An SFA designation before a filler metal specification indicates adoption by which organization?

• A. ASME
• B. ISO
• C. CSA
• D. AWS

Answer: (A)

Seeing an SFA prefix in front of a filler metal specification means ASME has adopted that AWS filler metal standard for use in its codes and rules. In practice, AWS develops the filler metal specifications, and ASME includes those specifications within its Boiler and Pressure Vessel Code and related welding requirements by prefixing them with SFA to indicate ASME adoption. This tells you the filler metal can be used under ASME code provisions, assuming all other code requirements (like preheat, interpass temperature, PWHT, etc.) are satisfied. The other organizations have their own ways of incorporating or prefixing standards, so an SFA designation specifically signals ASME adoption.