Weld-All-Around Symbol
The weld-all-around symbol is a small circle drawn where the arrow meets the reference line. It means the weld continues all the way around the joint, as with a tube welded to a plate. It is a supplementary symbol: it adds to the weld symbol on the line, which still sets the weld type, size and side.
How to read the weld-all-around symbol
Without the circle, a weld symbol applies to the joint up to an abrupt change in direction. With the circle, the weld carries on around corners and curves until it meets its start, so a square tube gets all four sides and a round post gets a full circle.
Arrow side and other side still read from the main symbol. A fillet below the line with an all-around circle means a fillet right round the joint on the arrow side.
What each dimension position means
| Position | Meaning |
|---|---|
| Circle at the junction | Weld continuously around the whole joint. |
| Weld symbol on the line | Sets weld type, size and side as usual. |
| Length | Normally not given: all around replaces a length. |
Example callout, read aloud
“Weld a 1/4-inch fillet on the arrow side, all the way around the joint, using gas metal arc welding.”
Example: reading the callout piece by piece
- Circle at the junction: all around.
- Fillet below the line, 1/4 left: 1/4-inch fillet on the arrow side.
- For a 2 × 2 inch square tube on a base plate: weld all four sides and wrap the corners, about 8 inches of weld.
Result: Weld a 1/4-inch fillet on the arrow side, all the way around the joint, using gas metal arc welding.
When it is used
- Posts, tubes and bosses welded to a base plate.
- Pipe stubs and nozzles welded into a shell.
- Sealing a part right round so moisture cannot get under it.
Common mistakes
- Stopping at the corners. All around means continuous through corners and changes of direction.
- Adding a length as well. All around already defines the extent; a length conflicts with it.
- Reading the circle as a spot weld. The all-around circle is at the arrow junction; a spot weld circle is on the reference line.
- Assuming it covers both sides. Side still comes from the main symbol.
Related weld symbols
- Field weld: The field flag also sits at the junction and often appears with all around.
- Fillet weld: Fillets are the commonest weld drawn all around.
- Spot weld: Do not mix up the all-around circle with the spot weld circle.
- Bevel groove weld: Bevel grooves on nozzles are often all around.
- Seam weld: A seam all around seals a lapped part.
Every weld symbol page: welding symbols chart
Calculators and further reading
Frequently asked questions
What does the circle on a weld symbol mean?
A circle where the arrow meets the reference line means weld all around the joint.
Does all around mean both sides?
No. It means around the joint on the side shown by the main weld symbol.
Can all around be combined with the field weld flag?
Yes. Both sit at the junction and the weld is made all around, in the field.
Do I need a length with all around?
No. All around defines the extent of the weld.
Sources
- AWS A2.4 Standard Symbols for Welding, Brazing, and Nondestructive Examination, American Welding Society
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