This is the eighth edition of CSA Standard W59, Welded Steel Construction (Metal Arc Welding). It supersedes the previous editions published in 1989, 1984, 1982, 1977, 1970, 1946, and 1940. Unlike the 1989 edition, which was published separately in yard/pound (imperial) and SI (metric) versions, the 2003 edition consolidates the units. SI (metric) units govern in this eighth edition. Comparable approximate imperial units are provided in parentheses, where applicable, and are included only for information purposes. All text, tables, and figures in this edition have been completely reformatted electronically.

1. Scope

1.1 This Standard covers welding requirements for carbon and low-alloy welded steel construction, with the exception of those types listed in Clause 1.2. Requirements that are essentially common to all such structures are covered in Clauses 1 to 10, while provisions applying specifically to statically loaded structures and to cyclically loaded structures are included in Clauses 11 and 12, respectively.

1.2 This Standard is not intended to apply to pressure vessels or to structures governed by special codes such as those of Lloyds, the American Petroleum Institute, the American Society of Mechanical Engineers, or the American Water Works Association. This Standard does not cover welding of stainless steel. Note: When welding stainless steel, other standards such as AWS D1.6 could be referenced.

1.3 This Standard includes provisions for shielded metal arc welding (SMAW), submerged arc welding (SAW), gas metal arc welding (GMAW), flux-cored arc welding (FCAW), metal-cored arc welding (MCAW), electroslag welding (ESW), electrogas welding (EGW), and stud welding (SW) processes.

1.4 The provisions of this Standard are not intended for use with steels having a specified minimum yield strength over 700 MPa (100 000 psi).

1.5 This Standard applies to the welding of base metals 3 mm (1/8 in) and thicker. In cases where base metals less than 3 mm (1/8 in) thick are to be welded to base metals 3 mm (1/8 in) and thicker, the requirements of AWS D1.3 and this Standard apply. In the case of any conflict between AWS D1.3 and this Standard, the requirements of this Standard govern. Note: In cases where base metals less than 3 mm (1/8 in) thick are to be welded to base metals less than 3 mm (1/8 in), the requirements of AWS D1.3 may be appropriate.

1.6 The values given in SI (metric) units are the standard. The values given in parentheses are for information only.

1.7 This Standard does not purport to address safety problems associated with welding and welding practices. Note: CSA Standard W117.2 addresses safety in welding, cutting, and allied processes, and should be followed in addition to any applicable workplace health and safety legislation in effect. It is the responsibility of the user of this Standard to establish appropriate safety and health practices and to determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.