§ WPS template
AWS D1.1:2025 SAW WPS for ASTM A514
How to draft an AWS D1.1:2025 Welding Procedure Specification for Submerged Arc Welding (SAW) on ASTM A514 Quenched & Tempered HSLA. Recommended filler: EA3K · F11A-EA3K. Below: process notes, base metal properties, prequalification path, typical parameters, and which essential variables to watch.
About SAW (Submerged Arc Welding)
Mechanized process with granular flux shielding the arc. Very high deposition rates, deep penetration, smooth bead profile. Limited to flat (1G/1F) and horizontal (2G/2F) positions because the flux falls under gravity. Multi-arc setups (tandem, twin) are common for production lines.
Process family: mechanized. Suited to: bridge plate girders, heavy structural shop welds, and similar work.
About ASTM A514
Quenched and tempered (Q&T) high-strength low-alloy steel. T-1 family. Strict hydrogen control and heat-input limits required to avoid HAZ embrittlement. Matching filler (E11018-M, ER100S-1) and Table 5.7 preheat are non-negotiable.
- AWS D1.1 Group (Table 6.9)
- Group III
- Yield (ksi)
- 100
- Tensile (ksi)
- 110–130
- Weldability
- controlled
Prequalification path
ASTM A514 (Group III) with SAW is NOT eligible for Clause 5 prequalification because Q&T high-strength steels (A514) are excluded. You must run a PQR test and qualify against Tables 6.6 (PQR essential variables) and, for notch-toughness applications, Table 6.8.
Preheat: High preheat throughout: 50°F minimum below 3/4 in, 150°F from 3/4 to 1-1/2 in, 200°F at 1-1/2 to 2-1/2 in, 300°F above 2-1/2 in (low-hydrogen only, per Table 5.7).
Typical parameters
Starting points only. Verify against electrode manufacturer data and your PQR.
| Filler | EA3K · F11A-EA3K |
| Amperage | 350–800 A |
| Voltage | 28–36 V |
| Travel speed | 15–40 ipm |
| Position(s) typically qualified | 1G, 1F (flat only) |
Essential variables to watch (AWS D1.1:2025 Table 6.6)
If your shop is working from a PQR, these are the SAW-specific changes that require requalification per Table 6.6. The rule engine flags every one of them with the row number, clause reference, and the actual delta.
- Flux/wire classification change
- Filler diameter (any change)
- Number of electrodes (parallel/tandem)
- Heat input increase (CVN supp essential)
- Arc spacing > 10% or 1/8 in
A514 specific: heat-input control matters more than usual. Higher heat input softens the Q&T microstructure in the HAZ. If CVN testing applies, Table 6.8 row 10 makes any heat-input increase over the qualified value an essential variable.
Where SAW on ASTM A514 fits
- Heavy mobile equipment
- High-stress load-bearing components
- Crane booms
- Earthmoving equipment frames
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FAQ
Does AWS D1.1:2025 prequalify SAW on ASTM A514?
No. ASTM A514 with SAW requires PQR qualification per Clause 6. Run the PQR test, then qualify the WPS against Tables 6.6 + (for CVN) 6.8.
What filler is recommended for SAW on ASTM A514?
EA3K · F11A-EA3K. Verify against your project specification and the consumable manufacturer's data sheet. Filler classification change is a Table 6.6 essential variable.
What preheat does ASTM A514 need?
High preheat throughout: 50°F minimum below 3/4 in, 150°F from 3/4 to 1-1/2 in, 200°F at 1-1/2 to 2-1/2 in, 300°F above 2-1/2 in (low-hydrogen only, per Table 5.7).