An introduction to ASME &
ASME SEC IX
QA/QC DEPARTMENT
Contents
The ASME System
Introduction to Section IX
Organization and Use Section IX
Section IX Responsibilities
Responsibilities of the Authorized Inspector or Owner User Inspector
Responsibilities of the Manufacturer
Welding Processes and weld types
Section II, Part C Welding Materials
Welding Procedure Specification QW-200
Procedure Qualification Record (PQR)
Qualifying a WPS
Miscellaneous Application
Welding Variables
Welder performance Qualification QW-300
Welder Essential Variables SMAW
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The ASME System
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Outline
The ASME System
 ASME Boiler & Pressure Vessel Codes
 Section IX Subcommittee Organization

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The ASME
The American Society of Mechanical Engineers
Provides minimum safety rules for Construction

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The Members

The American Society of Mechanical Engineers (ASME)
 Manufacturer/Certificates Holders
 Owners/Users
 Authorized Inspection Agencies
 Jurisdiction/Regulatory Agencies
 Members voluntarily supported by their organizations
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Manufacturers
AIAs
Owner/Users
ASME
Voluntary
Members
Jurisdictions
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Boiler & Pressure Vessel Committee
1911: ASME establishes a committee for the purpose of
formulating standard rules for the construction of power
boilers and other pressure vessels.

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Construction Codes
Section I – Power Boilers
 Section III – Divs. 1 & 2 – Nuclear Components
 Section IV – Heating Boilers
 Section VIII, Divs. 1, 2 & 3 Pressure Vessels
 Section X – Fiberglass Reinforced Plastic Pressure
Vessels

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History of Construction Codes
1914: Section I – Power Boilers
 1923: Section IV – Heating Boilers
 1928: Section VIII – Unrefined Pressure Vessels
 1965: Section III- Nuclear Power Plant Components.

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History of Construction Codes
1968: Renamed Section VIII, Div. 1 Pressure
Vessel Code
 1968: Section VIII, Div. 2 Alternate Rules for Pressure
Vessels
 1969: Section X – Fiberglass Reinforced Plastic Pressure
Vessels

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Reference Codes
Section II – Materials
 Section V - Nondestructive Examination
 Section IX - Welding & Brazing Qualification

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History of Reference Codes
1924: Section II - Material
1937: Section IX – Welding Qualification

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Subgroup Organization
Section IX Committee
Subgroup Performance
Subgroup Procedures
Subgroup General
Requirements
Subgroup Brazing
Subgroup Materials
Subgroup Strength
of Weldment
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Introduction to Section IX
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Outline
Foreword
 WPS/PQR Qualifications
 Addenda
 Organization and Use of Section IX

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Foreword
Foreword covers topics such as:
 History of ASME Committee
 Submitting interpretations to ASME as referenced in
Appendix A
 Effect date of Addenda
 Addenda may be used upon issuance although it is
not mandatory six month after issue
 Material requiremen

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ASME Code Section IX

Qualification Standard for
 Welding and Brazing Procedures
 Welders, Braziers, Welding and Brazing Operators.
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WPS/PQR Qualification
Article I Paragraph QW-100.2 discusses “OLD”
procedures and Welders Qualifications
 Qualification prior to 1962:
 Requires updating to a later edition or discard as valid
 After 1962, the Procedures and Welders are good forever

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Addenda
Changes to the Code
 Issued annually
 Mandatory use six months after issue
 May be used upon issue

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Reference Code
Section IX is a reference Code and may be used only
when referenced and as it is referenced by the
Construction or Governing Code

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Organization and Use Section IX
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Organization

Part QW
 Article 1 – General Requirements
 Article 11 – Welding Procedure Qualification
 Article 111 – Welding Performance Qualification
 Article IV – Welding Variables
 Article V – Standard Welding Procedure (AWS)
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Article I

