ISO 2560:2009 specifies requirements for classification of covered electrodes and deposited metal in the as-welded condition and in the post-weld heat-treated condition for manual metal arc welding of non-alloy and fine grain steels with a minimum yield strength of up to 500 MPa or a minimum tensile strength of up to 570 MPa.

ISO 2560:2009 is a combined specification providing for classification utilizing a system based upon the yield strength and the average impact energy of 47 J of all-weld metal, or utilizing a system based upon the tensile strength and the average impact energy of 27 J of all-weld metal.

Paragraphs and tables which carry the suffix letter “A” are applicable only to covered electrodes classified to the system based upon the yield strength and the average impact energy of 47 J of all‑weld metal in ISO 2560:2009.

Paragraphs and tables which carry the suffix letter “B” are applicable only to covered electrodes classified to the system based upon the tensile strength and the average impact energy of 27 J of all‑weld metal in ISO 2560:2009.

Paragraphs and tables which do not have either the suffix letter “A” or the suffix letter “B” are applicable to all covered electrodes classified in ISO 2560:2009.