Becoming a qualified 6G welder 1

It is called a Welder performance Qualification (WPQ)in ASME IX. See Table QW_461.9

Different weld/fabrication standards call the welder qualification record by different names. Most people are knowledgeable enough to understand what you are providing them with. There are always dweebs here and there that will be adamant that the correct name be used, that is, they will insist on using the same terminology as that used by the particular welding standard you are using. Life is what it is.

Generally, the sequence of events goes something like this:

If there is already an established WPS, the welder welds the required test assembly following the WPS with regards to the welding process, welding parameters, base metal, weld type (fillet versus groove), position, product form (tubular versus plate), etc. That is all based on having a WPS that is appropriate for the welding that is needed.

If there is no WPS, one must be developed and qualified by testing. In the case of AWS, the WPS may be deemed prequalified and exempt from testing. Once the WPS is available and if it is appropriate for the welding to be done, the welder follows the WPS to weld the test coupon.

The WPS should be provide the welder with all the information needed to weld the test assembly. That, to me anyway, means the WPS should be complete enough that the welder can adjust the welding machine and make a sound weld using the parameters listed. The WPS should include a sketch of the joint to be welded. That means the WPS should list the weld type and the fit up requirements of the joint to be welded. Personally, I do not advocate verbal communication exclusively for giving direction to the welder. The welder should have complete documentation for what is to be welded, how it is to be welded, and I include the acceptance criteria for both visual requirements and for bend testing (if RT is not used). There should be no mystery of what is expected. I even have written instruction regarding what tools can be used before the test and during the test. This comes into play when testing welders to the AWS Bridge Welding Code where no power tools are permitted during the test and no tools can be used to change the weld profile during the test.

The welder test should be supervised and witnessed by the welder's employer. Whether a third party inspector has to be involved is determined by the customer. Most codes do not require third party involvement.

Best regards - Al

Hi Mr gtaw

Are you a welding inspector? Or a 6G TIG welder?

Thanks

Sounds more like he is an engineer working for an engineer, neither of whom is a welder nor has seen a welder perform. Which is not necessarily a bad thing, merely a big limit on their knowledge.

The boss seems like he wants the new guy to figure out the "process" about welding that the boss doesn't know.

6G, by the way, means the pipe is clamped in one position during the test - angled up from the horizon at 45 degrees, not moved during the test, and the welder has to work all the way around the angled pipe.

Hello aida2011;
I am a AWS Senior Certified Welding Inspector and hold ASNT ACCP certifications as a Level III for RT, UT, MT, and PT. I have also earn a few degrees; an Associate Degree in Structural Design, a Bachelor of Science in Applied Technology (Welding), and an MBA. I have been welding since I bought my first welding machine when I was 13, and have held certifications for SMAW, FCAW, GTAW, GMAW (both short circuiting transfer and spray transfer), and SAW. The materials involved; carbon and high strength steels, austenitic stainless steel, nickel alloys, and titanium. I've been qualified for both structural (AWS) and pipe (ASME). I will admit that I don't spend as much time under the welding helmet that I once did as a structural ironworker (retired with 45 years as a member of Ironworkers Local 15), but I still teach welding when the occasion calls for it. I think that pretty well covers my qualifications.

Best regards - Al

Geez Al....and all this time we thought you were faking it!

Interesting, a welding inspector and teacher who has "humpty dumpty" certifications asking such a basic question associated with WPQ after these years in this trade and to boot as a retired ironworker. I don't get it.

I didn't realize I was asking the question. I was trying to respond to the question posted by "aida." Maybe you could enlighten me as to what question you thought I was asking.

Best regards - Al