 Base Metals for Test Assemblies
SU A517 Tension Test Requirements
5M _AS.I7M Tension Test Requirements
GU A5.17 impact Test Requirement
6M. AS.I7M Impact Test Requirements
7 Diffusible Hydrogen Requirements
SU _AS.I7 Standard Electrode Sizes and Tolerances
8M _AS.17M Standard Electode Sizes and Tolerances.
9 Standard Dimensions and Weights
‘AL Comparison of Electrode Designations.
List of Figures
Figure Page No.
IU AS.17 Classification System for U.S. Customary Unit 3
IM AS.L7M Classification System forthe Intemational System of Units (SI) 4
2. Weld Pad for Chemical Analysis of Weld Metal 1
3A Groove Weld Tet Assembly 8
3B Groove Weld Test Welding Parameters. 9
4 Radiographic Standards for Rounded Indications oaANSVAWS AS.17/A5.174-97 (F2007)
Specification for Carbon Steel Electrodes
and Fluxes for Submerged Arc Welding
1. Scope
‘This specification prescribes requirements for the
classification of carbon steel electrodes (both solid and
composite) and fluxes for submerged arc welding,
This documents the fst ofthe AS.17 specifications which
isa combined specification providing for classification uiliz-
ing asystem based upon US. Customary Unis or utlizing a
system based upon the Intemational System of Units (SI). The
measurements are nt exact equivalents; therefore, each sys-
{em must be used independently ofthe other, without combin-
ing values in any way. In selecting ational metic units, ANS
AWS AL, Metric Practice Guide for the Welding Inst,
isused where suitable. Tables and Figures make use ofboth
US. Customary Units and SI Units which, with the appica-
tion of the specified tolerances, provides for interchange-
ability of products in both U.S. Customary and SI Unit.
(1) Paragraphs, tables and figures which carry the suf-
fix letter“U" are applicable only to those products clas
fied to the system based upon US. Customary Units
under the A5.17 specific
(2) Paragraphs, tables and figures which carry the suf-
fix leter “Mare applicable only to those products clas-
sified to the system based upon the Intemational System
of Units (SD, under the AS.17M specification
(Paragraphs, tables and figures which donot have ether
the suffix letter “U" or the sufix leter “MI” are applicable
to those products classified under either the US. Custom-
ary Units System or the International System of Units (SD,
Part A
General Requirements
2. Normative References
2.1,The following ANSVAWS standards! are referenced
in the mandatory sections ofthis document
1. AWS standards are published by the American Welding
Society, $50 N.W. Leleune Road, Miami, FL 33126,
(I) ANSVAWS ALLL, Metric Practice Guide for the
Welding Indusey,
(2) ANSUAWS A433, Standard Methods for Determi-
rnation of the Diffusible Hydrogen Content of Martensi-
lie, Bainitc, and Ferritie Steel Weld Metal Produced by
Are Welding.
G)ANSUAWS AS.O1, Filler Metal Procurement
Guidelines.
(8) ANSUAWS AS.1, Specification for Carbon Steel
Electrodes for Shielded Metal Are Welding.
(5) ANSVAWS B40, Standard Methods for Mechani-
eal Testing of Welds.
22 The following ASTM standards? are referenced in
the mandatory sections ofthis document:
(1) ASTM A29/A29M, Specification for Sel Bars,
Carbon and Alloy, Hot-Wrought and Cold-Finished.
Q) ASTM A36/A36M, Specification for Carbon
Structural See.
G) ASTM A28S/A285M, Specification for Pressure
Vessel Plates, Carbon Steel, Low. and intermediate-
Tensile Srengih
(4) ASTM ASIS/ASISM, Specification for Pressure
Vessel Plates, Carbon Steel, for Intermediate- and
Higher-Temperature Service.
(5) ASTM ASIGIASI6M, Specification for Pressure
Fessel Plates, Carbon Steel, for Moderate- and Lower-
Temperature Service.
(6) ASTM DS-6, SAE HS-1086, Metals and Alloys
inthe Unified Numbering System.
(ASTM E29, Practice for Using Significant
Digits in Test Data to Determine Conformance with
Specifications.
(8) ASTM E142, Method for Controling Quality of
Radiographic Testing.
2 ASTM standards ae published by the American Society for
“Testing and Materials, 100 Barr Harbor Drive, West Consho-
hocken, PA 19428-2955,
1ANSUAWS AS.17/AS.17M97 (R2007)
(9) ASTM E350, Test Methods for Chemical Analysis
of Carbon Steel, Low Alloy Stel, Silicon Electrical Steel,
Ingot Iron and Wrought Iron
23 The following 1SO standards? are referenced in the
‘mandatory section of this document.
(I)1SO 864, Are Welding—Solid and Tubular Cored
Wires which Deposit Carbon and Carbon-Manganese
Stce!—Dimensions of Wires, Spools, Rims and Coils.
3. Classification
3.1U The welding electrodes and fluxes covered by the
[AS.17 specification utilize a classification system based
upon US. Customary Units and are classified according
to the following:
(1) The mechanical properties of the weld metal ob-
tained with a combination ofa particular fix and a par
ticular clasifcation of electrode as specified in Tables
SU and 6U,
(2) The condition of heat treatment in which those
propeties are obtained, as specified in 9.4 (and shown in
Figure 1),
(3) The chemical composition of the electrode (for
solid electrodes) as specified in Table 1, or the weld
metal produced with a particular ux (for comp.
clectodes) a specified in Table 2.
31M The welding electrodes and fluxes covered by the
‘AS.I7M. specification utilize a classification system
‘based upon the International System of Units (SI) and are
classified according to the following:
(1) The mechanical properties of the weld metal ob-
tained with a combination of a particular flux and a par-
ticular classification of electrode, as specified in Tables
‘SM and 6M.
(2) The condition of heat treatment in which those
properties are obtained, as specified in 9.4 (and shown in
Figure IM)
(3) The chemical composition of the electrode (for
solid electrodes) as specified in Table 1, or the weld
‘metal produced with a particular flux (for composite
electrodes) as specified in Table 2.
32 Solid electrodes classified under one classification
shall not be classified under any other classification in
this specification, except that solid electrodes meeting
the chemical composition requirements of both the ELS
and EL12 classifications (Table 1) may be given both
classifications. Composite electrodes may be classified
under more than one classification when used with dif-
3,180 standards are published by the International Organiza
tion for Standardization, 1, ae de Varembé, Case postale 56,
(CH-12H Geneva 20, Switzerland,
ferent fluxes. Fluxes may be classified under any number
of classifications, for weld metal in either or both the as-
welded and postweld heat-treated conditions, using dif-
ferent electrode classifications. Flux-electrode combina
tions may be classified under AS.I7 with US,
Customary Units, AS.17M using the Intemational Sys-
tem of Units (SI), or both. Flux-clectrode combinations
classified under both AS.17 and AS.I7M must meet all
requirements for classification under each system. The
classification systems are shown in Figures 1U and IM.
33 The electrodes and fluxes classified under this speci-
fication are intended for submerged arc welding, but that
is not to prohibit their use with any other process for
Which they are found suitable.
4, Acceptance
Acceptance of the electrodes and fluxes shall be in ac-
cordance with the provisions of the latest edition of
ANSI/AWS A5.01, Filler Metal Procurement Guidelines
(see Annex 3).
5. Certification
By affixing the AWS specification and classification
designations to the packaging or the classification to the
product, the manufacturer certifies that the product meets
the requirements of this specification (see Annex Ad).
6. Units of Measure and Rounding-
Off Procedure
6.1 This specifieation makes use of both US. Customary
Units and the International System of Units (SI). The
‘measurements are not exact equivalents; therefore, each
system must be used independently of the other without
combining in any way. The specification with the desig-
nation AS.17 uses US. Customary Units. The specifica
tion with the designation AS.17M uses SI Units. The
later are shown in appropriate columns inthe Tables or
Figures or are shown within brackets {] when used inthe
text, Figures in parentheses (), following the U.S. Cus-
tomary Units, are calculated equivalent SI values for the
specified dimensions. Figures in brackets [] following
US. Customary Units used inthe text, are rational SI
Units
6.2 For the purpose of determining conformance with
this specification, an observed or calculated value shall
‘be rounded to the nearest 1000 psi for tensile and yield
strength for AS.17 {to the nearest 10 MPa for tensile and
2ANSVAWS AS.17/AS.174-97 (2007)
MANDATORY CLASSIFICATION DESIGNATORS*
Indicates a submerged are welding flux.
