Initial Test.- The following initial tests on each brand of electrodes shall be carried out:

1. Cruciform Fillet Weld Tensile Test.- Three test specimens one each from test pieces prepared according to the procedures laid down in Appendix H-2 shall be tested in accordance with the method specified therein. If the diameter of the largest size of electrode manufactured is less than ¼ inch then two specimens only are required. Each specimen shall withstand an ultimate tensile load of not less than 36.5 x W x C tons; where W is the width of the test specimen and C is the effective size of the welds, both in inches. For the purpose of calculating the test load, the effective size of deep penetration fillet welds shall be taken either as 0.7 x (the average leg length plus 3/32 inch) or as the actual mean throat thickness plus 1/17 inch whichever is the greater.

2. (a) Fillet weld penetration test both legs of each fillet weld deposited shall be of equal E length with maximum allowable limits shown in the figures.

(b) The outer discards from the cruciform fillet weld test pieces prepared as above shall show a minimum penetration beyond the root of not less than 3/32 inches as shown in the figures.

The weld shall also be free from cracking, under-cut trapped slag, and porosity.