AWS A2.4 Section 7.3 · AWS D1.1:2025 Figure 5.1

U-Groove Weld Symbol

The U-groove symbol appears in AWS A2.4 Figure 4.1, while AWS A2.4 Section 7.3.3 specifies root radius and root face by cross-section, detail, or other data referenced in the tail. AWS D1.1:2025 Figure 5.1 supplies structural CJP reference values.

How to read a U-groove weld symbol — U-shape on the reference line, tail-referenced radius/root-face data, symmetric preparation, and prequalified CJP joint details per D1.1:2025.

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U-Groove Weld Symbol — Anatomy

Single-U — 45°, D=3/4"

Joint cross-section

Double-U groove

Tail references radius detail

Key rule (AWS A2.4 Section 7.3.3): Groove radii and root faces of U- and J-groove welds are specified by cross-section, detail, or other data with reference in the tail of the welding symbol.

How to Read

U-Groove Symbol Dimensions

The U-groove symbol looks like a U sitting on the reference line — a curved bottom with two vertical sides. Unlike bevel and J-groove welds, the U-groove prepares both members symmetrically, so no broken arrow is needed.

What Goes on the Symbol

Root opening (R) — INSIDE the U symbol.

Groove angle (α) — above or below the weld symbol as appropriate per A2.4 §7.3.2.

Groove depth (D) — to the LEFT for PJP (partial joint penetration) welds.

Weld size (S) — in parentheses to the LEFT for PJP. Omitting D and S specifies CJP.

Where Radius and Root Face Are Specified

Root radius (r) and root face (f) — per A2.4 §7.3.3, these are specified by cross-section, detail, or other data with reference in the tail. Use the tail reference to identify the controlling U-groove radius/root-face data.

Arrow Side vs. Other Side

When the U-groove symbol sits below the reference line, the preparation is on the arrow side of the joint. Above the line means other side. Both above and below (double-U) means both members are prepared from both sides.

No broken arrow: Unlike J-groove and bevel-groove welds, a U-groove symbol uses a straight arrow. Both members get the curved preparation, so there is no ambiguity about which member to prepare.

D1.1:2025 Figure 5.1

Prequalified U-Groove CJP Joints

D1.1:2025 Figure 5.1 Type 6 (single-U) specifies prequalified CJP butt joint details. All prequalified U-groove CJP joints require backgouge from the second side before depositing the back weld.

Parameter	SMAW	GMAW / FCAW
Joint designation	B-U6	B-U6-GF
Groove angle (α)	45° (pos. A) · 20° (pos. F, OH)	20° (pos. A)
Root face (f)	1/8" (3 mm)	1/8" (3 mm)
Root radius (r)	1/4" (6 mm)	1/4" (6 mm)
Root opening (R)	0–1/8" (0–3 mm)	0–1/8" (0–3 mm)
Backgouge	Required	Required

Economy note: U-groove preparation reduces weld metal volume significantly compared to double-V on thick plate. The curved walls converge tighter, meaning less filler metal, less heat input, and less distortion. The cost is machining — U-groove cannot be flame-cut like a V-groove.

Common Questions

U-Groove Weld Symbol FAQ

What is the difference between a U-groove and a V-groove weld?

Both prepare both members and are used for butt joints. A V-groove uses two straight angled cuts meeting at a point or small root face. A U-groove uses curved preparations — each member gets a rounded (U-shaped) cut instead of a straight bevel. This reduces weld metal volume significantly on thick plate because the curved walls converge tighter than straight V-faces. The tradeoff is that U-groove preparation requires machining, while V-groove can be flame-cut. The symbol looks like a U sitting on the reference line.

Can root radius and root face appear on the U-groove symbol?

AWS A2.4 §7.3.3 says groove radii and root faces for U- and J-groove welds shall be specified by cross-section, detail, or other data with reference in the tail of the welding symbol. Use the U-groove symbol for the groove type and the tail reference to point to the controlling radius/root-face data.

What are the prequalified U-groove joint details in D1.1:2025?

D1.1:2025 Figure 5.1 Type 6 (single-U) specifies prequalified CJP butt joint details. The joint designation is B-U6 for SMAW and B-U6-GF for GMAW/FCAW. For SMAW: groove angle α = 45° (position A) or 20° (positions F, OH). For GMAW/FCAW: α = 20° (position A). Root face f = 1/8" (3 mm). Root radius r = 1/4" (6 mm). Root opening R = 0 to 1/8". All prequalified U-groove CJP joints require backgouge.

Why use a U-groove instead of a V-groove or J-groove?

A U-groove prepares both members (versus J-groove which prepares one member only). Use a U-groove when both sides of the joint need the curved preparation for symmetry or when access from one side is limited. Compared to a double-V groove, a U-groove uses less weld metal and causes less distortion on very thick plate (typically over 1"). The curved root geometry gives better fusion control at the root. The main disadvantage over V-groove is the need for machining or gouging equipment.

Related Reference

U-Groove Weld Symbol

U-Groove Symbol Dimensions

What Goes on the Symbol

Where Radius and Root Face Are Specified

Arrow Side vs. Other Side

Prequalified U-Groove CJP Joints

U-Groove Weld Symbol FAQ

More Weld Symbol Pages