This specification covers the minimum welding requirements applicable to welded structures used in the railroad industry. It is not intended to apply to tank car tanks nor to the welding of rails. Recommended practices for welding railroad rails and related components are included in D15.2, Recommended Practice for the Welding of Rails and Related Rail Components for Use by Rail Vehicles. Specifications for welding tank car tanks and components welded directly thereto are outlined in the AAR Manual of Standards and Specifications for Welding, Section C—Part III, Specification M-1002 (AAR M-1002 C-III).

Welding symbols shall be those shown in the latest edition of AWS A2.4, Standard Symbols for Welding, Brazing, and Nondestructive Examination.

This standard makes use of both U.S. Customary Units and the International System of Units (SI). The latter are shown within brackets [ ] or in the appropriate columns in tables and figures. The measurements may not be exact equivalents; therefore, each system must be used independently.

Safety and health issues and concerns are beyond the scope of this standard and therefore are not fully addressed herein. Safety and health information is available from other sources, including, but not limited to, ANSI Z49.1, Safety in Welding, Cutting, and Allied Processes, and applicable federal, state, and local regulations.

This specification may involve hazardous materials, operations, and equipment. The specification does not purport to address all of the safety problems associated with its use. It is the responsibility of the user to establish safety and health practices. The user should determine the applicability of any regulatory limitations prior to use.