AWS Certified Welding Inspector — FundamentalsWelding SymbolsMedium
A welding drawing specifies a radiographic test (RT) for a butt joint. The NDE symbol indicates RT directly on the reference line, with the RT symbol above the reference line. What does this placement imply about the inspection coverage?
- ARadiographic testing is required for the weld on the arrow side of the joint only.
- BRadiographic testing is required for the entire length of the weld from one side.
- CRadiographic testing is required for the weld on the other side of the joint only.
- DRadiographic testing is required for the entire length of the weld, regardless of which side it was made from.
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: D. Radiographic testing is required for the entire length of the weld, regardless of which side it was made from.
When an NDE symbol like RT is placed directly on the reference line (not above or below the weld symbol itself), it applies to the entire joint or weld, not just a specific side. The placement above the reference line in this context usually indicates the inspection method, not a specific side of the weld when applied to a butt joint.
Why the other options are wrong
- A. This is incorrect; for NDE, placement directly on the reference line for a butt joint indicates full coverage.
- B. While RT is often performed from one side, the symbol placement implies full coverage of the joint, not just a specific side of the weld.
- C. This is incorrect; for NDE, placement directly on the reference line for a butt joint indicates full coverage.
NDE Symbol Placement (Butt Joint)
For butt joints, NDE symbols placed directly on the reference line generally indicate that the entire weld or joint is to be inspected by the specified method.
- Applies to the entire weld length.
- Does not distinguish between arrow side or other side for butt joint inspection scope.
- Specific inspection extent (e.g., spot, intermittent) would be indicated by additional symbols or notes in the tail.
Memory trick: Reference line for NDE means 'all-around' for the weld.