There is a misconception that welder qualifications are only good for six months. This is not accurate. Most codes state that welder qualifications may lapse if the welder is not engaged in a given process for which he or she is qualified for a period exceeding six months. This means that as long as the […]
Keeping track of welding procedure specifications (WPSs), procedure qualification records (PQRs) and performance qualification records (WPQRs) can become a tedious task. A simple WPS and PQR may not seem like much, but a medium to large contract may require you to qualify 5-10 welding procedures procedures along with 15-20 welders. If this is the case […]
The purpose of having welding procedures specifications (WPS) is to ensure quality. This is accomplished by giving the welder a detailed set of instruction on how to deposit weld metal for a specific joint. Consistent quality can be achieved, but there is one caveat. The welding procedures must be well written. A poorly written welding […]
If you have worked with the American Welding Society codes, you have probably heard about Standard Welding Procedures Specifications (SWPSs). A SWPS is define by AWS as a welding procedure specification qualified according to the requirements of AWS B2.1/B2.1M, approved by AWS, and made available for production welding by companies or individuals other than those […]
Using prequalified welding procedures is a great tool provided by AWS D1.1 which can save time and money. To learn about these advantages read “Benefits of Using Prequalified Welding Procedures.” However, you must be careful and have a sound understanding of Clause 3 of the Structural Welding Code for Steel – AWS D1.1. Some of […]
Prequalified welding procedures are a great tool available to those who need qualified procedures in conformance with AWS D1.1 Structural Welding Code – Steel. However, there are strict requirements for the use of a prequalified welding procedures. It is not as easy as picking a qualified joint and using filler metal manufacturer’s recommended procedures. There […]
Some welding shops can weld however they want and don’t have to comply to any standard or code. On the other hand, some manufacturers have to meet and follow stringent requirements and follow specific codes such as AWS D1.1, API 1104 or ASME Section IX. The development of welding procedures is not an art, at […]
Normally the posts on our blog are inspired by questions frequently asked by customers. Unfortunately, the question above is not asked that often, but it should be. A welding procedure specification (WPS) is a set of instructions that if followed to the letter, insure a sound weld. A WPS will typically provide ranges rather than […]
A weld failure is never good. Whether a weld cracks on a truck’s axle or on the post holding your house’s fence, there are always consequences. Hopefully the consequences are limited to time and money. Unfortunately, weld failures can cause injury. Welds can fail due to design flaws, but the majority of weld failures occur […]
