EN ISO 3581:2023 PDF

Overview

EN ISO 3581:2023 - "Welding consumables - Covered electrodes for manual metal arc welding of stainless and heat-resisting steels - Classification" is the CEN-adopted version of ISO 3581:2023. The standard defines a classification system for covered electrodes used in manual metal arc (MMA) welding of stainless and heat‑resisting steels. Classification is based primarily on the all‑weld metal chemical composition, type of electrode covering, and relevant mechanical properties of the deposited weld metal (as‑welded or heat‑treated).

This edition is a combined standard allowing two independent classification systems:

• System A (ISO 3581‑A) - classification according to nominal composition (mainly aligned with EN 1600).
• System B (ISO 3581‑B) - classification according to alloy type (common in Pacific Rim practice).

Annex B provides guidance on weld metal ferrite content, an important parameter when welding stainless steels.

Key topics and requirements

• Scope and terminology: standardized terms and definitions for welding consumables and classification principles.
• Dual classification systems: clear labeling rules - clauses/tables marked “A” apply only to system A, “B” only to system B, and unlabelled material applies to both.
• Symbols and product designation: standardized symbols for product/process, chemical composition of all‑weld metal, electrode covering type, nominal electrode efficiency and current type, and welding position.
• Chemical analysis: requirements for verifying all‑weld metal composition to meet the classification.
• Mechanical property tests: requirements for tensile, impact and other mechanical tests on weld metal in as‑welded or heat‑treated conditions.
• Fillet weld test and rounding procedure: procedural provisions for performance verification and classification rounding rules.
• Retests and delivery conditions: rules for retesting and technical delivery documentation.
• Informative annexes: types of coverings (Annex A) and considerations on ferrite content (Annex B).

Applications and users

EN ISO 3581:2023 is intended for anyone specifying, producing, testing or purchasing covered electrodes for MMA welding of stainless and heat‑resisting steels:

• Welding consumable manufacturers - to classify and mark products.
• Welding engineers and fabricators - to select electrodes based on weld metal chemistry and mechanical performance.
• Quality & inspection teams - to verify conformance, perform chemical and mechanical tests.
• Procurement and contractors - to write clear specifications and ensure compatibility with project requirements.
• Standards bodies and certification organizations - for harmonized product classification across markets.

Related standards

• ISO 3581:2023 (base document)
• EN 1600 (related to nominal composition approach)
• ISO 2401 (terminology related to nominal electrode efficiency)
• ISO/TC 44 (technical committee on welding and allied processes)

Keywords: EN ISO 3581:2023, covered electrodes, manual metal arc welding, stainless steels, heat‑resisting steels, electrode classification, weld metal composition, electrode covering, ferrite content.