Pipe Welding (SMAW, GMAW or TGAW) - 6G

Our Shielded Metal Arc Welding (SMAW), Gas Metal Arc Welding (GMAW), or Tungsten Gas Arc Welding (TGAW) 6G Welding course consists of 480 instructional hours designed to build strong foundational and practical welding skills. With our flexible rolling enrollment, you can join at any time and progress at a pace that fits your schedule while still completing all required instructional hours.

THE PROCESS: SMAW, GMAW, or TGAW 6G pipe welding is a high-skill, all-position test where a pipe is fixed at a 45° angle, requiring, for example, the use of 6010 for the root pass and 7018 for fill/cap passes. It simulates restricted, non-rotatable field conditions, demanding proficiency in uphill progression, uphill, and overhead techniques.

WHAT YOU LEARN: Students in an SMAW 6G class learn how to safely and effectively perform arc welding on a pipe. A SMAW 6G welding class teaches advanced pipe welding techniques where a fixed pipe is angled at 45 degrees, simulating difficult, high-pressure field conditions. Students master vertical-up welding using E6010 for open-root passes and E7018 for hot, fill, and cap passes, focusing on full penetration, proper heat control, and ASME/AWS code compliance.

CURRICULUM: Swaby Academy uses industry‑standard welding curriculum for each welding process, supported by an online learning platform that provides in‑depth instruction on welding safety, personal protective equipment (PPE), and core welding principles. Students are quizzed and graded on the material they study, ensuring they understand both the theory and the practical foundations required for success in the lab.

SCHEDULE: Classes are held Monday through Thursday, and on Saturdays. We offer morning, afternoon, and evening classes. Please contact us to build a schedule that works for you. We’re committed to flexibility and your success.

DURATION: Earn your AWS SMAW 6G welding certification in as little as 480 hours at Swaby Academy. Our flexible model allows you to customize your class schedule, with each welding process running approximately 30 weeks based on your pace and availability, giving you control over your training timeline.

PREREQUISITE: Prerequisites for SMAW, GMAW, or TGAW 6G pipe welding course requires intermediate to advanced experience, including prior 3G/4G structural certifications or 1G/2G pipe welding proficiency. Candidates must demonstrate strong, open-root welding skills using 6010/7018 electrodes before taking this advanced, all-position course.

TESTING: The 6G weld test is a high-level certification requiring a pipe fixed at a 45-degree angle, forcing the welder to combine flat, horizontal, vertical, and overhead positions. It typically involves a 6-inch or 2-inch Schedule 80 pipe, using SMAW (stick) with a 6010 root and 7018 fill/cap, or GTAW (TIG) root/fill/cap, aiming for full penetration, a sound root pass, and a clean, consistent cover pass. Successful candidates receive the AWS SMAW 6G certificate, making them a top credentialed all-position welder. All test fees are included in your course cost, ensuring a seamless path from training to credentialing.

REQUIRED PPE: For this course, students with need required PPE's such as welding helmet, gloves, FR welding jacket, and work boots. Students can purchase their PPE packet from Swaby Group. All tools and welding consumables are provided by Swaby Academy as part of the course.

PAYMENT: You can pay for your course online, or you can mail or hand-deliver a check, or pay cash at our office in Orange, Virginia. All payments must be made before the start of the program.

Address: Swaby Academy, 385 Waugh Blvd, Orange, VA 22960

FINANCIAL AID: Students are encouraged to explore financial support options through our grants, scholarships and funding page, where we maintain an updated list of ongoing scholarships and grants dedicated specifically to welding and other skilled trades. These opportunities can help reduce tuition costs and make training more accessible for individuals beginning their journey in the trades.

INTERNATIONAL COST: Cost for International students includes all necessary PPE.