General Requirements
 QW-100 General
 QW-110 Weld Ordination
 QW-120 Test Position for Groove welds
 QW-130 Test Position for Fillet Welds
 QW-140 Types and purpose of test and examinations
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Article I

General Requirements
 QW-150 Tension Test
 QW-160 Guided bend test
 QW-170 Notch Toughness Test
 QW-180 Fillet Weld Test
 QW-190 Other test & examinations
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Article II

Welding Procedure Qualification
 QW-200 General
 QW-210 Preparation of test coupon
 QW-250 Welding Variables
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Article III

Welding Performance Qualification
 QW-300 General
 QW-310 Qualification test coupon
 QW-320 Reset and renewal of qualification
 QW-350 Welding variables for welders
 QW-360 Welding variable for welding Operators
 QW-380 Special processes
Article IV

Welding Data
 QW-400 Variables
 QW-410 Techniques
 QW-320 P-Number
 QW-430 F- Numbers
 QW-440 Weld metal chemical composition
 QW-450 Specimens
 QW-460 Graphics
 QW-470 Etching process and reagents
 QW-490 Definitions
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Section IX Responsibilities
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Outline

Responsibilities
 Authorized Inspector
 Manufacturer
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Responsibilities of the Authorized
Inspector or Owner User Inspector
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Before Construction

Verify that
 Procedure comply with procedure
 Procedure have been properly qualified
 Welding and Operators are properly qualified
 QC Manual has been followed
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During Construction
Make sure welding is preformed within the parameters
of the welding procedure
 Verify welder qualification limits are neither exceeded
nor expired

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Responsibilities of the
Manufacturer
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Qualification of Procedure
Establish a QC program to control qualification
 List parameters for construction
 Prepare a written WPS
 Assure metallurgical compatibility between filler and base
metal
 Prepare and certify PQR based upon recorded data

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Notes
Recommended that each Manufacturer has, or has
access to, a welding metallurgist
 QW-200.3 Hold the manufacturer responsible for
assuring that material are compatible when welded

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Qualification of Welders
Establish QC program to control welder qualification
 Qualify each welder to the process being used
 Weld the test coupon in accordance with a written WPS

Cont’d…
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Qualification of Welder
Control and supervise during the welding of coupon
 Maintain welder identification
 Document welder qualification

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Subcontracted Welding Procedures
Applicable to Section I only when using “PP” stamp to
ASME/ ANSI B31.1 Code
 The National Certified Pipe Welder’s Bureau (NCPWB),
a national organization made up of member companies,
provides welding procedures to its members.

Cont’d…
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Subcontracted Welding Procedures

The member company must
 Sign each WPS and PQR
 Accept responsibility for its use and Code compliance
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Subcontracted Welding

Allowed by the construction Code, provided;
 Use is described in the QC Manual
 Work performed within the scope of the Certificate of
Authorization
 Certificate holder has contractual control over the
Welders.
Cont’d…
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Subcontracted Welding
Certificate Holder has final responsibility for the welding
 Welder is under subcontract to the Certificate holder
 Welder are qualified by the Certificate Holder

Inter – Company Procedures
QW-201
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Welding procedure may be used among different
companies, provided they are within the same corporate
structure
 Each company must state how they control such
procedure in their QC Manual and satisfy the ASME during
joint review

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Example
Company “A” qualifies and files several PQRs
 Company “B” files their own PQR and combines with the
PQRs from company “A” to develop a WPS
 The PQR from company “A” was not qualified.
Is this permissible?

