What is the 2G Plate Qualification?

The 2G welding position involves welding a groove weld where the plate is positioned vertically, and the weld axis is horizontal. This means the weld is made horizontally across the vertical surface of the plate. Unlike the 1G (flat) position, the 2G position introduces new challenges, particularly in managing molten metal flow against gravity and preventing sagging, while maintaining a consistent bead profile and proper heat input.

The "2" designates the position (horizontal), and the "G" signifies a groove weld. This specific welder performance qualification is essential for welders who will be working on large fixed structures or components where horizontal joints are prevalent, common in fields like structural fabrication, bridge construction, and general heavy industry.

The AWS D1.1 2G Plate Qualification can be achieved using a variety of welding processes permitted by the code.

The process used during your welding certification test will determine the specific processes you are qualified for in production. Weld Cert Test coordinates testing for the most widely adopted methods:

• Shielded Metal Arc Welding (SMAW):

• Often referred to as "Stick Welding," SMAW is a robust and widely used process for the 2G position, requiring skillful manipulation to control the molten puddle horizontally.

• Flux-Cored Arc Welding (FCAW-G / FCAW-S):

• Both gas-shielded (FCAW-G) and self-shielded (FCAW-S) flux-cored processes are highly effective for 2G welding due to their high deposition rates and ability to handle horizontal joint configurations.

• Gas Metal Arc Welding (GMAW):

• Commonly known as "MIG Welding," GMAW is an efficient process for 2G, requiring careful attention to parameters to avoid excessive sag or poor bead profile.

• Gas Tungsten Arc Welding (GTAW):

• While less common for thick structural steel, "TIG Welding" can also be used for 2G qualification, particularly for precise applications requiring superior weld quality.

What Does a 2G Plate Qualification Certify?

Successfully passing the AWS D1.1 2G Plate Qualification extends a welder's capabilities and certifies them for specific production welding positions and joint types.

The qualification ranges include:

• Groove Welds: Qualification for flat (1G) and horizontal (2G) production groove welds on plate. This includes both complete joint penetration groove welds and partial joint penetration groove welds.

• Fillet Welds: A successful 2G groove weld qualification typically also qualifies the welder for fillet welds in both the flat (1F) and horizontal (2F) positions on plate, eliminating the need for separate fillet weld certification in these positions.

Thickness Qualification Range:

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

• For a 3/8" test plate, the welder is qualified for a production thickness range of 1/8" to 3/4" for groove welds.

• For a 1" test plate (or thicker), the welder achieves a qualification for a range of 1/8" to unlimited thickness for groove welds.

• This is a highly sought-after welding qualification for structural steel work.

• For fillet welds, a successful 2G groove weld qualification generally grants unlimited thickness qualification.

Why Choose WeldCertTest for Your AWS D1.1 2G Qualification?

Our streamlined, 4-step process ensures your AWS D1.1 2G Plate Qualification is efficient and fully compliant:

1. Initial Consultation & Requirements:

   Contact WeldCertTest with your welder qualification needs. We'll provide exact 2G test plate specifications, weld testing requirements, and shipping instructions for your welded test coupons.

2. Test Weld & Secure Shipping:

   Your welder performs the 2G groove weld on the specified test plate according to your Welding Procedure Specification (WPS). You then prepare and securely ship the labeled weld coupon to our designated receiving point.

3. Expert Testing & Coordination:

   • An AWS CWI conducts a meticulous visual inspection of your 2G test weld for compliance with AWS D1.1 Clause 4.

   • The coupon proceeds to an accredited testing laboratory for essential destructive testing, primarily guided bend tests (face and root bends for groove welds). These tests verify the internal weld soundness and ductility.

   • When specified by your WPS, we also coordinate non-destructive testing (NDE), such as radiographic testing (RT) weld or magnetic particle testing (MPT) weld, to further assess weld integrity.

