AWS A5.21/A5.21M:2011

This specification prescribes the requirements for classification of bare electrodes and rods for surfacing. Solid surfacing electrodes and rods are classified on the basis of the composition of the material as manufactured. Metal cored and flux cored composite (tubular) surfacing electrodes and rods are classified on the basis of the chemical composition of the deposited weld metal. Tubular tungsten carbide bare rods are classified on the basis of the mesh range, quantity, and composition of the tungsten carbide granules. A guide is appended to the specification as a source of information concerning the characteristics and applications of the classified electrodes.
Scope : 1.1 This specification prescribes the requirements for the classification of bare electrodes and rods for surfacing. The specification does not provide for classification of electrode-flux combinations for submerged arc welding. 1.2 Safety and health issues and concerns are beyond the scope of this standard and, therefore, are not fully addressed herein. Some safety and health information can be found in the nonmandatory annex Clauses A5 and A10. Safety and health information is available from other sources, including, but not limited to, ANSI Z49.1, Safety in Welding, Cutting, and Allied Processes,1 and applicable federal and state regulations. 1.3 This specification makes use of both U.S. Customary Units and the International System of Units (SI). The measurements are not exact equivalents; therefore, each system must be used independently of the other without combining in any way when referring to material. The specification with the designation A5.21 uses U.S. Customary Units. The specificationA5.21M uses SI Units. The latter are shown within brackets [ ] or in appropriate columns in tables and figures. Standard dimensions based on either system may be used for sizing of filler metal or packaging or both under A5.21 or A5.21M specifications.