Indicates that the welding flux being classified is made solely from crushed slag or is a
blend of crushed slag with unused (virgin) flux. Omission ofthe “S” indicates thatthe lux
being classified is viegin flux.
Indicates the minimum tensile strength (in increments of 10 000 psi) of weld metal depos-
ited with the ux and some specific classification of electrode under the welding condi-
tions specified in Figure 3. For example, when the designator is 7, the tensile requirement
is 70 000 10 95 000 psi (see Table SU).
Designates the condition of heat treatment in which the tests were conducted: “A” for as-
welded and “P” for postweld heat trated, The time and temperature of the PWHT are
specified in 9.4
Indicates @ temperature in °F at or above which the impact strength of the weld metal
referred to above meets or exceeds 20 ft-lbf (See Table 6U).
Classification ofthe electrode used in producing the weld metal referred to above. The let-
ter “E” in the first position indicates electrode. The letter “C," when present in the second
position, indicates thatthe electrode is a composite electrode (refer to Table 2 for classifi-
cations). Omission of the “C” indicates that the electrode is a solid electrode (refer to
‘Table | for classifications).
PSXXX- EOXKX: H
OPTIONAL SUPPLEMENTAL DESIGNATORS®
{Optional supplemental diffusible hydrogen designator (see Table 7.
* The combination of these designators constitutes the lux-electrode classification.
These designators are optional and do not constitute a pat of the flux-electrode classification
Examples
F7A6-EMI2K is a complete designation for a flux-electrode combination. It refers to flux that will produce weld
‘metal which, in the as-welded condition, will have a tensile strength of 70 000 to 95 000 psi and Charpy V-notch im-
pact strength of atleast 20 ft-Ibf at -60°F when produced with an EMI2K electrode under the conditions called for in
this specification. The absence of an “S” in the second position indicates thatthe flux being classified is a virgin flux.
FTP4-EC| is a complete designation fora fux-composite electrode combination when the trade name ofthe electrode
used in the classification is indicated as well (see 17.4.1(3)] It refers toa virgin flux that will produce weld metal
‘with that electrode which, in the postweld heat treated condition, will have a tensile strength of 70 000 to 95 000 psi
‘and Charpy V-notch energy of atleast 20 f-Ibf at~40°F under the conditions called for in this specification
Figure 1U—AS.17 Classification System for U.S. Customary Units
3ANSUAWS AS.17/AS.17M.97 (R2007)
PSXXX- BORN: HX
MANDATORY CLASSIFICATION DESIGNATORS*
Indicates a submerged are welding flux.
Indicates that the welding flux being classified is made solely from crushed slag or is a
blend of crushed slag with unused (virgin) flux. Omission ofthe “S” indicates that the lux
being classified is virgin flux.
Indicates the minimum tensile strength [in increments of 10 megapascals (MPa)] of weld
‘metal deposited withthe flux and some specific classification of electrode under the weld-
ing conditions specified in Figure 3. For example, when this designator is 43, the tensile
requirement is 430 to 560 MPa (sce Table SM).
Designates the condition of heat treatment in which the tests were conducted: “A” for as-
‘welded and “P” for postweld heat treated, The time and temperature of the PWHT are
specified in 94,
Indicates a temperature in °C ator above which the impact strength of the weld metal re-
ferred to above meets or exceeds 27 J (See Table 6M).
Classification ofthe electrode used in producing the weld metal referred to above, The let-
ter “E” in the first position indicates electrode. The letter “C,” when present in the second
position, indicates thatthe electrode is a composite electrode (refer to Table 2 for classifi-
cations). Omission of the “C” indicates that the electrode is a solid electrode (refer to
‘Table | for classifications).
OPTIONAL SUPPLEMENTAL DESIGNATORS*
{ optional supplemental diffusible hydrogen designator (see Table 7)
ion ofthese designators constitutes the flux-electrode classification,
ators are optional and do not constitute a pat of the lux-electrode classification,
Examples
F43A2-EMI2K is a complete designation for @ flux-electrode combination. It refer to a flux that will produce weld
‘metal which, in the as-welded condition, will have a tensile strength of 430 to S60 MPa and Charpy V-notch impact,
strength of at least 27 J at ~20°C when produced with an EM12K electrode under the conditions called for in this
specification. The absence of an “S” in the second position indicates that the flux being classified isa virgin flux.
F48P6-EC1 is a complete designation for a flux-composite electrode combination when the trade name of the elec-
trode used in the classification i
‘metal with that electrode which, in the postweld heat treated condition, will have a tensile strength of 480 to 660 MPa
‘and Charpy V-notch energy of at least 27 J at -60°C under the conditions called for inthis specification.
indicated as well [see 17.4.1(3)]. It refers to a virgin flux that will produce weld
Figure 1M—AS.17M Classification System for the International System of Units (SI)
4ANSVAWS A5.17/A5.17M.97 (2007)
Table 1
Chemical Composition Requirements for Solid Electrodes
‘wt percent
Electrode UNS
Classification Numbert c Ma Si s P cut wi
‘Low-Manganese Electrodes
ELS Ko1008 ——«0.10——«025-060 007 0.030 0.030 038 =
ELK K01009 == 0.10-—0.28-060 0410-025 0.030, 0.020 038 =
ELIZ Ko1012 004-018 025-060 0.10, 0.030 0.030 03s =
‘Medium. Manganese Electrodes
EMNIK Ko 007-015 100-150 065-085 0030 0.025 035 =
eMI2 KOII2 006-015 080-125 0.10 0.030 0.030 035 —
EMI2K KOII3 005-015 080-125 010-035 0030, 0.030 03s —
EMI3K KOI3I3 006-0.16 090-140 038-075 0030, 0.030 03s =
EMMK KOI3I4— 006-0.19 090-140 035-075 002s 0.025 035 003-017
EMISK KOISIS 010-020 080-125 0410-035 0030, 0.030 038, =
High-Manganese Electrodes
EHIOK KoI2I0 0701S 130-170 008-025 0025 0s 035 =
EHIK KIO 006-015 140-185 080-118 0030 0.020 038 =
EHIK KOI2I3 006-015 150-200 020-065 0025 0.025 038 =
EMM KI385__0.10-020 170-220 0.10, 0.030 0.030 035 =
EG. Not Specified
"The lecade sal be analyzed forthe specific clement for which values ae shown in his ble the presence of ter elements nated nthe
ours of tis work, the amour hoe elements shal be delenit ensure Ut tet tl (excluding on) does nol excl 050 percent
Single values are maximum,
« SADIASTM Unified Numbering System for Metals and Alloy.
“The copper lini includes any copercoting tat may be pied tothe else,
Table 2
n Requirements for Composite Electrode Weld Metal
Chemical Composi
wt, percent =
Electrode uns
Classification Number! © Ma Si s P cu
ECI ‘wos04t on 180) 090) 0.035 0.035 035
ECG ‘Not Specified
The weld meal sal We anand or epic clemens or wish vale ore shown nis ale he pesos of oe clenens nde, a
theca of his werk, th ont fh cements sal dcermine enue tha he oa scaling won) ds mene 0 SO pre
Sng vues re maxim
‘Arable forte weld pad in Fig 2, he supe for cena ansis may be ken fo he ede etn ofthe acted esion et
Specimen (ee (2) or fom &coneaponding location or any lotion above nthe weld meta inthe oove weld in Fig Incase apt,
evel pa sal Be te rece method
+ SAEASTM Unified Nantrng Sem fo Mets and Alloys
5ANSVAWS AS.17IAS.174-97 (R2007)
yield strength for AS.17M)] and to the nearest unit in the
last right-hand place of figures used in expressing the
limiting values for other quantities in accordance with
the rounding-off method given in ASTM E29, Practice
Jor Using Significant Digits in Test Data to Determine
‘Conformance with Specifications.
