What is the 1G Plate Qualification?

The 1G welding position refers to a groove weld performed on a plate in the flat position. In this setup, the test plate lies horizontally, and the welding is executed from the top side.

This position is generally considered the easiest due to gravity assisting in controlling the molten weld puddle, leading to higher deposition rates and faster welding speeds. However, even the "easiest" position requires precision to ensure proper weld penetration and a sound weld.

The "1" designates the position (flat), and the "G" signifies a groove weld. This specific welding performance. This specific welding performance qualification is crucial for welders primarily involved in fabricating components in a shop setting where parts can be easily manipulated into the flat position.

Don't let the welder qualification process be a barrier to your projects. Contact WeldCertTest today to discuss your 1G plate qualification needs, receive a personalized quote, and begin your efficient path to AWS D1.1 compliance.

Thickness Qualification Range

Test Plate Thickness Options:

3/8" Test Plate:

1" Test Plate:

Qualifies for production thickness range:

Qualifies for production thickness range:

• Minimum: 1/8" (3.2mm)

• Maximum: 3/4" (19mm)

• Minimum: 1/8" (3.2mm)

• Maximum: Unlimited

Common Welding Processes for 1G Plate Qualification

Ready to Achieve Your 1G Plate Welding Certification?

The 1G Plate Qualification is the foundational welding certification test in the AWS D1.1 Structural Welding Code (Steel). It verifies a welder's proficiency in performing groove welds in the flat position, a skill essential for countless structural steel projects.

At WeldCertTest, we streamline your journey to achieving this vital welder qualification through our efficient mail-in welding certification services, connecting you with certified AWS CWIs and testing laboratories nationwide.

Mastering the 1G Plate Qualification: Your Path to Flat Position Welding Certification

What Does a 1G Plate Qualification Certify?

Successfully passing the AWS D1.1 1G Plate Qualification offers specific ranges of qualification, as defined by the code.

This test primarily certifies a welder's ability to perform:

• Groove Welds: Qualified for flat position groove welds (1G) on plate.

• Fillet Welds: This qualification also extends to flat fillet welds (1F) and horizontal fillet welds (2F) on plate, without requiring a separate fillet weld test. This broadens the welder's versatility for common structural applications.

The thickness of the test plate used directly impacts the qualified thickness range for production welds:

• For a test plate less than 1 inch (25 mm) thick, the welder is typically qualified for 2T (two times the thickness of the test plate) for groove welds.

• For a test plate 1 inch (25 mm) or thicker, the welder is qualified for unlimited thickness in groove welds.

• For fillet welds, qualification for a groove weld typically qualifies the welder for unlimited thickness for fillet welds.

The 1G Plate Qualification can be achieved using a variety of common welding processes.

The process used during the welding certification test will determine the processes the welder is qualified for in production. Our service supports qualification for the most widely used methods in structural steel welding:

• Shielded Metal Arc Welding (SMAW): Often referred to as "Stick Welding," SMAW is versatile and widely used for 1G plate qualification.

• Gas Metal Arc Welding (GMAW): Commonly known as "MIG Welding," GMAW offers high deposition rates and is very efficient for flat position welding.

• Flux-Cored Arc Welding (FCAW): FCAW, with its high deposition rates and suitability for outdoor conditions, is also a popular choice for 1G qualification.

• Gas Tungsten Arc Welding (GTAW): While typically slower, "TIG Welding" can also be used for 1G plate qualification, especially where precise control and high-quality finishes are paramount.

The 1G Plate Qualification Process with Weld Cert Test

Our seamless 4-step weld qualification process ensures your journey to 1G certification is efficient and compliant:

1. Initial Consultation:

   Discuss your welder qualification needs. We'll provide exact weld testing requirements and shipping instructions for your test coupons.

2. Test Weld & Shipping:

   Your welder performs the 1G test weld on a specified plate coupon according to your WPS. You then ship the carefully prepared and labeled coupon to our designated receiving point.

3. Expert Testing & Coordination:

   • An AWS CWI performs a thorough visual inspection of your test plate as per AWS D1.1.

   • The coupon undergoes destructive testing, typically guided bend tests (face and root bends) to evaluate the weld soundness and integrity, ensuring no internal discontinuities.

   • Should your WPS require it, non-destructive testing (NDE) like radiographic testing (X-ray) can be performed in lieu of or in addition to bend tests, offering another layer of quality assurance.

4. WPQ Documentation & Delivery:

   Upon successful completion of all tests, an official Welder Performance Qualification (WPQ) record is prepared, signed by the CWI, and delivered to you, along with supporting laboratory test reports. This comprehensive package confirms your welder's qualification for structural steel welding.

Why Choose WeldCertTest for Your 1G Plate Qualification?

Nationwide Mail-In Service:

Our unique model allows welders from anywhere in the country to achieve their AWS D1.1 certifications without traveling to a test facility.

• Streamlined Efficiency: We handle all coordination with CWIs and testing laboratories, reducing your administrative burden and speeding up the certification process.

• Uncompromising Compliance: Every test is performed to strict AWS D1.1 standards, ensuring your welder qualifications are fully recognized and compliant with welding codes.

• Expert Network: Access to a network of experienced professionals dedicated to accurate and reliable weld testing.

Frequently Asked Questions about 1G Plate Qualification

Q: Is the 1G position the easiest welding test?

A: Yes, the 1G (flat) position is generally considered the easiest as gravity assists in controlling the molten weld puddle. However, it still requires proper technique and adherence to WPS to pass the required visual and mechanical testing.

Q: Does a 1G qualification cover fillet welds?

A: Yes, per AWS D1.1, a successful 1G groove weld qualification on plate also qualifies the welder for flat (1F) and horizontal (2F) fillet welds on plate.

Q: How long is a 1G welding certification valid?

A: Welder qualifications remain in effect indefinitely unless a specific code like AWS D1.1 Clause 4.25 requires renewal (e.g., if the welder has not welded with the qualified process for six months or if there's a reason to question their ability). Regular welder continuity records are crucial.

Q: What kind of destructive tests are performed for 1G?

A: The primary destructive tests for a 1G plate groove weld are guided bend tests (typically two face bends and two root bends). These tests check for the internal soundness of the weld.