Inter – Company Procedures
QW-300.2
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Allows to use the Welders amongst different companies
without prequalification, provided both companies are
within the same corporate structure
 Each company must satisfy the ASME requirements
during the joint review and incorporate the necessary
control in the QC Manual

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Welding Processes and
Weld Types
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Outline
Welding Processes
 Weld Types

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Welding Processes
OFW
Oxyfuel Welding
SMAW
Shield Metal Arc Welding
SAW
Submerge Arc Welding
GMAW
Gas Metal Arc Welding
FCAW
Flux-Core Arc Welding
GTAW
Gas Tungsten Arc Welding
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Welding Processes
PAW
Plasma Arc Welding
ESW
Electro Slag Welding
EGW
Electro Gas Welding
EBW
Electro Beam Welding
LBW
Laser Beam Welding
Stud Welding
Inertia and Continuous Friction
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Special Processes
Corrosion resistance overlay and hard surface overlay
welding
 Qualification requirement: QW-453
 Essential variables: QW-250

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Weld Types
Three types of welds covered in Section IX
 Groove Weld
 U Groove
 J Groove
 V Groove
 Partial Penetration
 Fillet Welds
 Stud Welds
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‘J’ and ‘U’ Preparations
“U” preparation
Root radius
Land
Double “U” butt
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Groove Weld
?
1
Cont’d……
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Groove Weld
1
Groove Angle
Cont’d……
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Groove Weld
1
?
2
Cont’d……
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Groove Weld
1
2
Bevel Angle
Cont’d……
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Groove Weld
?
3
1
2
Cont’d……
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Groove Weld
3
1
2
Groove Face
Cont’d……
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Groove Weld
3
1
2
?
4
Cont’d……
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Groove Weld
3
1
2
Root Face
4
Cont’d……
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Groove Weld
3
1
2
4
5 ?
Cont’d……
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Groove Weld
3
1
2
Root Gap
4
5
Cont’d……
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Groove Weld
Groove Face
Groove Angle
Bevel Angle
Root Face
Root Gap
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Fillet Weld
1
?
Cont’d……
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Fillet Weld
1
?
Toe of Weld
Cont’d……
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Fillet Weld
1
2
?
Cont’d……
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Fillet Weld
1
2
Weld Face
Cont’d……
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Fillet Weld
?
1
2
3
Cont’d……
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Fillet Weld
1
2
3
Weld Size
Cont’d……
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Fillet Weld
1
2
4
3
?
Cont’d……
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Fillet Weld
1
2
4
3
Weld Leg
Cont’d……
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Fillet Weld
1
2
3
4
5 ?
Cont’d……
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Fillet Weld
1
2
3
4
5
Weld Root
Cont’d……
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Fillet Weld
1
2
3
4
5
6
?
Cont’d……
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Fillet Weld
1
2
3
4
5
6
Weld Throat
Cont’d……
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Fillet Weld
Toe
Face
Leg
Root
Weld Size
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Stud Welding
1
?
Cont’d……
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Stud Welding
Work Piece
1
Cont’d……
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Stud Welding
?
Work Piece
2
1
Cont’d……
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Stud Welding
Stud
Work Piece
2
1
Cont’d……
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Stud Welding
Stud
Work Piece
2
1
3 ?
Cont’d……
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Stud Welding
Stud
Work Piece
2
1
3
Weld
Cont’d……
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Section II, Part C
Welding Material
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Outline

Scope of Section II, Part C

Electrode Identification
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ASME Section II, Part C
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Scope
Section II- material specifications referenced in the
fabrication Code.
 Part C – Material Specification for welding materials

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Section II, Part C

Information includes:
 Processes that may be used with various electrodes
 Recommended storage requirements
 AWS marking
 Recommended electrode positions
 Recommended polarity
 Information on “how” to meet SFA specification
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Table of Contents
SFA-5.1 Carbon Steel covered arc welding electrodes.
 SFA-5.4 Corrosion resistance Cr and Cr-Ni steel covered
electrodes
 SFA- 5.5 Low alloy steel-covered arc welding electrodes
 SFA-2.18 Carbon steel filler metals for Gas Shielded Arc
Welding

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Specification SFA-5.1
Requirements for classifying carbon steel electrodes
used for Shielded Metal Arc Welding (SMAW)
 Example:
 E6010, E6011, E7018 and E7028

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Specification SFA-5.4
Requirement for classifying stainless steel-covered
electrodes used for SMAW
 Example:
 E308H, E309L, E317L and E317L

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Specification SFA-5.5
Requirements for classifying low alloy steel-covered
electrodes used for SMAW
 Example:
 E7018-A1, E8016-B2, E9015-B3 and E9018-B3L

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Specification SFA-5.18
Requirements for classifying carbon steel electrodes and
rods used for Gas Shielded Arc Welding (GSAW)
 Examples:
 ER70S2, ER70S3, ER70SG and ER70CGM.