Part B
Tests, Procedures,
and Requirements
7. Summary of Tests
‘The tests required for classification of solid elec-
trodes, composite electrodes, and flux-electrode combi
nations are specified in Table 3
1 Electrodes
7.1.1 Solid Electrodes. Chemical analysis of the elec-
trode is the only test required for classification of a solid
electrode under this specification. The chemical analysis,
of the rod stock from which the electrode is made may
also be used, provided the electrode manufacturing pro-
cess does not alter the chemical composition
7.1.2 Composite Electrodes. Chemical analysis of
‘weld metal produced with the composite electrode and a
particular flux isthe only test required for classification
‘of composite electrode under this specific
7.2 Fluxes. The tests specified in Table 3 determine the
mechanical properties and soundness of the weld metal
obtained with a particular flux-electrode combination,
The base metal forthe test assemblies, the welding and
testing procedures to be employed, and the results re-
quired are given in Sections 9 through 13,
1.3 Flux classification is based upon a 5/32 in. (4.0 mm)
electrode size as standard. If this size electrode is not
manufactured, the closest size shall be used for classifi-
cation tests. See Noted of Figure 3B.
8. Retest
Ifthe results of any test fail to meet the requirement,
that test shall be repeated twice. The results of both re-
tests shall meet the requirement. Material, specimens, or
saimples for retest may be taken from the original test as-
sembly or sample or from one or two new test assemblies
‘or samples. For chemical analysis, retest need be only for
those specific elements that failed to meet the test re-
quirement. Ifthe results of one or both retest fail to meet
‘the requirement, the material under test shall be consid-
ered as not meeting the requirements of this specification
for that classification.
{In the event that, during preparation or after comple-
tion of any test, it is clearly determined that prescribed or
proper procedures were not followed in preparing the
weld test assembly or test specimen(s) or in conducting
the test, the test shall be considered invalid, without re-
gard to whether the test was actually completed or
Whether test results met, or failed to meet, the require-
‘ment. That test shall be repeated, following proper pre-
scribed procedures. In this case, the requirement for
doubting the number of test specimens does not apply.
Table 3
Tests Required for Classification
Chemical Analysis Ditusible
Radiographic Tension Impact Hydrogen
AWS Classification Electrode __WeldMel___Test, Test Test Test
All Solid Electrodes Required Not Required Not Required Not Required Not Required Not Required
AllComposit Eletrodes Not Required Required NotRequired Not Required Not Required Not Required
AL Flux-Solid Electrode NotRequired NotRequied Required Required Required* b
Combinations
AllFlux-Composite Electrode Not Required Not Required Required Required Required >
Combinations
* When the "2" pact designator (o impact equrement—Table6U and 6M) used, he Impact Test ino requied
Date iropen est equved only when specified by the purchaser or when the manufac paste sible hyeogen designator on the
abe! (se la Seon A} and AG inthe Ae).
69, Weld Test Assemblies
9.1 Requirements for Classification
9.1.1 Classification of Solid Electrodes. No weld test
assembly is required for classification of solid electrodes.
9.1.2 Classification of Composite Electrodes. The
chemical analysis of weld metal produced with the com-
posite electrode and a particular flux is required for
classification of a composite electrode under this speci-
fication, The weld test assembly, shown in Figure 2,
is used to meet this requirement forthe classification of
‘composite electrodes. Figure 2 is the weld pad test as-
sembly for chemical analysis of weld metal. Asan alter-
native to the weld pad, the sample for chemical analysis
‘of composite electrode weld metal may be taken from the
‘groove weld in Figure 3A. Note ¢ to Table 2 allows the
4 LavERS
HIGH
S PASSES!
LavER
Notes:
1. Wh and thickness ofthe base-metal pate may be any cin
ANSUAWS AS.17/AS.174-97 (2007)
sample for chemical analysis in the case of a composite
electrode to be taken from the reduced section of the
fractured tension test specimen or from a corresponding
location (or any location above it) in the weld metal in
the groove weld in Figure 3A. In case of dispute, the
weld pad shall be the referee method.
9.1.3 Classification of Flux-Electrode Combina-
tions. One groove weld test assembly is required for
cach classification of a flux-solid electrode combination
or a flux-composite electrode combination, This is the
‘groove weld in Figure 3A for mechanical properties and
soundness of weld metal.
9.2 Preparation. Preparation of each weld test assembly
shall be as prescribed in 9.3 and 9.4, The base metal for
the weld pad and groove weld assemblies shall be as
required in Table 4 corresponding to the tests to be con-
Jone eultable for the electrode ameter and current nu
2. Weld beads shal be deposited without csclation. The welding condiions shal be in accordance with the manulacturer’s
recommendations
‘3, Tho rt and last 2. (60 mm ofthe weld length shall be dscarded. The top surface shal be removed, and chemical analyse samples
shall be taken fom the underying metal ofthe fourh layer of he weld pad
Figure 2—Weld Pad for Chemical Analysis of Weld Metal
7ANSUAWS AS A7IA8.17M-97 (R2007)
|= 5° MAXIMUM ALLOWABLE DISTORTION
|=. —_____
| ez pena
POINT AT WHICH
TEMPERATURE IS
MEASURED
The
weo- FMAM
IMPACT ‘ALL-WELD-METAL
SPECIMENS TENSION SPECIMEN
ap be
(A) JOINT CONFIGURATION AND LOCATION OF TEST SPECIMENS.
oo
F
) LOCATION OF IMPACT (C) LOCATION OF ALL-WELD-METAL,
TEST SPECIMENS ‘TENSION TEST SPECIMEN.
Letter Dimensions a mm
v Teng rin) 2 305
1 Thickness tae 25215.
w ‘wth (io) 5 17
v Backup Thickness sine 13415
>. Specimen Conter aes1a2 95210
8 Backup With (in) 2 50
R Foot Opening teins 13415
z Discard (in) 1 2%
Figure 3A—Groove Weld Test Assembly
8ANSUAWS A5.17IA5.17M-97 (R20O7)
Welding Coneltions for Solid Electrodes *=
Electrode Size! Electrode Extension? | Travel Speed
welding | Are
Curent | Volage ipm ]mmisec.| Curent | Preheat _|_Interpass
in, | mm | cAmporeey! | (vote) in mm | (et) | 2055) | Type | Temperature | Temperature!
ans | 16 | 25010950 | 26020 | 1209s | 101 | 12 | 50
vee [| 20 | a00t0400 | 261020 | i2was | rote | 1a | 55
se2_| 24 | s50t0450 | 271090 | verve | tom | a | 60
= [2s [ssowss0 | 271090 | arr | toe | 4 | 60
res_| 28 | a0010800 | 271090 | are | tom | 1 | 60
= [20 | aoots00 | erioa0 | i112 | asics | is | 68 | Ac.
ve__| 32 | 42510525 | 27090 | 11-12 | ass | ts | 65 | 0G
ether
se2_| 40 | a7ss75 | 271s | 1112 | 2538 | 16 | 70 | polamy
eo-a2sre | 275-a25¢F
(is-t6s°q | (195-165°C)
an6_| 48 | s25t0625 | 271090 | totam | asioss | 17 | 70
= [80 [ssowes0 | rts | torte | ass | 17 | 70
vee | 58 | s7st0675 | 2eiost |tiistors| seo | 18 | 75
= [60 | east0725 | zeios |ristorau| seas | 19 | 00
va | 64 | rootoaoo | zatose | 11202 | seioso | 2 | 85
® Values spect in inches or pm apply to AS.17. Values specified in mm or mise apply to AS.17M.
Those welding candtions are intended for machine or automate welding wih staight progression (no woaving), Woling shall be por
formod in the fat poston. The ist layer shal be produoed in other 1 ot 2 passes. Al other layers shall be produced in 2 of 3 passes
pet layer excep he ast, wich shale produced ino 4 passes. The completed weld shall a east lush wit he surace ofthe ost
pate.
« Welding condtions for compost electrodes shallbe as agreed betwean purchaser and supper.
‘Classification is based on the propertos of weld metal wih 532in. [4.0mm] elcttdes oF the closest size manulactured, i S32 in
[4.0 mn] s not manufactured. The conditions gvan above for sizos oer than 592 in. (4.0 mm are tobe used when classification is
based on those siz0s, or when they are required for lo accoptaneslesing under AS.0%, Filer Mota! Procurement Guidelines (unless
‘other conditions are specified bythe purchaser
4.8 mm, 5.6 mm, and 6.4 mm ate nl included as standard sizes in ISO 864:1988.
