AWS Certified Welding Inspector — FundamentalsWelding SymbolsEasy

A welding inspector is reviewing a drawing for a T-joint. The welding symbol specifies a single-bevel groove weld on the arrow side. To ensure proper fit-up, what specific preparatory detail is indicated by the bevel symbol's orientation?

  1. AThe base metal on the arrow side must be beveled.
  2. BThe root opening must be zero.
  3. CBoth base metals must be beveled.
  4. DThe base metal on the other side must be beveled.
Show answer & explanation

Correct answer: A. The base metal on the arrow side must be beveled.

For a single-bevel groove weld, the symbol indicates that only one of the members is prepared with a bevel. When the symbol is on the arrow side, the member pointed to by the arrow is the one that receives the bevel preparation.

Why the other options are wrong

  • B. Root opening is a separate dimension shown on the symbol, not directly indicated by bevel orientation.
  • C. This would be a double-bevel groove weld, with symbols on both sides.
  • D. This would be indicated by the symbol being above the reference line.

Single-Bevel Groove Weld

A groove weld where only one of the joint members is prepared with a single bevel.

  • Symbol below reference line = arrow side member beveled.
  • Symbol above reference line = other side member beveled.
  • Bevel symbol orientation indicates which plate is beveled.

Memory trick: Bevels point the way to the prepared plate.

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