§ WPS template
AWS D1.1:2025 SAW WPS for ASTM A588
How to draft an AWS D1.1:2025 Welding Procedure Specification for Submerged Arc Welding (SAW) on ASTM A588 Weathering Steel. Recommended filler: EM2 · F8A-EM2. 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 A588
Atmospheric corrosion-resistant (weathering) HSLA steel. The Cor-Ten family. Used unpainted; develops a stable oxide layer. Filler metal must be color-matched (weathering grade) or the joint must be painted.
- AWS D1.1 Group (Table 6.9)
- Group I
- Yield (ksi)
- 50
- Tensile (ksi)
- 70
- Weldability
- good
Prequalification path
ASTM A588 (Group I) is on the prequalified base metals list for SAW per AWS D1.1:2025 Clause 5. A written WPS is still mandatory but no PQR test is required as long as every Clause 5 essential variable (joint geometry, filler, preheat, current/polarity, etc.) is met.
Preheat: 70°F up to 3/4 in; 200°F from 3/4 in to 1-1/2 in; 300°F above 1-1/2 in for low-hydrogen practice. Filler must match weathering chemistry (e.g., E8018-W, ER80S-W).
Typical parameters
Starting points only. Verify against electrode manufacturer data and your PQR.
| Filler | EM2 · F8A-EM2 |
| 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
A588 weathering steel: the filler metal must color-match (e.g., E8018-W, ER80S-W) unless the joint is painted. A non-weathering filler is a Table 6.6 row 3 essential variable change if it deviates from PQR.
Where SAW on ASTM A588 fits
- Highway bridges (unpainted)
- Exposed architectural structures
- Outdoor sculptures
- Industrial buildings without painted finish
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FAQ
Does AWS D1.1:2025 prequalify SAW on ASTM A588?
Yes — ASTM A588 is on the Clause 5 prequalified base metals list and SAW is a Clause 5 prequalified process. You still need a written WPS but no PQR.
What filler is recommended for SAW on ASTM A588?
EM2 · F8A-EM2. 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 A588 need?
70°F up to 3/4 in; 200°F from 3/4 in to 1-1/2 in; 300°F above 1-1/2 in for low-hydrogen practice. Filler must match weathering chemistry (e.g., E8018-W, ER80S-W).