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Electrode Identification
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Marking Requirements
SFA-5.1 requires marking on both the package and
electrode
 Package
• AWS classification and class
• Supplier’s name and trade designation
• Size and net weight
• Lot, control or heat number
 Electrode
• Classification must be within 2.5” of grip end
• Prefix “E” may be omitted

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Classification SFA-5.1
Position
Electrode
EXXXX- 1
For 018
Electrodes, “1”
indicates that
charpy values of
20 ft-lbs at -50 F
have been met
Minimum tensile
strength (ksi)
Type of coating and
recommended current
Cont’d……
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Classification SFA-5.1
Position
Electrode
EXXYY- 1
For 016 E7016 &
E7018 Electrodes,
“1” indicates that
charpy values of 20
ft-lbs at -50 F have
been met
Minimum tensile
strength 70 ksi
Type of coating and
recommended current
Cont’d……
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Classification SFA-5.1
Position
Electrode
EXXYY-1
For E7016 & E7018
Electrodes, “1”
indicates that
charpy values of 20
ft-lbs at -50 F have
been met
Minimum tensile
strength 70 ksi
Type of coating and
recommended current
Cont’d……
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Classification SFA-5.1
All Position
Electrode
EXX18- 1
For E7016 & E7018
Electrodes, “1”
indicates that
charpy values of 20
ft-lbs at -50 F have
been met
Minimum tensile
strength 70 ksi
Low Hydrogen, Potassium,
Iron powder and use for AC
or DCEP
Cont’d……
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Classification SFA-5.1
Position
Electrode
EXXYY-1
For E7016 & E7018
Electrodes, “1”
indicates that
charpy values of 20
ft-lbs at -50 F have
been met
Minimum tensile
strength 70 ksi
Type of coating and
recommended current
Cont’d……
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Example of SFA-5.1 Electrode
E6010, E7018, E7024
 Note: Only 60 ksi and 70 ksi tensile electrode are covered
by this specification

Cont’d……
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Specification SFA-5.4
Requirements for classifying corrosion-resistant and
chromium nickel steel-covered arc welding electrodes
used for SMAW

Cont’d……
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Classification SFA-5.4
Electrode
Usability (Position &
Current type
E-XXX-XXX-XX
Chemical
Composition (first
three digits)
One or more letters
indicating modification of
basic composition
Cont’d……
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Classification SFA-5.4
Usability (Position
& Current type
Electrode
E-XXX-YYY-XX
Chemical Composition
(first three digits)
One or more letters
indicating modification of
basic composition
Cont’d……
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Classification SFA-5.4
Usability (Position &
Current type
Electrode
E-308-YYY-XX
19 Cr, 10 Ni
One or more letters
indicating modification of
basic composition
Cont’d……
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Classification SFA-5.4
Usability (Position &
Current type
Electrode
E-XXX-L-XX
Chemical Composition
(first three digits)
Low carbon contents 0.04%
max
Cont’d……
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Classification SFA-5.4
Electrode
DCEP or AC/ all
position
E-XXX-YYY-16
Chemical
Composition (first
three digits)
One or more letters
indicating modification of
basic composition
Cont’d……
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Example of SFA-5.4
E308L, E308L-16, E309Cb
Legend
L
Low Carbon
Cb
Addition of columbium, Reduction of Carbon
Mo
Addition of molybdenum, reduction of carbon
15
Lime covering, use DCEP
16
Lime or titania, use with DCEN or DCEP
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Specification SFA-5.5
Requirements for classifying low-alloy steel electrode
used for SMAW

