This WPS covers SMAW (stick) pipe welding on 3" Schedule 80 A106 Gr B in the 2G (horizontal fixed) position. The classic E6010/E7018 combination is used — E6010 for the root and hot pass (cellulosic electrode for deep penetration), and E7018 for fill and cap (low-hydrogen for mechanical properties). This is the workhorse procedure for carbon steel pipe in the petroleum and power industries. IronKit generated it with an API 1104 appendix reference since the contractor works under both ASME Section IX and API 1104 jurisdiction. The procedure was written for a pipe crew running small-bore utility piping in a refinery turnaround.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why use E6010 for the root pass?
E6010 is a cellulosic (fast-freeze) electrode that creates a forceful, deep-penetrating arc. It is the standard root pass electrode for pipe welding because it burns through mill scale, handles open-root joints well, and produces a convex root reinforcement that resists suck-back.
Why switch to E7018 for fill and cap?
E7018 is a low-hydrogen electrode with better mechanical properties than E6010 — higher toughness, lower risk of hydrogen cracking, and smoother bead profile. The combination of E6010 root + E7018 fill is the industry standard for carbon steel pipe under ASME and API codes.
What is the 2G pipe position?
2G means the pipe axis is vertical and the weld joint is horizontal. The welder works around the pipe in the horizontal plane — the bottom and sides require different techniques than the top. 2G qualification covers both 1G (horizontal rolled) and 2G fixed positions.
Does IronKit support API 1104 WPS format?
Yes. IronKit generates WPS documents that reference API 1104 essential variables alongside ASME Section IX variables. For pipeline work under API jurisdiction, the WPS includes the API-specific requirements.