This code contains the requirements for arc welding of structural sheet/strip steels, including cold formed members, hereafter collectively referred to as “sheet steel,” which are equal to or less than 3/16 in [5 mm] in nominal thickness. In addition, welding hollow structural section (HSS) also called tubular members with wall thickness less than 1/8 in [3 mm] are included in the scope of this code. Design requirements for HSS member connections are not in the scope of this code. When this code is stipulated in contract documents, conformance with all its provisions shall be required, except for those provisions that the Engineer or contract documents specifically modifies or exempts.

When used in conjunction with AWS D1.1/D1.1M, conformance with the applicable provisions of Annex A of AWS D1.3/D1.3M shall apply (see also Table 1.1). Two weld types unique to sheet steel, arc spot and arc seam, are included in this code.

Applicable Materials. This code is applicable to the welding of structural sheet steels to other structural sheet steels or to supporting structural steel members. 

General Requirements. The fundamental premise of the code is to provide general requirements applicable to any situation. Acceptance criteria for production welds different from those specified in the code shall be permitted for a particular application, provided they are suitably documented by the proposer and approved by the Engineer. These alternate acceptance criteria shall be based upon evaluation of suitability for service using past experience, experimental evidence, or engineering analysis considering material type, service load effects, and environmental factors. 

Approval. All references to the need for approval shall be interpreted to mean approval by the Engineer, defined as the duly designated person who acts for and in behalf of the owner on all matters within the scope of this code. Deviations from code requirements shall require the Engineer’s approval.