* Lower cures may be used forthe fst ayer.
Tho electrode extension isthe contact tube-to-work dstance. When an electrode manulactrer recommends a contact tubo-o-work
stance outside the range shown, that commendation shal be flowed 2 4 in. (85 mm).
incase of dispute, OCEP (crectcurrent-electrode postive) shall be used asthe releree current
"The tat bead shal be produced wih the asserély at ary temperature betwoen 60 and 325°F [15 to 185°C}. Welding shall continue,
bead by bead, untl a tomperature within the iterpass temperature range has been allained. Thereafter, production of subsequent
beads may begin only when the assembly is wihin te interpass temperature range. The point f temperature measurement shall be at
the mid length ofthe fest assembly, appresimately 1 I, [25 mm] fom the weld canterine.
Figure 3B—Groove Weld ‘Test Welding Parameters
9AANSVAWS AS.17IAS.17-97 (R2007)
Table 4
Base Metals for Test Assemblies
Test Assembly ‘Type [ASTM Specification®| UNS Number
‘Weld Pad for Chemical Analysis Carbon Steel ‘A29 Grade 1015 Gi0150
‘A29 Grade 1020, G10200
36 02600
A28S Grade A Ko1700
‘AQ8S Grade B K02200,
‘A285 Grade C Ko2801
‘A285 Grade D 02702
ASIS Grade 70 03101
‘A516 Grade 70 Ko2700
Groove Weld of Figure 3 Carbon Steel A36 02600
A285 Grade A 01700
‘DKS Grade B 02200
‘ADK Grade C 02801
‘A2BS Grade D 02702
ASIS Grade 70 Ko3101
‘A516 Grade 70 K02700
5 Chemically equivalent sel maybe wed n cae of dispte, ASTM AO sal be used ashe eee sel
"as clasfied in ASTM DS-55, SAE HS-i Metale and Alloys inthe Unified Numbering System,
ducted and shall meet the requirements of the appropriate
ASTM specification shown in Table 4, or an equivalent
specification. Testing of the assemblies shall be as pre
scribed in Sections 10 through 13.
9.3 Weld Pad. For composite electrodes only, a weld pad
shall be prepared as specified in Figure 2, except when
cither alternative in 9.1.2 is selected, Base metal of any
convenient size, and of the type specified in Table 4,
shall be used as the base metal for the weld pad. The sur-
face of the base metal on which the filler metal is depos-
ited shall be clean. The pad shall be welded in the flat
position, three passes per layer, four layers high, using
the flux for which classification of the composite elec-
trode is intended. The preheat temperature shall not be
less than 60°F [15°C] and the interpass temperature shall
not exceed 325°F [165°C]. The slag shall be removed
after each pass. The pad may be quenched in water be-
tween passes but shall be dry before the start of each
pass. Testing of this assembly shall be as specified in
Section 10, Chemical Analysis.
9.4 Groove Weld for Mechanical Properties and
Soundness. For classification ofa flux- electrode combi-
nation, a test assembly shall be prepared and welded as
specified in Figure 3A using base metal of the appropri-
ate type specified in Table 4, Prior to welding, the assem-
bly may be preset so that the welded joint will be
sufficiently flat to facilitate removal of the test speci-
mens. As an altemative, restraint or a combination of re~
straint and presetting may be used to keep the welded
Jjint within 5 degrees of plane, A welded test assembly
that is more than 5 degrees out of plane shall be dis-
carded, Straightening of the test assembly is prohibited,
Testing shall be as specified in Sections 10 through 13,
withthe assembly in either the as-welded or the postweld
heat-treated condition, according to the classification of
the weld metal (See Figures 1U and 1M),
‘When the tests are to be conducted in each condition
(as-welded and postweld heat treated), two such assem-
blies, or one single assembly of sufficient length to pro-
vide the specimens required for both conditions, shall be
prepared. In the latter case, the single assembly shall be
cut transverse to the weld into two pieces; one of the
pieces shall be tested in the as-welded condition, and the
‘other piece shall be heat treated prior to testing.
‘Any test assembly to be heat treated shall be heat
treated at 1150 + 25°F (620 + 15°C] for one hour (-0,
+15 minutes). The furnace shall be at a temperature not
higher than 600°F (315°C) when the test assembly is
placed in it. The heating rate, from that point to the 1150
++ 25°F [620 + 15°C] holding temperature, shall not ex-
ceed 40°F per hour [220°C per hour]. When the holding
time has been completed, the assembly shall be allowed
to cool in the furnace to a temperature below 600°
[315°C] at a rate not exceeding 350° per hour (195°C
per hour). The assembly may be removed from the fur=
race at any temperature below 600°F [315°C] and al-
Towed to cool in still ar, to room temperature,
9.5 Diffusible Hydrogen. In those cases in which an op-
tional supplemental diffusible hydrogen designator is to
be added to the flux-electrode classification designation,
10four diffusible hydrogen test assemblies shall be pre
pared, welded, and tested as specified in Section 14, Dif
fusible Hydrogen Test.
10. Chemical Analysis
10.1 For solid electrodes, a sample of the electrode shall
be prepared for chemical analysis. The rod stock from
which the electrode is made may also be used for chemi-
cal analysis, provided the electrode manufacturing pro-
cess does not alter the chemical composition. Solid
electrodes, when analyzed for elements that are present
in a coating (copper flashing, for example), shall be ana-
lyzed without removing the coating. When the electrode
is analyzed for elements other than those in the coating,
the coating shall be removed ifits presence affects the re-
sults of the analysis for other elements. Rod stock may
be analyzed prior to coating for those elements not added
inthe coating, In this case, the analysis of the elements in
the electrode coating must be made on the finished
electrode,
10.2 Composite electrodes shall be analyzed in the form
‘of weld metal. The sample for analysis shall be taken
from weld metal obtained with the electrode and the flux
with which itis classified. The sample shall come from
the weld pad in Figure 2, from the reduced section of the
fractured tension test specimen (see 12.1), or from a cor-
responding location (or any location above it in the weld
metal in the groove weld in Figure 3. In case of dispute,
the weld pad shall be the referee method.
‘The top surface of the pad described in 9.3 and shown
in Figure 2 shall be removed and discarded, and a sample
for analysis shall be obtained from the underlying metal
of the fourth layer of the weld pad by any appropriate
mechanical means. The sample shall be free of slag.
‘The alternatives to the weld pad outlined above and in
9.1.2 shall be prepared for analysis by any appropriate
mechanical means.
10.3 The sample shall be analyzed by accepted analytical
‘methods. The referee method shall be the procedure in
the latest edition of ASTM E350, Testing Methods for
Chemical Analysis of Carbon Steel, Low-Alloy Stel, Sil»
icon Electrical Stel, Ingot Iron, and Wrought Iron
10.4 The results of the analysis shall meet the require-
ments of Table 1 or 2, as applicable, for the classification
of electrode under test
11. Radiographic Test
11.1 The groove weld described in 9.4 and shown in Fig-
ure 3A shall be radiographed to evaluate the soundness
ANSVAWS AS.17/A5.176.97 (F2007)
of the weld metal. In preparation for radiography, the
backing shall be removed, and both surfaces of the weld
shall be machined or ground smooth and flush with the
original surfaces of the base metal. Both surfaces of the
test assembly, in the area of the weld, shall be smooth
enough to avoid difficulty in interpreting the radiograph.
11.2 The weld shall be radiographed in accordance with
ASTM E142, Method for Controlling Quality of Radio-
graphic Testing. The quality level of inspection shall be
221
113 The soundness of the weld metal meets the require-
ments of this specification ifthe radiograph shows the
following
(1)No cracks, no incomplete fusion, and no incom
plete penetration
(2) No slag inclusions longer than 5/16 in, [8 mm] or
no groups of slag. inclusions inline that have an agare-
gate length greater than 1 in. 25 mm] in a 12 in, [300
ram] length except when the distance between the sue
cessive inclusions exceeds 6 times the length of the long-
est inclusion in the group, and
(3) No rounded indications in excess of those permite
ted by the radiographic standards in Figure 4
In evaluating the radiograph, 1 in. [25 mm] ofthe weld
‘oneach end ofthe test assembly shall be disregarded.
