This specification prescribes requirements for the classification of surfacing electrodes for shielded metal arc welding. Solid bare electrodes and rods for surfacing are classified in AWS A5.21:2001, Specification for Bare Electrodes and Rods for Surfacing (see Clause A8 in Annex A).

Safety and health issues and concerns are beyond the scope of this standard and, therefore, are not fully addressed herein. Some safety and health information can be found in Clauses A5 and A9 in Annex A. Safety and health information is available from other sources, including, but not limited to ANSI Z49.1, Safety in Welding, Cutting, and Allied Processes, and applicable federal and state regulations.

This specification makes use of both U.S. Customary Units and the International System of Units (SI). The measurements are not exact equivalents; therefore, each system must be used independently of the other without combining in any way when referring to material properties. The specification with the designation A5.13 uses the U.S. Customary Units. The specification A5.13M uses the SI Units. The latter are shown within brackets [ ] or in appropriate columns in tables and figures. Standard dimensions based on either system may be used for sizing of filler metal or packaging or both under A5.13 or A5.13M specifications.