When does a welder become a WELDER 7

[weed78]

For the fabrication of Pressure Equipment (to whatever Code) what knowledge does a welding operator need in order to be considered a Qualified Pressure Welder?

A) Can turn a machine on and knows which button to press?
B) Can adjust the machine so that a weld is produced?
C) Can melt metal?
D) Can melt metal using more than one process?
E) Can melt metal in all positions?
F) Can melt metal and understand why it is melting?
G) Can create and control a weld pool?
H) Can create a weld pool and understands what the pool is doing?
I) Can control a weld pool and understands what is happening in the vecinity of the weld?
J) Fully understands and can apply the theory of metal fusion?
K) Other?
Any comments?

 

[tab1999]

I'm impressed by all the information posted from the original question.
I have been a welding Inspector (CWI)over 10 years and am amazed at the changes in construction. Mostly the caliber of folks we test on 3 basic pipe tests.
I don't really like the 6G test, since this is primarily what most training for the new welders consist of. There is a really low % of field welds conducted in that position.
We test on 6" sch 40 cs with 6010/7018 (SMAW). It appears that 6010 isn't as common as it used to be. We also test on 2" sch. 80 cs (All GTAW) and 2" sch.10 SS (GTAW). I also test folks on the Nickel materials due to the weldability, even though it usually falls within the (Qualified with) ranges permitted by Section IX. (A realistic evaluation)

I agree with GTAW's analogy of rod burner/welder and hope that the experienced Journey-persons will step-up like they used to, to teach these young/new welders all the tricks of the trade and help improve the quality,dedication and pride required in the field as well as in the shop.Companies also need to provide training to meet their needs.
We are working with schools like Vocational schools, etc., to pick up new students, take into our training and incorporate our specific training for as short of time as possible and put them to work under the close scrutiny of our Quality program.
Sorry to ramble!
Thanks and have a Great Day!