what does this symbol mean?
AWS A2.4 Two small arcs side by side below a reference line

Surfacing weld

Two small arcs on the reference line: a surfacing weld, a layer of weld metal deposited on a surface.

How to read it

Surfacing is the deposition of filler metal on a metal surface to obtain desired properties or dimensions. It is used to apply a hard, wear-resistant layer of metal to the surfaces or edges of worn-out parts, which is why it is also known as hardfacing or wearfacing, and to build up worn shafts, gears or cutting edges.

This explains what a symbol specifies on a drawing. It isn't welding instruction, and a drawing's own notes and the governing code take precedence.

More welding symbols

Sources

  • Steelworker, Volume 1, NAVEDTRA 14250, 1996, Naval Education and Training Professional Development and Technology Center, U.S. Navy (Internet Archive), Chapter 3, Drawings and specifications
  • Welding Theory and Application, TM 9-237, 1967, Department of the Army (Internet Archive), Glossary

Last reviewed September 27, 2026 by Rory Hansen. How we research

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