According to the AWS D1.1 Structural Welding Code, which welds can be wet or dry and are intended to be suitable for design stresses?

• A. Class A
• B. Class B
• C. Class C
• D. Class D

Answer: (A)

Welding classifications in AWS D1.1 tell you which welds are allowed to carry design loads. The class designated for welds intended to be used under design stresses is the one you rely on whenever a joint must meet structural strength requirements. These welds are considered suitable for design stresses regardless of whether they end up in a wet or dry service environment, because the code’s focus is on meeting the proper strength and acceptance criteria, not on moisture alone. Other classes cover welds that aren’t intended to carry design stresses, such as temporary or noncritical joints. So, the welds that can be wet or dry and are intended to be suitable for design stresses are Class A welds.