Cont’d……
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Classification SFA-5.5
Position
Electrode
One or more letters &
number indicating
chemical composition of
deposited metal
EXX (X) XX-XXX
Minimum tensile strength
(ksi)
Type of coating &
recommended current
Cont’d……
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Classification SFA-5.5
Position
Electrode
One or more letters &
number indicating
chemical composition of
deposited metal
EXX (X) YY-XXX
Minimum tensile strength
(ksi)
Type of coating &
recommended current
Cont’d……
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Classification SFA-5.5
Position
Electrode
One or more letters &
number indicating
chemical composition of
deposited metal
E 100 XX-XXX
Minimum tensile strength
100 ksi
Type of coating &
recommended current
Cont’d……
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Specification SFA-5.5
All Position
Electrode
One or more letters &
number indicating
chemical composition of
deposited metal
EXX (X) 16-XXX
Minimum tensile strength
(ksi)
Low hydrogen Potassium
AC/DCEP
Cont’d……
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Classification SFA-5.5
All Position
Electrode
One or more letters &
number indicating
chemical composition of
deposited metal
EXX (X) 16-B2L
Minimum tensile strength
(ksi)
Low hydrogen Potassium
AC/DCEP
Cont’d……
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Classification SFA-5.5
Position
Electrode
Chromium- molybdenum
steel electrode
EXX (X) YY-B2L
Minimum tensile strength
(ksi)
Type of coating &
recommended current
Cont’d……
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Example of SFA-5.5
E7012, E7013-B3“A”
 Chemical Composition Number
 A1- C Mo (1/2 % Mo)
 B1- Cr Mo (1/2%Cr,1/2%Mo)
 B2- Cr Mo (1-1/4%Cr, 1/2%Mo)
 B3- Cr Mo (2-1/4%Cr, 1/2%Mo)

“A”
2
3
3
4
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Specification SFA-5.18

Requirements for classifying carbon steel electrodes and
rods used with the following welding methods:
 Gas Metal Arc GMAW)
 Gas Tungsten Arc (GTAW)
 Plasma Arc (PAW)
Cont’d……
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Classification SFA-5.18
Rod
Suffix relating to
manufacture chemical
composition
Electrode
ERXXS-X(XX)
Minimum tensile strength
(ksi)
Bare, Solid wire or rod
Cont’d……
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Classification SFA-5.18
Rod
Suffix relating to
manufacture chemical
composition
Electrode
ERXXC-X(XX)
Minimum tensile strength
(ksi)
Composite wire
Cont’d……
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Classification SFA-5.18
Rod
Electrode
Suffix relating to
manufacture chemical
composition
ER70S-X
Minimum tensile strength
70ksi
Bare, Solid wire or rod
Cont’d……
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Classification SFA-5.18
Rod
Suffix relating to
manufacture chemical
composition
Electrode
ERXXS-X(XX)
Minimum tensile strength
(ksi)
Solid Wire
Cont’d……
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Classification SFA-5.18
Rod
Low carbon with trace of
Ti, Zr and Al content
Electrode
ERXXS-2(XX)
Minimum tensile strength
(ksi)
Bare, Solid Wire or rod
Cont’d……
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Classification SFA-5.18

ER70S-2, ER70S-3
Suffix
"A"
Shielding Gas
 2
1
Ar/O2, Ar, Ar/CO2
 3
1
Ar/CO2, CO2
 4
1
CO2
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Welding Procedure Specification
QW-200
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Outline
Weld Procedure Specification (WPS) qualification
 Procedure Qualification Record (PQR)
 Writing a WPS
 Qualifying a WPS
 Testing weld specimens
 Groove weld Qualifications
 Miscellaneous applications
 Welding variables

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WPS Qualification
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What is a WPS?