11.3.1 A rounded indication is an indication (on the
radiograph) whose length is no more than 3 times its
‘width. Rounded indications may be circular, oF irregular
in shape, and they may have tails. The size of a rounded
indication isthe largest dimension of the indication, in-
‘cluding any tal that may be present.
11.3.2 Indications whose largest dimension does not
exceed 1/64 in. (0.4 mm] shall be disregarded. Test as-
semblies with indications larger than the large indica-
tions permitted in the radiographic standards do not meet
the requirements of this specification.
12. Tension Test
12.1 One all-weld-metal standard round tensile speci-
men, as specified in the Tension Tests section of ANSV
AWS B4.0, Standard Methods for Mechanical Testing of
Welds, shall be machined from the groove weld de-
scribed in 9.4 and shown in Figure 3A. The tensile speci-
men shall have a nominal diameter of 0.500 in, [12.5
mm] and a nominal gage length-to-diameter ratio of 4:1.
12.2 The specimen shall be tested in the manner de~
seribed in the tension test section of the latest edition of
ANSVAWS B40, Standard Methods for Mechanical
Testing of Welds.
nANSUAWS AS.17/A8.17M-97 (R2007)
. .
(A) ASSORTED ROUNDED INDICATIONS
‘SIZE PERMITTED IS 1/64 in. 0.4 mm] TO 1/16 in. [1.6 mm]
NUMBER PERMITTED IN ANY 6 in. (150 mm] OF WELD = 18,
WITH THE FOLLOWING RESTRICTIONS:
LARGE: 9164 in. [1.2 mm} TO 1/16 in. [1.6 mm] = 9 PERMITTED.
MEDIUM: 1/32 in. [0.8 mm) TO 3164 in. [1.2 mm] = PERMITTED.
SMALL: 164 in, [04 mma} TO 1/82 in, (0.8 mm] = 10 PERMITTED,
° .
.
. . 0
(8) LARGE ROUNDED INDICATIONS
‘SIZE PERMITTED IS 9/64 in. [1.2 mm] TO 1/16 in [1.6 mm]
NUMBER PERMITTED IN ANY 6 in [150 mm] OF WELD = 8
(C) MEDIUM ROUNDED INDICATIONS
SIZE PERMITTED IS 1/82 in. 0.8 mm) TO 3/64 in. [1.2 mm]
NUMBER PERMITTED IN ANY 6 in (150 mm] OF WELD = 15.
(0) SMALL ROUNDED INDICATIONS.
SIZE PERMITTED IS 164 in. 0.4 mm} TO 1/82 in, [0.8
NUMBER PERMITTED IN ANY 6 in. [150 mm] OF WELD = 30,
Notes:
,
largest dimension ofthe indication (including ary tal) isthe size of the indication
“The chart which s most representative of he size ofthe rounded indcations in he radiograph ofthe test assembly shall be used for
lished for that filler metal. The manufacturer may do this
by following the procedure given here. When the manu-
facture elects to use the “G” classification, the Commit-
tee on Filler Metals recommends that the manufacturer
still request that a classification be established for that
filler metal, as long as the filler metal is of commercial
significance,
(2) A request to establish a new filler metal classifica-
tion must be submitted in writing, and it needs to provide
sufficient detail to permit the Committee on Filler Metals
or the Subcommittee to determine whether a new classi-
fication or the modification of an existing classification
is more appropriate, and whether either is necessary 10
satisfy the need. The request needs to state the variables
and their limits, for such a classification or modification,
‘The request should contain some indication of the time
by which completion of the new classification or modifi-
cation is needed
(3) The request should be sent to the Secretary of the
Commitee on Filler Metals at AWS Headquarters. Upon
receipt of the request, the Secretary will:
(a) Assign an identifying number to the request
‘This number will include the date the request was
received,
(b)Confirm receipt of the request and give the
identification number to the person who made the
request.
(6) Send a copy of the request to the Chair of the
‘Committee on Filler Metals and the particular Subcom=
mittee involved
(a) File the original request.
(@)Add the request to the log of outstanding
requests
(4) All necessary action on each request will be com-
pleted as soon as possible. If more than 12 months lapse,
the Secretary shall inform the requestor of the status of
the request, with copies to the Chairs of the Committee
and the Subcommittee. Requests still outstanding after
18 months shall be considered not to have been answered
ina “timely manner” and the Secretary shall report these
to the Chair of the Committee on Filler Metals, for
action.
(5) The Secretary shall include a copy of the log of all
requests pending and those completed during the preced-
ing year with the agenda for each Committee on Filler
Metals meeting, Any other publication of requests that
hhave been completed will be atthe option of the Ameri-
‘can Welding Society, as deemed appropriate.
A2.3 Classification of Fluxes. Fluxes are classified on
the basis of the mechanical properties of the weld metal
they produce, with some certain classification of elee-
trode, under the specific test conditions called for in Part
B ofthis specification.
A23.1U As examples of AS.17 U.S. Customary Unit
classifications, consider the following:
PTA2-EHIS
FS6A0-EMI3K
F7P6-EMIIK
FIP4-EC]
‘The prefix “F” designates an unused (virgin) lux. The
prefix “FS” designates a flux that is made solely from
crushed slag or is a blend of crushed slag with virgin
‘lux, This is followed by a single digit representing the
‘minimum tensile strength required of the weld metal in
10 000 psi increments.
When the letter “A” follows the strength designator,
indicates that the weld metal was tested (and is classi-
fied) inthe as-welded condition. When the leter “P” fol-
lows the strength designator, it indicates that the weld
‘metal was tested (and is classified) after postweld heat
20treatment called for in the specification. The digit that
follows the “A” or “P" willbe a number or the letter “Z.”
This digit refers tothe impact strength ofthe weld meta.
Specifically, it designates, on the Fahrenheit scale, atem-
perature at (and above) which the weld metal meets, or
exceeds, the required 20 f bf Charpy V-notch impact
strength (except for the letter “Z,” which indicates that
no impact requirement is specified—see Table 6U).*
‘These mechanical property designations are followed by
the designation of the electrode used in classifying the
flux (see Tables 1 and 2). The suffix (EHI4, EMI2K,
ECI, etc) included after the hyphen refers tthe elec-
twode classification with which the ux will deposit weld
metal that meets the specified mechanical properties
when tested as called for inthe specification,
A23.1M As examples of AS.17M International Sys-
tem of Units (SI) classifications, consider the following:
F43A3-EMI3K
FS43A0-EMIIK
PA8PS-EHI2K,
The prefix “F" designates a virgin flux. The prefix
“FS” designates a flux that is made solely from crushed
slag or isa blend of crushed slag with virgin flux. This is
followed by two digits representing the minimum tensile
strength required ofthe weld metal in 10 MPa increment
‘When the leter “A” or “P” follows the strength desig-
nator, it indicates, a it does in the AS.17 classification
system, the weld metal was tested (and is classified) in
either the asewelded (A) oF postweld heat-treated (P)
condition. The digit that follows the “A” or “P” willbe a
number oF the letter “Z." This digit refers to the impact
strength ofthe weld metal
Specifically, it designates, onthe Celsius scale, a tem
perature at (and above) which the weld metal meets, or
‘exceeds, the required 27 J Charpy V-notch impact
strength (except for the letter “Z," which indicates that
no impact requirement is specified—see Table 6M).
These mechanical property designations are followed by
the designation ofthe electrode used in classifying the
flux (see Tables 1 and 2). The sufix (EMI3K, EHI2K,
tc.) included after the hyphen refers to the electrode
classification with which the flux will deposit weld metal
that meets the specific mechanical properties when tested
as called for in the specification
A2.3.2It should be noted that flux of any specific
trade designation may have many classifications. The
4. Note that except for digit “4” the same designator for impact
strength in Tables GU and 6M signify different temperatures.
For example, "6" in Table 6U signifies a maximum test temper-
ature of -60°F, whereas the same designator in Table 6M signi-
fies. a maximum test temperature of -60°C, equivalent to -76°F.
ANSVAWS A5.17/A5.17M.97 (72007)
number is limited only by the number of different elec-
‘rode classifications and the condition of heat treatment
{as-welded and postweld heat treated) with which the
flux can meet the classification requirements. The flux
marking lists a least one, and may list all, classifications
to which the flux conforms. It should also be noted that
the specific usability (or operating) characteristics of var-
ious fluxes of the same classification may differ in one
respect or another.