4. Official WPQ Documentation & Delivery:

   Upon successful completion of all required welding tests, an official Welder Performance Qualification (WPQ) record is prepared and signed by the CWI. This comprehensive package, including supporting laboratory test reports, is securely delivered to your firm, confirming your welder's qualification for structural steel welding in the horizontal position.

Common Welding Processes for 2G Plate Qualification

The 2G plate qualification presents distinct challenges compared to flat position welding. Welders must master:

Molten Metal Control:

• Gravity's pull in the horizontal position can cause the molten puddle to sag, leading to uneven bead profile or undercut. Welders must skillfully manipulate the arc and travel speed to maintain control.

  Heat Input Management:

• Proper heat input is vital to ensure adequate fusion and penetration without overheating the weld, which could exacerbate sagging or lead to defects.

  Consistent Travel Technique:

• Maintaining a uniform travel speed and electrode manipulation is key to achieving a consistent weld size and shape across the entire horizontal joint.

Our Certified Welding Inspectors understand these nuances and perform thorough visual inspection and mechanical testing like bend tests to ensure your 2G groove weld meets all AWS D1.1 welding inspection requirements.

National Mail-In Convenience:

• Eliminate travel time and logistical headaches. Our mail-in welding certification service brings AWS D1.1 qualification directly to your welders, anywhere in the U.S.

  Streamlined Efficiency:

• We handle all coordination with our network of Certified Welding Inspectors and testing laboratories, ensuring a quick and smooth welding certification process from start to finish.

  Uncompromising Compliance:

• Every 2G plate test is performed to the stringent AWS D1.1 standards, guaranteeing your welder qualifications are recognized, valid, and fully compliant with welding codes.

  Expert Network:

• Access to a trusted network of professionals specializing in precise weld testing and accurate WPQ documentation. We also help track welder continuity for re-certification services.

Frequently Asked Questions about 2G Plate Qualification

Q: Is the 2G position harder than 1G?

A: Yes, the 2G (horizontal) position is generally considered more challenging than the 1G (flat) position because gravity pulls the molten weld puddle downwards, requiring greater skill to control and prevent sagging or undercut.

Q: Does a 2G qualification cover vertical or overhead welding?

A: No, a 2G groove weld qualification typically covers only flat (1G) and horizontal (2G) groove welds. It does not qualify for vertical (3G) or overhead (4G) positions. You would need to perform separate tests for those.

Q: What is the minimum and maximum thickness a 2G test qualifies a welder for?

A: For groove welds, a 3/8" test plate qualifies for 1/8" to 3/4" production thickness. A 1" (or thicker) test plate qualifies for 1/8" to unlimited thickness qualification. For fillet welds, a 2G groove weld test generally provides unlimited thickness qualification.

Q: What kind of destructive tests are performed for 2G plate qualification?

A: The primary destructive tests for a 2G plate groove weld are guided bend tests (typically two face bends and two root bends). These are crucial for verifying the internal weld soundness and ductility.

Ready to Achieve Your AWS D1.1 2G Plate Welding Certification?

Don't let the complexities of welder qualification slow down your projects. Contact Weld Cert Test today to discuss your 2G plate qualification needs, receive a personalized quote, and begin your efficient path to AWS D1.1 compliance and enhanced welder performance qualification.

Challenges and Expert Techniques for 2G Welding

The 2G Plate Qualification, as defined by the AWS D1.1 Structural Welding Code, is a crucial welder qualification test that verifies a welder's proficiency in performing groove welds in the horizontal position. This skill is fundamental for a wide array of structural steel welding projects, particularly where components cannot be rotated into the flat position. At Weld Cert Test, we simplify your path to achieving this vital welding certification through our efficient mail-in welding certification services, connecting you with certified AWS CWIs and accredited testing laboratories across the nation.

This page will provide an in-depth look at the 2G plate qualification, outlining the test specifics, its qualification ranges, the welding processes commonly used, and why successful completion is a significant step in a welder's career.

Mastering the AWS D1.1 2G Plate Qualification: Horizontal Position Welding Certification

Your 2G Plate Qualification Process with Weld Cert Test