A document that has been prepared by qualification and
is used to provide necessary direction and control for
making a weld joint
Contents of a WPS

A WPS must address:
 Essential and Non-essential variables in QW-250
 Supplemental variables, when impact testing required
 Acceptance qualification ranges
 Other information
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Category of Variables
Essential
 Must be qualified when a change occur
 Non- Essential
 Must be addressed in the WPS
 Supplementary Essential
 Must be requalified when notch toughness is involved

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Considerations
Joint designs
 Weld and base metal compatibility
 Heat treatment
 Metallurgical properties
 Desired mechanical properties
 Service requirements
 Welders’ ability
 Equipment availability
 Weld location
 Economy

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Procedure Qualification Record
(PQR)
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PQR
Record of welding data used to weld a test coupon
 Modifies or justifies the WPS
 Supporting document that includes the results of welding
and testing a coupon

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Contents of PQR
Essential variables (as a minimum)
 Supplemental Essential Variables (When impact testing
required)
 Other information, if desired

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WPS/PQR Forms

Recommended, non-mandatory sample forms in QW-482
and QW-483
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Multiple PQRs Supporting One WPS

Example
 PQR No. 1 with PWHT and PQR No. 2 without PWHT
supports a WPS with and without PWHT
It is possible to have one WPS that covers all possible
welding circumstances
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Single PQR Supporting Multiple WPS

Example
 A PQR is qualified for F4 and F6 electrodes. This PQR
can be used to support a WPS using F4 electrodes
and the second WPS using the F6 electrodes
QW-200.2 allows the use of one PQR to support several
WPS
Permitted Change without
Requalification
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Changes in non-essential variable
 Corrections or update, supported by an exciting PQR

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Permitted Changes to a PQR

Obvious errors or changes supported by data recorded
during test coupon welding
Example: Code- driven material specification change in a
later edition
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Example of a Revised RQR
A section IX revision assigns a P-number to a material
previously qualified by material specifications
 The PQR may now be revised to identify a P-number
rather than just a specific material

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PQR Review

PQRs may be written but
 Always maintain the original
 Never White-out or pencil-in an original PQR
 Always rectify a PQR if revised and note reason for
revision
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Combining Welding Procedures
Several welding processes may be included in one WPS
(qualified separated or combined)
 Section IX treats the following combination procedures:
 More than one welding process used
 More than one F-No. filler metal
 More than one A-No. electrode, except A-1 and A-2

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Examples of Combination Procedures
WPS with ¼” GTAW and ¾” SMAW
 WPS with ½” SMAW (F-1) and ½” SMAW (F-4)
 GTAW WPS and SMAW WPS used to make the same
weld
 WPS with E7018-A1 and E8018-B2 (A-No. difference)

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Qualifying a WPS
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Six steps to Qualify a WPS
Review Essential Variables
 Write Draft WPS
 Weld the test coupon using the WPS
 Prepare test specimens
 Evaluate test results
 Document results on a PQR and certify

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Writing a WPS
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Writing a WPS
What base material will be welded?
 What filler material will be used?
 What welding processes will be used?
 What service or production restriction (s) will be required?

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Base Material
P-Number: QW-422
 Substitute most economical material for testing: QW-424

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Filler Material
F-Number: QW-432
 A-Number: QW-442
 Shielding (Gas, Flux)
 Position restriction

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Processes to be used
Required variables: QW-250
 Production joint types
 Welder technique
 Equipment available

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Service Requirements
Code/Customer
 Preheat/PWHT
 Corrosion
 Notch toughness (supplemental variable)

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Qualifying a WPS

Write an unqualified WPS around job parameters.
Watch variables QW-250 and QW-260
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Qualifying a WPS
Weld the test coupon using unqualified parameters QW250, QW-260
 Monitor all essential variables and record the actual
values on the PQR
 Recommended also recording non-essential
variables
 Record supplementary variables if required

