The hardest single-position plate test. Welding overhead means gravity is dragging the puddle toward your face. Pass the 4G and you've demonstrated real skill. Most welders pair it with the 3G for full all-position certification.
The 4G is a CJP groove weld performed overhead — plate is above the welder, welding upward. Every instinct says that's wrong, and the puddle agrees by trying to fall. Managing arc length, heat input, and puddle support in overhead is what this test proves.
| Weld Type | Positions Qualified |
|---|---|
| Groove Welds | Flat (1G), Horizontal (2G), Overhead (4G) |
| Fillet Welds | 1F, 2F, 4F |
| Vertical (3G/3F) | NOT covered standalone |
Overhead demands short arc length, lower amperage, and fast travel speed. SMAW with E7018 is the most common process — it freezes quickly enough to support the puddle. FCAW works too with proper parameter control. GMAW short-circuit is technically viable but rarely used overhead due to spatter and heat management challenges.
The CWI is looking for consistent bead profile, no burn-through, and no undercut. Overhead undercut is often the failure point — it shows up on visual before you even get to bends.
4G + 3G All-Position Get a Quote