Weld-All-Around Symbol
How to read the weld-all-around symbol — the open circle at the arrow junction that tells the welder to continue the weld around the entire joint periphery. When to use it, when pipe welds don't need it.
Weld-All-Around Symbol Placement
The weld-all-around symbol is a supplementary symbol — it modifies another weld symbol rather than standing alone. It is always a small open circle placed at the junction where the arrow meets the reference line.
What It Specifies
Extent only. The circle means "weld the entire joint periphery continuously." It does not specify weld type, size, or process. Those come from the primary weld symbol on the reference line (fillet, groove, etc.).
Where It Sits
At the arrow-reference line junction — the exact point where the arrow line meets the reference line. Not midway along the reference line and not at the tail end. This is the same location where the field weld flag sits.
Combining with Field Weld
The weld-all-around circle and the field weld flag can appear at the same junction simultaneously. The flag sits above the junction while the circle surrounds it. This combination means: weld the entire periphery, and do it in the field.
Where Weld-All-Around Is Used
The weld-all-around symbol appears on joints where the weld must trace the complete perimeter of a connection. Common structural applications include:
| Application | Typical Weld Type | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Tube-to-plate | Fillet (most common) or groove | HSS columns to base plates, handrail posts |
| Gusset plates | Fillet weld around perimeter | Bracing connections, stiffener plates |
| Pipe penetrations | Fillet or groove on reinforcement plate | Reinforcement ring around pipe through plate |
| Cope reinforcement | Fillet weld around cope edge | Beam web cope holes in seismic connections |
| Seal welds | Fillet or groove for leak-tight closure | Tank nozzles, pressure boundary penetrations |