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Qualifying a WPS
Prepare the test coupon into specimens per QW-462,
QW-463
 Cut test coupon to size per QW-451, QW-462,
QW463
 Make the required test per QW-451

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Qualifying a WPS
Evaluate results against Article 1 standards, QW-150 to
QW-260
 Compare unqualified WPS (essential and supplementary
if required)
 Variable with results of the PQR
 Assure compliance to section IX

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Qualifying a WPS

When acceptable, certify the PQR
 The Certificate Holder
• Approves WPS
• Develops WPS and file
• Uses the WPS for production welding
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Additional Qualification

An Additional PQR is required when:
 An essential variable changes
 The validity of the procedure is in doubt
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Notes
A manufacturer must have a WPS that describes the
welding parameters
 The WPS may reference production drawings to covers
some variables
 The WPS may be pieces of paper or documents
 The WPS documentation must be controlled

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How to Change WPS
Amendment (i. e additional PQR’s)
 New (Including Revision)

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Groove Weld Qualification Thickness
Limits and Test Specimens

See reference table QW-451
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QW- 451.1: Example 1
T= .062” to 0.20”
 t= 0.20” max

T= 0.10”
GTAW
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QW- 451.1: Example 2
T= 1/16” to 1/2”
 t= 1/2” max

T= 1/4”
SMAW
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QW- 451.1: Example 3
T= 3/16” to 1”
 t= 1” max

T= 1/2”
SMAW
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QW- 451.1: Example 4

T= 3/16” to 1”
GTAW t= 1/4” max
SMAW t=3/4” max
SMAW = 3/8”
T= 1/2”
GTAW = 1/8”
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QW- 451.1: Example 5

T= 3/16” to 2”
GTAW t= 1/2” max
SMAW t=2” max
SMAW = 3/8”
T= 1”
GTAW = 1/4”
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QW- 451.1: Example 6

T= 3/16” to 2”
F-4 SMAW = 2” max
F-3 SMAW t=1/2” max
3/4“ SMAW F-4
T= 1”
1/4” SMAW F-3
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QW- 451.1: Example 7

T= 3/16” to 8”
GTAW t= 8” max
SMAW t=8” max
SMAW = 3/4”
1-1/2”
GTAW = 3/4”
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QW- 451.1: Example 8

T= 3/16” to 8”
F-4 SMAW t= 8” max
F-1 SMAW t=1/2” max
1-1/4“ SMAW F-4
1-1/2”
1/4” SMAW F-1
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Observation
If the welding material is less than 8” thick, a test coupon
greater than 1-1/2” is not required.
 A weld-deposited metal of 3/4” thick qualifies the weld to
be deposited on maximum thickness.
 Filler metal is still limited to 8” maximum.

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Miscellaneous Application
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WPS for Root Pass or Tack Welding
QW-200.4(b) allows special qualification for root deposit
or tack welds only.
 Deposit filler metal on a 1/2” minimum base metal; the
base metal qualification thickness range is unlimited.
 “t” deposit is limited to 2t

General Variables
QW-202.2
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Variables that may be applicable or may reduce the
number of procedures qualified.
 Partial penetration welds
 Groove and filler weld relationship
 P-11 requirement
 Weld metal repair and build-up
 Dissimilar base material thickness

Full Penetration Groove Welds
QW-202.2(a)
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Full Penetration Groove Welds shall qualify for both base
metal and deposited metal used in production

Qualification for Filler Welds
QW-202.2(c)

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Groove weld test coupon qualifies for all fillet welds:
 Thickness
 Sizes
 Pipe Diameter
 Within essential variables
Note: exemption is P-11A groups 3,4,5 and P-11B which
requires special qualification
Fillet Weld Qualification
QW-202.2(c)
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Table QW-451.3: information for types of tests that must
be performed
 Fillet weld qualification may not be used for pressureretaining welds

