§ WPS template
AWS D1.1:2025 SMAW WPS for ASTM A992
How to draft an AWS D1.1:2025 Welding Procedure Specification for Shielded Metal Arc Welding (SMAW) on ASTM A992 Wide-Flange 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 A992
The current standard for wide-flange (W) shapes in US steel construction. Replaced A36 as the default for W-shapes circa 2003. Yield range controlled (50-65 ksi) for predictable seismic performance.
- AWS D1.1 Group (Table 6.9)
- Group I
- Yield (ksi)
- 50–65 (50 min)
- Tensile (ksi)
- 65 min
- Weldability
- good
Prequalification path
ASTM A992 (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: Same as A572 Grade 50: 50°F to 3/4 in; 150°F from 3/4 in to 1-1/2 in; 225°F above (low-hydrogen).
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 A992 fits
- Wide-flange columns and beams (W-shapes)
- Special and moment-frame seismic applications
- Composite beams
- AISC 360 / 341 conforming structures
Start now
Draft this WPS in the next 2 minutes.
Start a 14-day Pro trial and the editor opens with this SMAW + ASTM A992 setup preselected. AI drafts every narrative section with inline citations to AWS D1.1:2025. Export as a PDF, your CWI signs.
Related WPS templates
FAQ
Does AWS D1.1:2025 prequalify SMAW on ASTM A992?
Yes — ASTM A992 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 A992?
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 A992 need?
Same as A572 Grade 50: 50°F to 3/4 in; 150°F from 3/4 in to 1-1/2 in; 225°F above (low-hydrogen).