I would go straight to the source for some clarification and explain the differences between GMAW (short arc & spray arc) and FCAW (gas shielded & self shielded).
It appears to be poorly written by someone without proper knowledge of the various processes and how they relate to D1.1.
Other than that it would not be wise for us to comment on what EXACTLY they will or will not allow.
Just my two tin pennies worth.
Have a Great Day, Brent
I agree with Brent and would interpret the 2 paragraphs as follows:
1. Only SMAW, SAW or FCAW with shielding are permitted.
2. GMAW with solid wire is not permitted unless specifically reviewed and accepted by the Purchaser.
I see no problem with using GMAW spray transfer as long as it really is spray transfer (i.e. droplet size is smaller than the wire diameter, and appropriate shielding gas and current density for spray transfer is used). I see so many vendor procedures submitted for review that are written for "all positions" welding in "spray transfer" mode using 75%Ar25%CO2.
I did miss one of your questions,
I like GMAW spray arc for many applications on structural welding in the shop. It is smooth, fast, NO clean up, and meets D1.1 just as FCAW or SMAW.
One problem, as AL has pointed out many times, is finding people who can pass a fillet weld test with it. While you can just give them a groove test, that leaves an important flaw in the product. Bottom line is most people can not weld a 1/4" to 5/16" single pass fillet with spray arc and get good penetration.
Also, GMAW spray is limited to flat and horizontal. The highly fluid state does not lend itself to out of position work at all. While most shop structural work is rolled and always down it is not ALWAYS so. There are times you have no choice but to weld vertical or overhead.
Have a Great Day, Brent