AWS WHC-4.01:2010

Carbon and Low Alloy Steels
Scope : Carbon and low-alloy steels represent over 95% of the construction and fabrication metals used worldwide. Good mechanical properties over a wide range of strengths combined with relatively low cost and ease of fabrication account for the widespread use of these steels. These attributes make carbon and low-alloy steels excellent choices for use in appliances, vehicles, bridges, buildings, machinery, pressure vessels, offshore structures, railroad equipment, ships, and a wide range of consumer products. The extensive use of these steels means that welding, brazing, and thermal cutting are essential processes of continuing importance. This chapter contains information on steel compositions and properties, weldability considerations, recommended practices and procedures for welding, brazing, and thermal cutting of carbon and low-alloy steels; and also provides guidance on how to avoid problems when welding these steels. A section on typical applications illustrates the scope and the importance of high-integrity a welding of carbon steels and low-alloy steels