Weld Symbols and Drawing Interpretation
Reference lines, arrow side, other side, field welds, weld-all-around, and supplementary symbols.
- Identify the components of a standard AWS weld symbol
- Explain arrow side and other side placement conventions
- Interpret supplementary symbols including field weld and weld-all-around
Lesson 1
Weld Symbol Basics and Reference Line
Weld Symbol Anatomy
The AWS weld symbol is a standardized graphical shorthand used on engineering drawings to specify exactly what type of weld is required, where it goes, its size, and any special requirements. Every weld symbol is built on a reference line - a horizontal line with an arrow pointing to the joint.
The reference line is the backbone of the symbol. Information placed below the reference line applies to the arrow side of the joint (the side the arrow points to). Information placed above the reference line applies to the other side of the joint.
Weld Type Symbols
The basic weld type is shown by a small symbol on the reference line:
- Fillet weld - right triangle shape
- V-groove - V shape
- Bevel groove - half-V shape
- U-groove - U shape
- J-groove - J shape
- Plug/slot weld - rectangle
Exam Tip
The reference line is always horizontal. The arrow can point up or down. Remember: below the line = arrow side, above the line = other side.
Every weld symbol is built on a reference line with an arrow pointing to the joint. Information below the line = arrow side, above the line = other side. The weld type is shown by a standardized geometric symbol on the reference line.