Submerged arc welding can be used for a wide range of workpieces including structural members in ships, pressure vessels, bridge beams, pipes, and thin sheets. It is suitable for butt and fillet welding and is generally performed indoors in fabrication shops. Submerged arc welding is most efficient if the joint can be filled with as few passes as possible, often applying a bead from each side of the joint when working with mild steel that is not too thick.