Welding Positions and Joint Types – 1G, 2G, 3G, 4G, 5G, and 6G Explained
- 1G Position (Flat Groove Weld): This is the most basic welding position where the workpiece is flat, and welding is done from the top. Ideal for beginner welders and automated systems.
- 2G Position (Horizontal Groove Weld): The weld axis is horizontal, and welding is done on a vertical surface. Requires better control over molten weld pool.
- 3G Position (Vertical Groove Weld): Welding is performed vertically, either uphill or downhill. Common in structural welding and pipe welding jobs.
- 4G Position (Overhead Groove Weld): Welding from below the workpiece. Considered challenging due to gravity affecting the molten weld pool.
- 5G Position (Pipe Welding Horizontal): Used for welding pipes in a fixed horizontal position. The pipe cannot be rotated, making it suitable for oil & gas industry pipelines.
- 6G Position (Pipe Welding Inclined at 45°): A highly skilled position where the pipe is fixed at a 45° angle. This position tests all-round welding capabilities and is mandatory in many international certifications.
- 1F – Flat Fillet Weld: The workpieces are placed at 90° and welding is done in the flat position.
- 1G – Flat Groove Weld: Groove welding performed flatly with the weld axis horizontal.
- 2F – Horizontal Fillet Weld: Welding is carried out horizontally on the upper side of a horizontal surface.
- 2G – Horizontal Groove Weld: Groove weld applied to the side of a vertical plate with horizontal weld axis.
- 3F – Vertical Fillet Weld: Welding is performed vertically between two joined plates.
- 3G – Vertical Groove Weld: Used for vertical groove welds, either upward (preferred for quality) or downward.
- 4F – Overhead Fillet Weld: Fillet welding carried out from underneath the joint.
- 4G – Overhead Groove Weld: Groove weld from the underside of the workpiece, challenging and typically done by certified professionals.
- 5G – Horizontal Fixed Pipe Weld: The pipe stays in place while the welder moves around it, simulating real industrial welding environments.
- 6G – Inclined Fixed Pipe Weld: One of the most difficult welding positions. Essential in oil & gas, offshore platforms, refinery projects, and high-pressure pipeline installations.
Welding positions like 1G to 6G play a vital role in fabrication, oil & gas construction, offshore platforms, and industrial infrastructure projects. Whether it's flat, horizontal, vertical, or overhead welding, each position requires different skill levels and techniques. The 6G position, in particular, is considered the gold standard in welding certification due to its difficulty and coverage of all other positions. Welders aiming for international opportunities or jobs in high-pressure environments must be trained in advanced positions like 5G and 6G. Employers in industries such as shipbuilding, oil & gas, power plants, and pipeline construction prioritize candidates with experience in these key positions, making certification and expertise critical in securing high-paying welding jobs.