‘A2.3.3 Solid electrodes having the same classification
are interchangeable when used with a specific flux; com-
posite electrodes may not be.
jon System. An interna-
tional system for designating welding filler metals is
under development by the Intemational Institute of
Welding (IIW) for use in future specifications to be is-
‘sued by the Intemational Standards Organization (ISO).
‘Table AI shows the proposed designations for ste! filler
metals. In that system, the initial “S” designates a solid
‘wire or rod followed by a fourdigit number. Composite
Wires are designated with an initia “7.”
A3. Acceptance
Acceptance of all welding materials classified under
this specification is in accordance with the latest edition
of ANSVAWS AS.01, as the specification states. Any
testing a purchaser requires of the supplier, for material
shipped in accordance with this specification, shall be
clearly stated in the purchase order, in accordance with
ANSV/AWS AS.01
Table At
Comparison of Electrode Designations
AWS Classification
Proposed 150 No*
ELS 1100
ELK su10
ELIZ 1000
EMIIK 2030
EMI2 2000
EMI2K s2010
EMI3K 2020
EMIK 2021
EMISK sm2i0
EHIOK. 33000
EHIK $3030
EH 2010
EH 4000
"Based on HW Doo. XU-1232.91
aANSVAWS AS.17/A5.174.97 (R007)
In the absence of any such statement in the purchase
‘order, the supplier may ship the material with whatever
testing is normally conducted on material of that class
fication, as specified in Schedule F, Table 1, of ANSI/
AWS ASI. Testing in accordance with any other
Schedule in that Table must be specifically required by
the purchase order. In such cases, acceptance of the
material shipped will be in accordance with those
requirements.
Ad. Certification
‘The act of placing the AWS specification and clasi
cation designations on the packaging enclosing the prod-
uct, ofthe classification on the product itself, constitutes
the supplier’s (manufacturer's) certification thatthe prod-
uct meets all ofthe requirements ofthat specification.
The only testing requirement implicit in this certifica-
tion i that the manufacturer has actually conducted the
tests required by the specification on material that is rep-
resentative of that being shipped and that the material
‘met the requirements ofthe specification. Representative
‘material, in this cas, is any production run of that classi-
fication using the same formulation,
“Certification” is not to be construed to mean that
tests of any kind were necessarily conducted on samples
of the specific material shipped. Tests on such material
‘may or may not have been made. The basis forthe ceri-
fication required by the specification isthe classification
test of “representative material” cited above, and the
“Manufacturer's Quality Assurance System” in ANSI
AWS AS.OL
AS. Ventilation During Welding
/AS.1 The following are five major factors which govern
the quantity of fumes to which welders and welding op-
erators can be exposed during welding
(1) Dimensions of the space in which welding is done
(ith special regard tothe height of the ceiling)
(2) Number of welders and welding operators work-
ing in that space
(3) Rate of evolution of fumes, gases, or dust accord-
ing othe material and processes involved
(4) The proximity of the welders or welding operators
to the fumes as they issue fom the welding zone, and to
the gases and dusts inthe space in which the welders or
‘welding operators are working
(5) The ventilation provided tothe space in which the
‘welding is done
AS.2 American National Standard ANSVASC 749.1,
Safewy in Welding, Cuting, and Allied Processes (pub-
lished by the American Welding Society), discusses the
‘ventilation that is required during welding and should be
referred to for details, Attention is particularly drawn to
the section dealing with ventilation.
A6. Welding Considerations
AG. Types of Flux. Submerged are welding fluxes are
tranulr, fusible mineral compounds of various propor-
ons and quantities, manufactured by any of several di
ferent methods. In addition, some fluxes may contain
intimately mixed metallic ingredients to deoxidize the
‘weld pool. Any flux is likely to produce weld metal of
somewhat different composition from that of the elec-
tuode used with it due to chemical reactions inthe ae and
sometimes fo the presence of metalic ingredients inthe
flux. change in ar voltage during welding will change
the quantity of flux interacting with a given quantity of
electrode and may, therefore, change the composition of
the weld metal. This later change provides a means of
describing fluxes as “neutral,” “active,” or “alloy”
AGLI Neutral Fluxes. Neutral fluxes are those
which will not produce any significant change in the
weld metal chemical analysis as a result of a large
cchange inthe are voltage, and thus, the arc length.
‘The primary use for neutral fluxes is in multipass
‘welding, especially when the base metal exceeds 1 in
[25 mm] in thickness.
‘Note the following considerations concerning neutral
‘fluxes:
(1) Since neutral fluxes contain little or no deoxidiz~
es, they must rely on the electrode to provide deoxida-
tion. Single-pass welds with insufficient deoxidation on
heavily oxidized base metal may be prone to porosity,
centerline eracking, or both.
(2) While neutral fluxes do maintain the chemical
composition of the weld metal even when the voltage is
changed, itis not always true thatthe chemical composi-
‘of the weld metal is the same as the chemical com-
position of the electrode used. Some neutral fluxes
decompose in the heat of the are and release oxygen, re-
sulting in a lower carbon value in the weld metal than the
carbon content of the electrode ‘itself: Some neutral
fluxes contain manganese silicate which can decompose
inthe heat ofthe are to add some manganese and silicon
to the weld metal even though no metalic manganese or
silicon was added to these particular fluxes. These
‘changes in the chemical composition of the weld metal
are fairly consistent, even when there are large changes:
in voltage.
(3) Even when a neutral flux is used to maintain the
weld metal chemical composition through a range of
‘welding voltages, weld properties such as strength level
n‘and impact properties can change because of changes in
other welding parameters such as depth of fusion, heat
input, and number of passes.
AG.1.2 Active Fluxes. Active fluxes are those which
contain small amounts of manganese, silicon, or both.
‘These deoxidizers are added to the flux to provide im-
proved resistance to porosity and weld cracking caused
by contaminants on or in the base metal,
‘The primary use for active fluxes is to make single-
pass welds, especially on oxidized base metal. Note the
following considerations concerning active fluxes:
(1) Since active fluxes do contain some deoxidizers
the manganese, silicon, or both, in the weld metal wi
vvary with changes in are voltage. An increase in manga
nese or silicon increases the strength and hardness ofthe
‘weld metal in multipass welds but may lower the impact
properties. For this reason, the voltage may need to be
‘more tightly controlled for multipass welding with active
‘luxes than when using neutral fluxes.
(2)Some fluxes are more active than others. This
‘means they offer more resistance to porosity due to base-
‘metal surface oxides in single-pass welds than a flux
whichis less active, but may pose more problems in mul-
tipass welding.
AG.1.3 Alloy Fluxes. Alloy fluxes are those which
cean be used with a carbon steel electrode to make alloy
weld metal. The alloys for the weld metal are added as
ingredients in the flux.
‘The primary use for alloy fluxes is to weld low-alloy
steels and for handfacing. As such, they are outside ofthe
scope of this specification. See the latest edition of
ANSI/AWS A5.23/A5.23M, Specification for Low-Alloy
Steel Electrodes and Fluxes for Submerged Arc Welding,
for a more complete discussion of alloy fluxes.
.A6.1.4 Wall Neutrality Number. The Wall Neutral-
ity Number (N) is a convenient relative measure of flux
neutrality. The Wall Neutrality Number addresses fluxes
and electrodes for welding carbon steel with regard tothe
weld metal manganese and silicon content. It does not
address alloy fluxes. For a flux-electrode combination to
be considered neutral, it should have a N of 35 or les.
‘The lower the number, the more neutral isthe flux.
Determination of the Wall Neutrality Number can be
done in accordance with the following:
(1)A. weld pad of the type shown in Figure 2 is
welded withthe flux-electrode combination being tested,
‘The welding parameters shall be as specified in Figure
3B for the weld test plate for the diameter electrode
being used.
2)A second weld pad is welded using the same
parameters, except that the arc voltage is increased by
8 volts.
