AWS A2.4 §13 · Flanged Joints

Edge Weld Symbol

How to read an edge weld symbol — the two parallel lines indicating a weld joining flanged or parallel edges. Common in sheet metal, less common in structural steel. When to combine with melt-through.

Edge Weld Symbol — Anatomy
bracket shape per A2.4
Basic edge weld
1/8 6 size left, length right
1/8" size, 6" length
+ melt-through (CJP)
Edge + melt-through = CJP
Not a groove weld: Edge welds join flanged or parallel edges without machined preparation. Square groove welds join machined flat edges with controlled root opening. Different symbols, different joints, different applications.

Edge Weld Symbol Dimensions

Per AWS A2.4 §13, the edge weld symbol is two short parallel vertical lines on the reference line. It represents a weld that fuses the full thickness of both member edges.

Where Each Dimension Goes

Size — to the LEFT when specified. This is the weld width or buildup thickness.

Length — to the RIGHT. The extent of the edge weld along the joint.

Joint Types

Parallel edge joint — two members with edges aligned side by side. The weld fuses the edges together.

Flanged butt joint — thin members with edges flanged (bent) to create a preparation for welding from one side.

Flanged corner joint — one or both members flanged at a corner. The flange creates material for the weld.

Combining with Melt-Through

When CJP is required on a flanged joint welded from one side, add the melt-through symbol (filled semicircle) on the opposite side of the reference line. This combination tells the welder that full penetration with visible root reinforcement is required.

D1.1 scope note: D1.1 does not have a dedicated edge weld clause. Edge welds in structural steel appear mainly on miscellaneous light attachments. For sheet steel edge welds, AWS D1.3 is the governing standard.

Edge Weld Symbol FAQ

What is an edge weld symbol?
An edge weld symbol consists of two short parallel vertical lines (like a bracket) placed above or below the reference line. It indicates a weld joining the edges of two or more members in a parallel, flanged butt, or flanged corner joint. The full thickness of both edges is fused together. Edge welds are more common in sheet metal fabrication than structural steel.
What is the difference between an edge weld and a square groove weld?
A square groove weld has machined flat edges with a controlled root opening for structural butt joints. An edge weld has flanged or parallel edges fused without machined preparation, common in light gauge sheet metal work. The square groove symbol is two parallel lines with defined root opening dimensions. The edge weld symbol also shows parallel lines but is used on flanged or parallel edge joints, not machined butt joints.
When should you combine the edge weld with the melt-through symbol?
When CJP (complete joint penetration) is required on a flanged joint and you are welding from one side only, add the melt-through symbol (filled semicircle) on the opposite side of the reference line. This tells the welder that full penetration with visible root reinforcement is required. The melt-through symbol confirms that the weld must melt completely through to the back side of the flanged joint.
Does AWS D1.1 cover edge welds?
D1.1 does not have a dedicated edge weld clause. Edge welds appear primarily in sheet metal work governed by AWS D1.3 (Structural Welding Code — Sheet Steel). In D1.1 scope, edge welds may appear on miscellaneous light attachments but are not a primary structural weld type. When they do appear, the general workmanship requirements of D1.1 apply.