Welding Position Guide: 1G Through 6G Explained
Welding position determines which electrodes you can use, what amperage settings work, and how you manipulate the puddle. The same rod behaves completely differently in the flat position versus overhead. Understanding the position system lets you select the right rod and adjust your technique before you strike an arc.
The Position Numbering System
Welding positions are identified by a number and letter. The number indicates the orientation, and the letter indicates the joint type.
1G / 1F. Flat position. The easiest position. Gravity holds the puddle in place. G means groove weld, F means fillet weld.
2G / 2F. Horizontal position. The weld axis is horizontal but the weld face is vertical. Gravity pulls the puddle down, so you need to manage heat to prevent sagging.
3G / 3F. Vertical position. Welding up or down on a vertical surface. Vertical-up provides better penetration. Vertical-down is faster but with less penetration.
4G / 4F. Overhead position. The most difficult position. Gravity pulls the puddle away from the joint. Requires lower amperage and faster travel speed.
5G. Pipe welding with the pipe fixed horizontally. You weld around the pipe, transitioning through flat, vertical, and overhead as you go.
6G. Pipe welding with the pipe fixed at a 45-degree angle. The most difficult pipe position and the most common certification test.
Which Rods Work in Which Positions
The third digit in a stick electrode classification tells you the position capability.
EXX1X (1 in the third position). All positions. Examples: E6010, E6011, E6013, E7014, E7018.
EXX2X (2 in the third position). Flat and horizontal only. Examples: E7024, E6020. These rods have heavy iron powder coatings that produce large, fluid puddles unsuitable for vertical or overhead.
For MIG and flux-core wire, position capability is determined by the wire type and settings rather than a classification digit. Most solid MIG wire works in all positions at appropriate settings. Self-shielded flux-core wires like E71T-11 and E71T-8 are classified for all-position use.
Technique Adjustments by Position
Flat: Use the highest amperage in the rod's range. Wider weave patterns are acceptable. This is where you get the fastest deposition rate.
Horizontal: Reduce amperage 5-10% from flat settings. Angle the electrode slightly upward (5-10 degrees) to counteract gravity pulling the puddle down. Watch for undercut on the top toe.
Vertical-up: Reduce amperage 10-15% from flat. Use a weave or triangle pattern to control the puddle. Let the puddle freeze slightly before adding more metal. Vertical-up is required for most structural code work because it provides full penetration.
Vertical-down: Fast travel speed, low heat input. Produces shallow penetration. Acceptable for non-structural work and sheet metal. E6010 and E6011 are the best rods for downhill work.
Overhead: Reduce amperage 15-20% from flat. Keep the arc tight (short arc length). Use a slight weave to prevent the puddle from dripping. Work in short sections. This position is physically demanding and produces more spatter in your face area. Full protective gear is mandatory.
Classification system defined by AWS D1.1, AWS welding position standards.