Using D1.5 - What would be the true and most correct fillet weld qualification test - for fillet welding only in conformance with 5.23.1.4 for a Lap Joint type of connection? For reference this is being used on a sole plate for a tub Girder project? ? To add some twist to the question is there a dihedral angle of the parts in a lap joint configuration? If So - what would that angle be? configuration?

5.23 (3) indicates fillet weld qualification tests (for fillet welding only) in conformance with 5.23.1.4.

5.23.1.4 Requirements for fillet weld qualification only on plate and rolled structural shapes, shall be as follows.

Paragraph 1 gives us options based on parts having a dihedral angle of 60° or less, and states that the welding operator shall weld a groove weld test plate as required by 5.23.2. This qualification shall also be valid for joints having a dihedral angle of 60° and greater.

With strict interpretation -- does this mean that for a lap joint - required to have the welder perform a groove weld test plate because the angle are technically less than 60° or maybe even considered all the way down to 0.

Paragraph 2 gives us options based on parts having a dihedral angle greater than 60°, but not exceeding 135°, and states that the welding operator shall weld a test plate in conformance with Option 1 or Option 2, depending upon the Contractor's choice, as follows:

(a) Option 1. Weld a T-test plate in conformance with Figure 5 .26.

(b) Option 2. Weld a soundness test plate in conformance with Figure 5.27.

Is there a recognized dihedral angle in plates put together in a lap joint configuration? If Not - what paragraph applies? 

If we ignore the dihedral angle issue or question - I believe that Option #2 most accurately reflects the joint and conditions of a lap joint and should be used, but where is the language to support the matter?