§ WPS template
AWS D1.1:2025 SMAW WPS for ASTM A572 Grade 50
How to draft an AWS D1.1:2025 Welding Procedure Specification for Shielded Metal Arc Welding (SMAW) on ASTM A572 Grade 50 HSLA 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 A572 Grade 50
High-strength low-alloy (HSLA) columbium-vanadium steel. The workhorse of modern AISC structural fabrication. Higher yield than A36 with similar weldability when low-hydrogen practice is followed.
- AWS D1.1 Group (Table 6.9)
- Group I
- Yield (ksi)
- 50
- Tensile (ksi)
- 65
- Weldability
- good
Prequalification path
ASTM A572 Grade 50 (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: 50°F up to 3/4 in; 150°F from 3/4 in to 1-1/2 in; 225°F above 1-1/2 in (low-hydrogen consumables, 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 A572 Grade 50 fits
- AISC building structures (columns, beams, girders)
- Wide-flange and HSS sections
- Bridge girders
- Crane runways
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FAQ
Does AWS D1.1:2025 prequalify SMAW on ASTM A572 Grade 50?
Yes — ASTM A572 Grade 50 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 A572 Grade 50?
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 A572 Grade 50 need?
50°F up to 3/4 in; 150°F from 3/4 in to 1-1/2 in; 225°F above 1-1/2 in (low-hydrogen consumables, per Table 5.7).