What are the welding positions from 1G to 6G?

Welding positions are defined by CSA W59 and ASME Section IX. Each position tests a different skill of the welder:

For sheet metal and plates:

• 1G (Flat): The piece is horizontal, welding from above. Easiest position, maximum deposition
• 2G (Horizontal): Welding on a vertical joint, in the horizontal axis
• 3G (Vertical): Welding on a vertical joint, bottom to top (uphill) or top to bottom (downhill)
• 4G (Overhead): Welding overhead, the most difficult position

For pipe:

• 1G: Horizontal pipe that rotates (continuous rotation) — flat welding
• 2G: Vertical fixed pipe — horizontal welding
• 5G: Horizontal fixed pipe — the welder goes around the pipe, combining horizontal, vertical, and overhead positions
• 6G: Pipe inclined at 45°, fixed — the most demanding position, combining all positions. 6G certification is the most versatile and most valued by employers

The positions assessed are those prescribed by the body running the test (Emploi-Québec for personal qualification, CWB for CSA W47.1) or by the employer's WPS: the platform publishes no list of exam positions. One published test is the Class A certificate for pressure vessels: a 2-inch nominal steel pipe in the 6G position inclined at 45°, checked by radiography under ASME Section IX (Government of Quebec).