Welding

How to Check Welding Procedure Specification for Quality Assurance

How to Check Welding Procedure Specification

To check a Welding Procedure Specification (WPS), begin by identifying the specific standards and codes that apply to your project.

These may include AWS D1.1/D1.1M, ASME Boiler and Pressure Vessel Code section IX, CSA Standard W47.1, CSA Standard W47.2, CSA Standard W186, EN ISO 15607, or API 1104.

Next, review the WPS document developed by the welding company, ensuring that it corresponds to the appropriate material alloy and welding type.

Verify that the WPS is supported by a Procedure Qualification Record (PQR) and that individual welders have been certified through a Welder Qualification Test Record (WQTR).

Additionally, consider seeking assistance from professionals such as CWIs and engineers who can provide expertise in developing and reviewing WPS for welding projects.


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Did You Know?

1. In the world of welding, the American Welding Society (AWS) has developed a set of standards known as Welding Procedure Specifications, or WPS, which ensures the quality and safety of welded structures.

2. One lesser-known fact is that Welding Procedure Specifications cover a wide range of variables, including the type of welding process, the specific materials being welded, the thickness of the materials, and the position of the weld.

3. Did you know that Welding Procedure Specifications are developed through a rigorous process involving testing and qualification? Before a WPS can be approved, the welding procedure must be demonstrated to produce sound and strong welds that meet specific criteria.

4. To ensure compliance with the specified welding procedure, non-destructive testing methods such as x-ray, ultrasonic, and magnetic particle inspections may be performed on the welded joints to detect any potential flaws or defects.

5. Lastly, it’s important to note that Welding Procedure Specifications are regularly reviewed and updated by the AWS to incorporate new technologies, materials, and industry best practices, ensuring that welders are equipped with the latest standards in the field.

What Is A Welding Procedure Specification (WPS)?

A Welding Procedure Specification (WPS) is a formal document used by welding companies to provide detailed instructions to welders on how to achieve high-quality production welds that meet code requirements. It defines the specific welding process, parameters, and techniques to be used for a particular application.

The WPS is developed by each welding company for each material alloy and welding type used. This allows the company to have control over the welding process and ensure consistency in the quality of the welds produced. By following the instructions provided in the WPS, welders can produce welds that meet the required standards and codes.

Importance Of Developing Company-Specific WPSs

Developing company-specific WPSs is of utmost importance for welding companies. These documents are developed based on the company’s experience, expertise, and the specific requirements of their projects. By having their own WPSs, companies can ensure that their welders are equipped with the necessary instructions and guidelines to produce high-quality welds.

WPSs provide a systematic approach to welding by outlining the welding process, including factors such as preheating, filler material, welding technique, and post-weld heat treatment. By following the company’s WPS, welders can meet code requirements and avoid common welding defects such as lack of penetration, excessive porosity, and inconsistent weld bead quality.

Supporting Documents: Procedure Qualification Record (PQR) And Welder Qualification Test Record (WQTR)

A Welding Procedure Specification (WPS) is supported by a Procedure Qualification Record (PQR) and a Welder Qualification Test Record (WQTR).

The PQR is a test weld performed and tested to ensure that the welding procedure outlined in the WPS will produce a sound and reliable weld. It includes details such as welding parameters, material specifications, test methods, and results. The PQR serves as evidence that the welding procedure is capable of producing quality welds.

Individual welders are certified with a qualification test documented in the WQTR. This record provides information on the welder’s qualifications, including the welding process, materials, position, and thickness that the welder is qualified to work on. It ensures that welders have demonstrated their competency and are suitable for performing welding tasks as per the company’s requirements.

Standards And Definitions By AWS, ASME, CWB, CEN, And ISO

The American Welding Society (AWS) and the American Society of Mechanical Engineers (ASME) provide definitions for WPS and PQR, along with guidelines and codes for welding procedures and qualifications. Their standards, such as AWS D1.1/D1.1M and ASME Boiler and Pressure Vessel Code section IX, are widely recognized and adopted in the industry.

Other organizations, such as the Canadian Welding Bureau (CWB) and the European Committee for Standardization (CEN), also have their own standards and requirements for welding procedure specifications and qualifications. For example, the CWB standards include CSA Standard W47.1, CSA Standard W47.2, and CSA Standard W186. Similarly, the ISO 156xx series of standards provides various methods for WPS approval, considering factors such as tested welding consumables, previous welding experience, standard welding procedure, and preproduction welding test.

Widely Used Standards: API 1104 And Various Others

In the oil and gas pipeline sector, the API 1104 standard is widely used worldwide. This standard outlines the requirements for the design, welding, inspection, and testing of pipelines. It plays a crucial role in ensuring the integrity and safety of pipelines in the industry.

