Aluminum Welder Qualifications 2

[Bagman2524]

Does anyone know how to qualify welders to weld aluminum? Would it fall under AWS D1.1?

"Look for 3 things in a person intelligence, energy and integrity. If they don't have the last one, don't even bother with the first 2. W. Buffet

 

[tbuelna]

What type of aluminum welding process and for what type of application?

 

[gtaw]

If the application is a structural application, you can use AWS D1.2 Structural Welding Code/Aluminum.

One can also consider AWS B2.1 for other applications.

AWS D17.1 for aerospace applications.

In all case, one must qualify the WPS by testing, i.e., there are no prequalified WPSs for aluminum.

Best regards - Al

 

[racookpe1978]

why is that? It would seem that we are long past the "experimental" stage for Al welding.

 

[gtaw]

Aluminum: almost a metal.

Enough said.

Best regards - Al

 

[tbuelna]

The WPS is a controlled process for specific application, and it defines things like machine settings, consumables and operator qualification. Most standards require each operator to demonstrate ability to perform the weld process by producing samples of the weld, and this is recorded using something like a WQTR.

Usually, the more critical the aluminum welding application is, the more rigorous the welder qualification process becomes. However, there are some instances where the qualified "welder" may not even perform the welding operation. In the aerospace sector, there are very critical aluminum weld applications like friction stir welding of rocket fuel tanks, where the qualified welder simply sets up an automated machine that produces the welds. Yet the welder/machine operator must still be qualified.

Attached is a sample form used to record the qual test of a welder for a specific WPS.

 

[pandithan]

u can easily qualify provide u take lot precautions in cleaning, heat input etc

 

[Bagman2524]

thanks for the replies

"Look for 3 things in a person intelligence, energy and integrity. If they don't have the last one, don't even bother with the first 2. W. Buffet