ISO 4063:2023 PDF

Overview - ISO 4063:2023 (Welding nomenclature and reference numbers)

ISO 4063:2023 establishes a standardized nomenclature and reference-numbering system for welding, brazing, soldering and thermal cutting processes. The fifth edition adds processes for the welding and thermal joining of plastics and updates previous editions. The system assigns a maximum three‑digit reference number to each process (one‑digit main process, two‑digit group, three‑digit sub‑group) and is intended to support computerization, drawings, working papers and welding procedure specifications (WPS).

Examples:

• ISO 4063 – 48 (Cold pressure welding)
• ISO 4063 – 522 + 15 (Gas laser welding combined with plasma arc welding)
• ISO 4063 – 131‑D (MIG welding with short‑circuit transfer)

Key topics and technical requirements

• Process numbering structure: main processes (1 digit), groups (2 digits), sub‑groups (3 digits); max three digits per process.
• Designation format: use “ISO 4063 – ” for full identification.
• Hybrid processes: combine process numbers with “+” when multiple processes operate simultaneously in the same area.
• Process variants: Annex A allows variant codes (letters/numbers) for transfer modes, multi‑electrode setups and other variants (e.g., transfer mode codes B, D, G, S, P).
• Scope coverage: welding (arc, resistance, friction, beam, plastics-specific, etc.), thermal cutting/gouging, brazing, soldering and weld‑brazing.
• Informative annexes: process variants, replaced/obsolete processes, and a list of US acronyms for cross‑reference.
• Intended use: to enable uniform international designation of processes for documentation, automation and specification drafting.

Practical applications and users

ISO 4063:2023 is practical for:

• Welding engineers and metallurgists - consistent process labelling in WPS and procedure specifications.
• Designers and drafters - standardized notation on engineering drawings and BOMs.
• Quality managers and inspectors - unambiguous process identification for inspection and certification.
• Software and PLM developers - database fields, CAD/PLM integrations and electronic records that require standard process codes.
• Procurement and training - clear purchase specifications and curriculum mapping for vocational training.

Common use cases: preparing WPS, tagging processes in CAD drawings, automating manufacturing instructions, creating searchable process libraries and cross‑referencing US/ISO terminology.

Related information

• Prepared by ISO/TC 44 (Welding and allied processes), Subcommittee SC 7 (Representation and terms).
• Annexes provide variant coding and mappings to replaced/obsolete processes and US acronyms for easier international alignment.

Keywords: ISO 4063:2023, welding nomenclature, reference numbers, welding processes, brazing, soldering, thermal cutting, welding procedure specifications, plastics welding, process numbering.