Possibly. If the chemical properties of steel to be welded are known, either by valid mill certification or by laboratory sample testing, its weldability can be judged by computing the carbon equivalent value. A more obvious approach would be to examine the existing structure for evidence of original welding. Alternatively, an on-site investigation could be performed to address weld ductility and base-metal hardening. Other factors should also be considered, such as past history of the structure, the nature of the loads, weather conditions, and whether the members to receive welds are loaded; refer to Ricker1.
[1]Ricker, D.T., 1988, "Field Welding to Existing Structures," Engineering Journal, Vol. 30, No. 1, (1st Qtr.), pp. 44-55, AISC, Chicago, IL.
last modified 18 September 2002