This standard describes manual, semiautomatic, and automatic field welding by the metal arc-welding processes for steel water pipe manufactured in accordance with ANSI/AWWA C200, Steel Water Pipe—6 In. (150 mm) and Larger. This standard describes field-performed full circumferential welding of three types of pipe joints: (1) lap joints, (2) butt joints, and (3) butt-strap joints. This standard also applies to other welding required in field fabrication and installation of specials and appurtenances. However, when possible, pipe fabrications and fittings should be performed by the manufacturer at a manufacturing facility. The design of field-welded joints is not covered within this standard.

This standard recognizes AWS D1.1 as the supporting document. AWWA C206 references subclauses within the AWS D1.1 clauses on Prequalification of WPSs, Qualification, Fabrication, Inspection, and Tubular Structures. When AWWA C206 is silent regarding a requirement listed in AWS D1.1, such requirement is not required in AWWA C206. Although AWS D1.1 supports AWWA C206 in many sections, when there is a conflict between these documents then AWWA C206 shall govern.

Welding of gasketed joints may require modification to the parameters of this welding standard. This standard can be referenced in documents for field welding of steel water pipe. The stipulations of this standard apply when this document has been referenced and then only to field welding of steel water pipe.