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Prequalified Welding Procedure and Qualified Welding Procedure
How Prequalified Welding Procedures Are Misapplied in Production

Prequalified welding procedures are highly reliable when applied correctly, but quality issues often arise from how they are used in production. This article explains common misapplications—such as joint drift, uncontrolled parameter changes, and reliance on inspection—and why the same issues affect qualified procedures as well.

When welding procedures should be qualified by testing even when structural welding codes allow prequalified welding procedures
Why Some Welding Procedures Must Be Qualified by Testing 

Prequalified welding procedures provide a strong foundation, but some applications require qualification by testing to support productivity, joint modifications, or metallurgical requirements. This article explains why testing becomes necessary, how it complements prequalification, and why both approaches rely on the same discipline and engineering judgment.

AWS D1.1 D1.6 Prequalified welding procedure specification requirements
How to Stay Within Prequalified Welding Procedure Requirements

Prequalified welding procedures significantly reduce risk when their requirements are followed. This article explains what to monitor—such as joint fit-up, production adjustments, and procedure limits—to ensure prequalified WPSs remain compliant and deliver consistent, high-quality results.

AWS D1.1 AWS D1.6 Prequalified Welding Procedures
When Prequalified Welding Procedures Are the Smartest Option

Prequalified welding procedures can be the smartest option when speed, quality, and compliance matter. This article explains when prequalification makes sense, how it reduces risk, and why it often provides the best starting point for production before qualification testing is justified.

A practical framework for weld troubleshooting
A Practical Framework for Weld Troubleshooting 

Most weld troubleshooting fails because it focuses on quick fixes instead of root causes. This article outlines a practical, repeatable framework for diagnosing weld problems, applying controlled corrective actions, and preventing the same defects from returning.

How to troubleshoot lack of fusion and incomplete weld penetration
How to Troubleshoot Lack of Fusion and Incomplete Penetration

Lack of fusion and incomplete penetration are often misdiagnosed and overcorrected. This article explains how to troubleshoot these defects systematically by identifying where fusion is missing, evaluating joint design and technique, and applying controlled corrective actions that lead to consistent results.

How to prevent weld distortion
How to Troubleshoot Weld Distortion

Weld distortion is not random and cannot be solved by reducing heat input alone. This article explains how to troubleshoot distortion systematically by evaluating joint design, weld volume, sequencing, restraint, and heat distribution to reduce rework and improve production efficiency.

How to troubleshoot weld solidification cracks
How to Troubleshoot Weld Cracking

Weld cracking is one of the most severe and costly welding problems, often caused by multiple interacting factors rather than a single mistake. This article explains how to troubleshoot cracking systematically by gathering information, understanding contributing conditions, and applying controlled corrective actions that prevent repeat failures.

how to troubleshoot and eliminate weld porosity
How to Troubleshoot Weld Porosity Using a Systematic Approach

Weld porosity is often misdiagnosed and treated through trial and error. This article explains how to troubleshoot porosity systematically by identifying patterns, evaluating contamination, verifying shielding effectiveness, and making controlled, repeatable adjustments that prevent repeat problems.

welding procedure assumptions short circuit globular pulse
Why Welding Symbol Errors Rarely Get Caught Early

Welding symbol errors are rarely caught early because they often produce acceptable short-term results, pass inspection, and are reinforced by experience and time pressure. This article explains why interpretation failures persist and why foundational understanding is essential for preventing costly downstream issues.