FLAT-POSITION WELDING

Earlier reexplained that welding can be done in any position, but it is much simpler when done in the flat position. In this position, the work is less tiring, welding speed is faster, the molten puddle is not as likely to run, and better penetration can be achieved. When- ever possible, try to position the work so you can weld in the flat position. In the flat position, the face of the weld is approximately horizontal.

Joint Type

Butt joints are the primary type of joints used in the flat position of welding; however, flat-position welding can be made on just about any type of joint providing you can rotate the section you are welding on to the appropriate position. Techniques that are useful in making butt joints in the flat position, with and without the use of backing strips, are described below.

BUTT JOINTS WITHOUT BACKING STRIPS. - A butt joint is used to join two plates having surfaces in about the same plane. Several forms of butt joints are shown in figure 7-17.

Plates up to 1/8 inch thick can be welded in one pass with no special edge preparation. Plates from 1/8 to 3/16 inch in thickness also can be welded with no special edge preparation by welding on both sides of the joint.