ANSUAWS AS.17/AS.17M-97 (R2007)
(3) The top surface of each of the weld pads is ground
for machined smooth to clean metal. Samples sufficient
for analysis are removed by machining. Weld metal is
analyzed only from the top (fourth) layer of the weld
pad. The samples are analyzed separately for silicon and
‘manganese
(4) The Wall Neutrality Number depends on the
change in silicon, regardless of whether it increases or
decreases, and on the change in manganese, regardless of
whether it increases or decreases. The Wall Neutrality
‘Number isthe absolute value (ignoring positive or nega-
tive signs) and is calculated as follows:
00 (|A%Sil + |A%Mn)
where A% Si is the difference in silicon content of the
two pads, and A% Man is the corresponding difference in
‘manganese content.
AG.L5 Crushed Slags. Slag formed during the weld-
ing process that is subsequently crushed for use as
welding flux is defined as crushed slag. This i different
from a recycled flux which was never fused into a slag
and can often be collected from a clean surface and re-
used without crushing. Crushed slag and blends of
crushed slag with unused (virgin) flux may be classified
as a welding flux under this specification, but shall not
bbe considered to be the same as virgin flux
Although it is possible to crush and reuse submerged
are slag as a welding flux, the crushed slag, regardless of
any addition of virgin flux to it, is @ new and chemically
different flux. This is because the slag formed during
submerged arc welding does not have the same chemical
‘composition or welding characteristics as the virgin flux
Its composition is affected by the composition of the
original flux, chemical reactions which occur due to the
welding arc, the base metal and electrode compositions,
and the welding parameters.
Blends of crushed slag with the original brand of vir-
gin flux from which it was generated cannot be assumed
to conform to the classification of either component,
even when both the crushed slag and virgin lux conform
to the same classification (except for the “S” designator)
It shall be the responsibility of the crusher or fabricator
partner, who performs the blending, to verify that any in-
tended blend of crushed slag with the original brand of
virgin flux is in full conformance with the classification
requirements of this specification,
‘As with any flux product, the manufacturer (crusher)
shall follow a detailed processing procedure with con-
trolled input material, preparation, crushing, and blend-
ing, which will ensure that a standard quality of output
welding flux product is attained that meets the require-
‘ment for the classification designator.
2BANSUAWS AS.17/AS.174.97 (R007)
A6.1.6 Closed-Loop, Crushed Slags. Slag generated
by a fabricator fom a specific brand of flux under con-
trolled welding conditions and crushed for subsequent
reuse by the same fabricator is defined as closed-loop,
crushed slag.
Closed-loop, crushed slags, or blends of closed-loop,
‘rushed slag with the original brand of virgin flux ensure
better control of input material by virtue of the inherent
parinering ofthe fabricator withthe erushe. In some in-
stances, these partners may be one and the same. If
blending of slag with virgin flux is done, changes in the
original brand of virgin flux or in the blending rato can
affect the quality ofthe final product.
6.2 Choice of Electrodes. In choosing an electrode
classification for submerged are welding of carbon steel,
‘the most important considerations are the manganese and
silicon contents in the electrode, the effect of the flux on
recovery of manganese and silicon in the weld metal,
whether the weld is to be single pass or multipass, and
the mechanical properties expected of the weld metal.
A certain minimum weld-metal manganese content is
necessary to avoid centerline cracking, This minimum
depends upon restraint of the joint and upon the weld-
‘metal composition. In the event that centerline cracking
is encountered, especially with a low-manganese elec
‘rode (see Table 1) and neutral flux, a change to a higher
‘manganese electrode, a change to a more active flux, or
both, may eliminate the problem.
Certain fluxes, generally considered to be neutral,
tend to remove carbon and manganese toa limited extent
and to replace these elements with silicon. With such
fluxes, a silicon-killed electrode is often not necessary
though it may be used. Other fluxes add no silicon and
‘may therefore require the use ofa silicon-killed electrode
for proper wetting and freedom from porosity. The flux.
‘manufacturer should be consulted for electrode recom-
‘mendations suitable for a given flux.
In welding single-pass fillet welds, especially on scaly
‘base metal, it is important that the flux, electrode, or
both, provide sufficient deoxidation to avoid unaccept-
able porosity. Silicon is a more powerful deoxidizer than
‘manganese. In such applications, use of a silicon-killed
electrode or of an active flux, or both, may be essential
Again, manufacturer's recommendations should be
consulted
The EMI4K electrodes are alloyed with small
amounts of titanium, although they are considered as car-
bon steel electrodes. The titanium functions to improve
strength and notch toughness under certain conditions of |
high-heat input welding or PWHT. The manufacturer's,
recommendations should be consulted.
Electrodes of the EHI2K classification are high Mn
clectrodes with the Mn and Si balanced to enhance im-
pact properties on applications that require high deposi
tion rates or multiple are procedures, or both, in both the
as-welded and postweld heat-treated conditions.
Composite electrodes are generally designed for a
specific flux. The flux identification is required (see
16.7.1) to be marked on the electrode package. Before
using a composite electrode with a lux not indicated on
the electrode package markings, the electrode producer
should be contacted for recommendations. A composite
electrode might be chosen for higher melting rate and
lower depth of fusion at a given current level than would
bbe obtained under the same conditions with a solid
electrode,
AG3 Mechanical Properties of Submerged Arc
‘Welds. Tables SU and 6U (for the U.S. Customary Units
classification system) and Tables SM and 6M (for the Inter=
national System of Units classification system) of this
specification list the mechanical properties required of
weld metal from flux-electrode classifications (the elec-
trodes are classified in Tables 1 and 2). The mechanical
properties are determined from specimens prepared ac-
cording to the procedure called for in the specification
‘That procedure minimizes dilution from the base metal and
thereby more accurately reflects the properties of the un-
diluted weld metal from each flux-electrode combination
mn use, the electrodes and fluxes are handled sepa-
rately, and either of them may be changed without
changing the other. For this reason, a classification sys-
tem with standardized test methods is necessary to relate
the electrodes and fluxes to the properties of their weld
‘metal. Chemical reactions between the molten portion of
the electrode and the flux, and dilution by the base metal
all affect the composition of the weld metal
Submerged arc welds are not always made with the
‘multipass procedure required in the specification. They
frequently are made in a single pass, at least within cer-
tain limits on the thickness of the base metal. When a
high level of notch toughness is required, multipass
‘welds may be necessary.
‘The specific mechanical properties of a weld are a
function of its chemical composition, cooling rate, and
postweld heat treatment. High-amperage, single-pass
‘welds have greater depth of fusion and hence, greater di-
lution by the base metal than lower current, multipass
‘welds. Moreover, large, single-pass welds solidify and
coo! more slowly than the smaller weld beads of a multi-
‘pass weld. Furthermore, the succeeding passes of a mul-
ass weld subject the weld metal of previous passes to a
variety of temperature and cooling cycles that alter the
metallurgical structure of different portions of those
‘beads. For this reason, the properties of a single-pass
‘weld may be somewhat different from those of a multi
pass weld made wit the same electrode and flux.
‘The weld metal properties in this specification are de-
termined either in the as-welded condition or after a
24postweld heat treatment (one hour at 1150°F [620°C)), or
‘both, Most of the weld metals are suitable for service in
cither condition, but the specification cannot cover all of|
the conditions that such weld metals may encounter in
fabrication and service. For this reason, the classifica-
tions in this specification require that the weld metals be
‘produced and tested under certain specific conditions.
Procedures employed in practice may require voltage,
amperage, type of current, and travel speeds that are con-
erably different from those required in this specifica-
tion. In addition, differences encountered in electrode
size, electrode composition, electrode extension, joint
configuration, preheat temperature, interpass tempera
ture, and postweld heat treatment can have a significant
effect on the properties ofthe joint. Within a given elec-
trode classification, the electrode composition can vary
sufficiently to produce variations in the mechanical prop-
erties of the weld deposit in both the as-welded and
postweld heat-treated conditions.
Postweld heat-treatment times in excess ofthe | hour
used for classification purposes in this specification
(conventionally, 20 to 30 hours for very thick sections)
‘may have a major influence on the strength and tough-
ness of the weld metal. Both can be substantially re-
duced. The user needs to be aware ofthis and of the fact
thatthe mechanical properties of carbon steel weld metal
produced with other procedures may differ from the
properties required by Tables SU and 6U or Tables SM
and 6M of this specification, as applicable.
