Understanding Fillet Weld Symbols

Understanding Fillet Weld Symbols

Fillet welds are a common type of weld used to join two pieces of metal at a right angle. They are often used in structural applications, such as in the construction of buildings, bridges, and vehicles. Understanding fillet weld symbols is essential for anyone working with welding drawings, as they provide critical information about the type, size, and location of the weld.

Fillet Weld Symbol Components

Fillet weld symbols are made up of several components, each of which provides specific information about the weld. The main components of a fillet weld symbol are:

• Reference Line: This line indicates the location of the weld. It is drawn perpendicular to the joint line and extends to the side of the weld symbol where the arrow is located.
• Arrow: The arrow points to the side of the weld that is to be welded. It indicates the side of the joint where the weld is to be applied.
• Weld Symbol: This symbol represents the type of weld to be used. For fillet welds, the symbol is a small equilateral triangle.
• Size: The size of the weld is indicated by a number placed near the weld symbol. This number represents the leg size of the weld, which is the distance from the weld root to the face of the weld.
• Other Specifications: Other specifications, such as the weld length, spacing, and type of weld preparation, can be indicated on the weld symbol.

Types of Fillet Welds

There are several types of fillet welds, each with its own unique characteristics and applications. Some of the most common types of fillet welds include:

• Standard Fillet Weld: This is the most basic type of fillet weld. It is simply a weld that is applied to the edge of two pieces of metal at a right angle.
• Staggered Fillet Weld: This type of weld is used when the weld is to be applied to a long joint. The weld is staggered so that there is a continuous weld along the entire length of the joint.
• Intermittent Fillet Weld: This type of weld is used when the weld is only required at specific points along the joint. The weld is applied in short sections, with gaps between each section.

Understanding Fillet Weld Symbol Examples

Here are some examples of fillet weld symbols and their meanings:

Symbol	Description
	Standard fillet weld, 6mm leg size.
	Standard fillet weld, 10mm leg size, on the arrow side only.
	Standard fillet weld, 8mm leg size, 50mm long, on the arrow side only.

Conclusion

Understanding fillet weld symbols is a critical skill for anyone working with welding drawings. By understanding the different components of the symbol, you can accurately interpret the welding requirements and ensure that the welds are made correctly.