§ WPS template
AWS D1.1:2025 SMAW WPS for ASTM A36
How to draft an AWS D1.1:2025 Welding Procedure Specification for Shielded Metal Arc Welding (SMAW) on ASTM A36 Carbon Structural Steel. Recommended filler: E7018. Below: process notes, base metal properties, prequalification path, typical parameters, and which essential variables to watch.
About SMAW (Shielded Metal Arc Welding)
Manual stick welding. The most common process for field-welded structural steel because it tolerates wind, contamination, and out-of-position work. Low-hydrogen electrodes (e.g., E7018) are the default for higher-strength bases or thicker sections. Output is constant current (CC); voltage is electrode-controlled.
Process family: manual. Suited to: structural steel field welding, repair and maintenance, and similar work.
About ASTM A36
The default structural carbon steel for non-critical applications. Carbon content typically 0.25-0.29%, low carbon equivalent, excellent weldability with both low-hydrogen and non-low-hydrogen consumables. Plate, bar, and shapes.
- AWS D1.1 Group (Table 6.9)
- Group I
- Yield (ksi)
- 36
- Tensile (ksi)
- 58–80
- Weldability
- excellent
Prequalification path
ASTM A36 (Group I) is on the prequalified base metals list for SMAW 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: No preheat required for thicknesses ≤ 3/4 in at typical heat inputs; 50°F minimum below 3/4 in, 150°F at 1-1/2 in and above per Table 5.7.
Typical parameters
Starting points only. Verify against electrode manufacturer data and your PQR.
| Filler | E7018 |
| Amperage | 90–160 A (1/8 in electrode) |
| Voltage | not specified — CC output |
| Travel speed | 4–8 ipm |
| Position(s) typically qualified | All positions (1G–4G); 5G/6G for pipe per Clause 10 |
Essential variables to watch (AWS D1.1:2025 Table 6.6)
If your shop is working from a PQR, these are the SMAW-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.
- Filler classification & low-hydrogen status
- Electrode diameter increase > 1/32 in
- Current type / polarity flip
- Preheat decrease > 25°F (or 100°F for GTAW)
- PWHT addition or deletion
Where SMAW on ASTM A36 fits
- Light to medium structural framing
- Miscellaneous and ornamental steel
- Base plates and gussets
- Non-load-critical components
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FAQ
Does AWS D1.1:2025 prequalify SMAW on ASTM A36?
Yes — ASTM A36 is on the Clause 5 prequalified base metals list and SMAW is a Clause 5 prequalified process. You still need a written WPS but no PQR.
What filler is recommended for SMAW on ASTM A36?
E7018. 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 A36 need?
No preheat required for thicknesses ≤ 3/4 in at typical heat inputs; 50°F minimum below 3/4 in, 150°F at 1-1/2 in and above per Table 5.7.