AG.4 Diffusible Hydrogen. The submerged are welding
process can be used to provide low-hydrogen weld de-
posits when care is taken to maintain the flux and elec
twode in a dry condition. In submerged are welding with
carbon steel electrodes and fluxes classified inthis speci-
fication, weld metal or heat-affected zone cracking ass0-
ciated with diffusible hydrogen tends to become more of
a problem with inereasing weld-metal strength, increas-
ing heat-affected zone hardness, increasing. diffusible
hydrogen content, decreasing preheat and interpass tem-
perature, and decreasing time at or above the interpass
temperature during and after welding. The detection of
hydrogen cracking may be delayed for several hours
after cooling due to the time required for the crack to
grow to a size which can be detected by routine inspeo-
tion methods. It may appear as transverse weld cracks,
longitudinal centerline cracks (especially in root beads),
and toe or underbead cracks inthe heat-affected zone.
Since the available diffusible hydrogen level strongly
influences the tendency towards hydrogen-induced
cracking, it may be desirable to measure the diffusible
hydrogen content resulting from a particular flux-elec-
trode combination. Accordingly, the use of optional sup-
plemental designators for diffusible hydrogen is
introduced to indicate the maximum average value ob-
ANSUAWS AS.17/AS.174-97 (R2007)
tained under a clearly defined test condition in
ANSVAWS A43, Standard Methods for Determination
of the Diffusible Hydrogen Content of Martensitic, Bai-
nitic, and Ferritic Stee! Weld Metal Produced by Are
Welding.
‘The user of this information is cautioned that actual
fabrication conditions may result in different diffusible
hydrogen values from those indicated by the designator.
The use of a reference atmospheric condition during
welding is necessitated because the are always is imper-
fectly shielded. Moisture from the air, distinct from that
in the electrode or flux, can enter the arc and subse-
quently the weld pool, contributing to the resulting ob-
served diffusible hydrogen. This effect can be minimized
by maintaining a suitable depth of flux cover (normally 1
to 1-1/2 in, (25 to 38 mm)) in front of the electrode dur-
ing welding.
‘Nevertheless, some air will mix with the flux cover
and add its moisture to the other sources of diffusible
hydrogen.
It is possible for this extra diffusible hydrogen to sig-
nificantly affect the outcome of a diffusible hydrogen
test, For this reason, itis appropriate to specify a refer-
ence atmospheric condition. The reference atmospheric
condition of 10 grains of moisture per Ib [1.5 grams of
moisture per kilogram] of dry air is equivalent to 10 per-
cent relative humidity at 68°F [20°C],
AT. General Safety Considerations
AT Burn Protection. Molten metal, sparks, slag, and
hot work surfaces are produced by welding, cutting, and
allied processes. These can cause burns if precautionary
measures are not used. Workers should wear protective
clothing made of fire-resistant material. Pant cuffs, open
pockets, or other places on clothing that can catch and re-
tain molten metal or sparks should not be worn. Hgh-top
shoes or leather leggings and fire-resistant gloves should
be wor. Pant legs should be worn over the outside of
high-top shoes. Helmets or hand shields that provide pro-
tection for the face, neck, and ears, and a head covering
to protect the head should be used. In addition, appropri-
ate eye protection should be used.
‘When welding overhead or in confined spaces, ear
plugs to prevent weld spatter from entering the ear canal
should be worn in combination with goggles or equiva-
Tent to give added eye protection. Clothing should be
kept free of grease and oil. Combustible materials should
not be carried in pockets. If any combustible substance
hs been spilled on clothing, a change to clean, fire-resis-
tant clothing should be made before working with open
ares or flame. Aprons, cape-sleeves, leggings, and shoul-
der covers with bibs designed for welding service should
25ANSUAWS AS.17/A5.17M-97 (R2007)
be used. Where welding or cutting of unusually thick
base metal is involved, sheet metal shields should be
used for extra protection.
Mechanization of highly hazardous processes or jobs
should be considered, Other personnel in the work area
should be protected by the use of noncombustible
sereens oF by the use of appropriate protection as de-
scribed in the previous paragraph. Before leaving a work
area, hot workpieces should be marked to alert other per-
sons of this hazard. No attempt should be made to repair
‘or disconnect electrical equipment when it is under load.
Disconnection under load produces arcing of the contacts,
and may cause bums or shock, or both. (Note: Burns can
be caused by touching hot equipment such as electrode
holders, tips, and nozsles. Therefore, insulated gloves
should be worn when these items are handled, unless
‘an adequate cooling period has been allowed before
touching)
The following sources are for more detailed informa
tion on personal protection:
(1) American National. Standards Institute. ANSU/
ASC ZAL.1, Safety-Toe Footwear. New York, N.Y.
‘American National Standards Institute
(@) ANSUASC 249.1, Safety in Welding, Cutting, and
Allied Processes. Miami, Fla.: American Welding Society
(G) ANSUASC 287.1, Practice for Occupational and
Educational Eye and Face Protection. New York, N.Y.:
‘American National Standards institut.
(4) Occupational Safety and Health Administration
Code of Federal Regulations, Title 29 Labor, Chapter
XVII, Part 1910, Washington, D.C: US. Goverment
Printing Office.*
‘A72 Electrical Hazards. Electric shock can kill; how-
ever, it can be avoided. Live electrical parts should not
be touched. The manufacturer's instructions and recom=
‘mended safe practices should be read and understood.
Faulty installation, improper grounding, and incorrect
‘operation and maintenance of electrical equipment are all
sources of danger.
Al electrical equipment and the workpieces should be
‘grounded. The workpiece lead is not a ground lead. It is
used only to complete the welding circuit. A separate con-
nection is required to ground the workpiece. The work-
piece should not be mistaken for a ground connection.
‘The correct cable size should be used, since sustained
overloading will cause cable failure and result in possible
electrical shock or fire hazard, All electrical connections
5. ANSI documents are published by the American National
Standards Institute, 11 West 42nd Steet, 13th Floor, New York,
NY 10036.
6. OSHA documents are published by the U.S. Government
Printing Ofice, Washington, DC 20402.
should be tight, clean, and dry. Poor connections can
‘overheat and even melt. Further, they can produce dan-
‘gerous arcs and sparks. Water, grease, or dirt should not
be allowed to accumulate on plugs, sockets, or electrical
units. Moisture can conduct electricity.
To prevent shock, the work area, equipment, and
clothing should be kept dry at al times. Welders should
‘wear dry gloves and rubber-soled shoes, or stand on a dry
board or insulated platform. Cables and connections
should be kept in good condition. Improper or wor elec-
trical connections may create conditions that could cause
electrical shock or short circuits. Worn, damaged), or bare
cables should not be used. Open-circut voltage should
be avoided. When several welders are working with ares
Of different polarities, or when a number of alternating,
‘current machines are being used, the open-cireuit volt-
ages can be additive. The added voltages increase the se-
verity ofthe shock hazard
In case of electric shock, the power should be tumed
off, Ifthe rescuer must resort to pulling the victim from
the live contact, nonconducting materials should be used.
Ifthe vietim is not breathing, cardiopulmonary resuscita-
(CPR) should be administered as soon as contact
with the electrical source is broken. A physician should
be called and CPR continued until breathing has been re-
stored, or until a physician has arrived. Electrical burns
are treated as thermal burns; that is, clean, cold (iced)
compresses should be applied. Contamination should be
avoided; the area should be covered with a clean, dry
dressing; and the patient should be transported to medi-
cal assistance.
Recognized safety standards such as ANSVASC
749.1, Safety in Welding, Cutting, and Allied Processes,
and NFPA No. 70, National Electrical Code, available
from National Fire Protection Association, 1 Battery
‘march Park, Quincy, MA 02269, should be followed.
A7.3 Fumes and Gases. Many welding, cutting, and al-
lied processes produce fumes and gases which may be
hharmful to health, Fumes are solid particles that originate
from welding filler metals and fluxes, the base metal, and
any coatings present on the base metal. Gases are pro-
duced during the welding process or may be produced by
the effects of process radiation on the surrounding envi-
ronment. Management personnel and welders alike
should be aware of the effects ofthese fumes and gases.
‘The amount and composition of these fumes and gases
depend upon the composition ofthe filler metal and base
‘metal, welding process, current level, arc length, and
other factors.
The possible effects of overexposure range from iri-
tation of eyes, skin, and respiratory system to more se-
‘vere complications. Effects may occur immediately or at
some later time. Fumes can cause symptoms such as
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