A welding inspector measures the size of a fillet weld after a 2F weld test.

2F Weld Test

ATS understands how significant and daunting a 2F weld test can be for welders. We seek to relieve prospective welders of some of the pressures involved in the certification process by opening our welding facilities for certification and quality testing.
Relatively new welders may opt to work in the horizontal position to lay a fillet weld. The popular 2F position gives the welder a full view of the weld area throughout the welding and cleaning processes. If certified to work in the 2F position, a welder automatically qualifies for work in the 1G and 1F positions, too. However, welders must prove they can navigate the challenges of fillet welding:
Reserve a Welding Booth

Welders have two main avenues for getting certification: through a licensed American Welding Society (AWS) testing facility or an employer. During the hiring process, a fabrication company may request a demonstration of an applicant’s abilities, especially if the potential hire does not have a current certification from a recognized licensing body. Clients can reserve an observation booth at an ATS facility that allows a welder room to work comfortably and safely. Our booths provide the ideal overhead lighting and protection for clients who wish to observe a welder’s technique.

Welders will have access to the equipment for popular welding methods, such as GMAW/MIG, GTAW/TIG, FCAW, and SMAW/stick. In addition, welders can purchase a weld coupon, such as a pipe or plate, from our stock of popular materials.
Schedule a Certified Weld Inspector
ATS offers more than just a venue for weld certification but also the services of our experts with decades of combined training and experience. Our welding staff includes AWS-certified weld inspectors (CWIs) who can recommend certification based on observations and test results.

A CWI can observe the welder throughout the entire process:

Submit a Weld Coupon for Testing

After the weld is complete, the welded pieces are divided into segments to test for defects, such as cracks, pitting, slag, and spatter, that may disqualify a weld for certification. Fillet welds are prone to issues related to weld size, such as overlap, undercutting, and a lack of fusion. However, some defects may require a more thorough approach.

The ATS weld testing lab is A2LA-accredited to perform mechanical and nondestructive tests. Our qualified chemists and metallurgists can subject coupons to a battery of nondestructive and destructive inspections and evaluations.

Different certification bodies recommend various tests to uncover the limits of a weld coupon, such as bend, tensile, hardness, and corrosion testing. ATS can verify if a weld meets standards set by organizations such as AWS, ASME, ISO, and EN. We also offer a variety of inspections that leave the testing coupon intact, such as liquid penetrant testing and radiography.

Get to Know ATS
Founded in 1967, ATS began as a start-up led by three engineers. Our humble beginnings instilled in us an appreciation for individuals who work toward continual improvement. We encourage our staff of engineers, technicians, chemists, and inspectors to expand their skills through training and ongoing education. Additionally, our organization meets quality standards:
In addition to our A2LA accreditations in mechanical and nondestructive testing, ATS labs also hold accreditations in:
Contact Us
Call +1 (888) 287-5227 or complete the request form on this page to schedule a 2F weld test observed by a qualified CWI today. If a welder achieves 2F certification, they can prepare for additional training and return for certification testing in a more complicated position:
Learn more about our welding services.

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