Apart from API 1104, welding companies may refer to various other standards, depending on their specific application or project. It is crucial for these companies to stay updated with the latest industry standards and codes. This is important to maintain compliance and deliver high-quality welds.

To summarize, the API 1104 standard is widely recognized in the oil and gas pipeline sector. Additionally, welding companies should be aware of other relevant standards to meet the specific requirements of their projects. Staying up-to-date with the latest industry standards and codes is essential for ensuring compliance and delivering high-quality welds.

  • Importance of API 1104 standard in the oil and gas pipeline sector
  • Various other standards for welding companies to consider
  • The need to stay updated with industry standards and codes

“It is crucial for companies to stay updated with the latest industry standards and codes in order to maintain compliance and deliver high-quality welds.”

Types Of WPS: Prequalified, Preliminary, Standard, And Customized

There are different types of Welding Procedure Specifications (WPSs) available, each catering to different scenarios and needs. These types include:

  • Prequalified WPS (pWPS): This refers to a welding procedure that is prequalified by AWS or ASME. It has already been proven to meet certain requirements and does not require further qualification testing.

  • Preliminary-WPS: Also known as preliminary welding procedure specification, this is an initial draft of the WPS that includes all the essential information required for welding. It serves as a starting point for further development and refinement.

  • Standard-WPS (SWPS): SWPS is a general welding procedure that is developed and published by AWS. These documents provide a set of guidelines for commonly used welding applications, making it easier for companies to select and adapt procedures as needed.

  • Customized WPSs: These WPSs are specific to a particular project and are developed to meet the unique requirements of that project. They are tailored according to the specific materials, welding processes, and design requirements.

To ensure quality assurance of the welding procedure specification, it is essential to review the details provided in the WPS and ensure that it aligns with the project requirements and industry standards. Verification of supporting documents such as the Procedure Qualification Record (PQR) and Welder Qualification Test Record (WQTR) is crucial to ensure that the procedures and welders are qualified and capable of producing quality welds.

In conclusion, the welding procedure specification is a vital document in ensuring the quality and integrity of welds. By following company-specific WPSs, supported by PQRs and WQTRs, welding companies can produce welds that meet code requirements and deliver high-quality results. Staying updated with industry standards and understanding the different types of WPSs enables fabricators to develop and use welding procedures that meet the requirements of their projects.

Frequently Asked Questions

What to check in welding procedure specification?

When reviewing a welding procedure specification (WPS), it is essential to check a few critical details. Firstly, verify that the welding position mentioned in the WPS aligns with the intended position for the project. Different positions may require specific techniques or adjustments in welding parameters to ensure proper fusion and quality. Additionally, it is crucial to confirm that the base metal thickness listed in the WPS matches the thickness of the material being welded. This is important because the welding parameters and welding technique may vary depending on the thickness, ensuring proper penetration and avoiding potential defects. Double-checking these details within the WPS guarantees that welding is carried out accurately and according to the required standards.

What is simple welding procedure specification?

A Simple Welding Procedure Specification (SWPS) is a streamlined version of the standard WPS, designed for simpler welding procedures. It provides concise instructions to welders on how to perform basic welding operations while still ensuring the quality of the welds and compliance with relevant codes. The SWPS eliminates unnecessary details and focuses on the essential requirements, making it easier to understand and follow for welders with less experience or for straightforward welding processes. By simplifying the documentation, the SWPS allows for quicker implementation of welding procedures, increasing efficiency in welding operations.

What is welding works specification?

Welding works specification (WWS) is a detailed set of guidelines and instructions that outline the specific parameters, techniques, and variables required to successfully complete welding projects. WWS serves as a comprehensive framework that welders adhere to in order to consistently produce high-quality and structurally sound welds. It encompasses various factors such as welding procedures, materials to be used, joint designs, welding positions, and pre-weld and post-weld treatments. By following the WWS, welders can ensure that the welding process is performed efficiently and safely, ultimately leading to the desired end result.

How do I choose a welding procedure?

Selecting the appropriate welding procedure requires careful evaluation of various factors. Firstly, it is essential to consider the design requirements of the project. This includes understanding the desired outcome and the specific demands of the application. Secondly, material properties must be thoroughly examined. The type of material, its thickness, and its compatibility with different welding methods should all be taken into account. Furthermore, joint configuration plays a crucial role in determining the appropriate welding technique. Different joint types require distinct approaches to ensure proper fusion and strength. Loading conditions must also be considered, as the welding procedure must be capable of withstanding the expected stresses and strains. Lastly, the availability of equipment is a practical aspect to be considered when making a decision, as various welding methods may require different tools and machinery. In summary, a comprehensive assessment of design requirements, material properties, joint configuration, loading conditions, and available equipment is crucial to select the most suitable welding procedure.

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