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Welding Variables
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QW-253: All Welding Variables (SMAW)
QW-402: Joints
 QW-403: Base Metal
 QW-404: Filler Metals
 QW-405: Positions
 QW-406: Preheat
 QW-407: PWHT
 Qw-409: Electrical
 QW-410: Technique

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Essential Variables: SMAW
QW-403.7: T/t limits>8"
QW-404.5 Ø A No.
QW-403.8:Ø T qualified
QW-404.30: Ø t
QW-403.9: t pass > 1/2"
QW-406.1 Decrease > 100
ºF
QW-403.11: Ø P-No.
qualified
QW-407.1 Ø PWHT
QW-403.13: Ø P-No. 9/10
QW-407.4: T limits
QW-404.4: Ø F-No.
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QW-403.7: T/t Limits > 8”
For thickness > 8”, the procedure test coupon thickness
shall not be less than the thickness of the joint to be
welded in production weld divided by 1.33, and the
maximum thickness of deposited weld metal qualified is
1.33 or 1.33t as applicable.

PWHT
QW-407.1
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A separate PQR is required for each of the following
conditions:
 For P-No. 1,3,4,5,6,9,10 and 11 materials, the
following PWHT conditions apply:
• No PWHT
• PWHT below the lower transformation temperature

Cont’d……
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PWHT
• PWHT above the upper transformation
temperature (e.g. Normalizing)
• PWHT above the upper transformation
temperature followed by heat treatment below the
lower transformation temperature (e.g. Normalizing
or quenching, followed by Tempering)
• PWHT between the upper and lower
transformation temperatures
Cont’d……
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PWHT

For all other materials, the following condition apply:
 No PWHT
 PWHT within a specified temperature range
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Alternative Preheat

For thickness over 1-1/4 to 1-1/2” thick, you may preheat
at 200 ºF
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Non-Essential Variable
QW-402.1
QW-402.4
QW-402.10
QW-402.11
QW-404.6
QW-404.33
QW-405.1
QW-405.3
Ø Groove design
– Backing
Ø Root Spacing
± Retainers
Ø Diameter
Ø AWS Class
+ Position
Ø Vertical up or down
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Non-Essential Variable
QW-406.2
QW-409.8
QW-410.1
QW-410.5
QW-410.5
QW-410.25
QW-410.26
Ø Preheat maintenance
Ø Type I or I & E range
Ø String/Weave
Ø Method Cleaning
Ø Method back gouging
Ø Manual or Automatic
± Peening
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QW-402.1

Change in type of groove
 Vee-groove
 U-groove
 Single bevel
 Double bevel
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QW- 402.4

Deletion of backing in single welded grove welds
 Double welded groove welds are considered welding
with backing
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QW-402.10

A change in specified root spacing.
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QW-402.11
The addition or deletion of nonmetallic retainers or
nonfusing metal retainers

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QW-404.6
A change in the nominal size of the electrode or e
electrodes specified in WPS

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QW-404.33
A change in the SFA specification filler metal
classification; or, if not conforming to an AWS filler metal
classification, a change in the manufacturer’s trade name
for the electrode or filler metal

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QW-405.1
The addition of the welding position than those already
qualified (See QW-120, QW-130 and QW- 303)

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Limits of Position

Electrode must be suitable for the position to be used.

Example: E7024
 May not be used for vertical welding without special
qualification
 Section II only recognize E7024 for flat groove and
horizontal fillet welds
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QW-405.3
A change from upward to downward, or from downward
to upward in the progression specified for any pass of a
vertical weld (the cover or wash pass may be up or down)
 A change in the range of electrode wire feed speed may
be used as an alternative to amperage

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QW-406.2
A change in the maintenance or reduction of preheat
upon completion or welding prior to any required postweld heat treatment

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QW-409.8
A change in the type of current or polarity, a change in
the range of amperage, except for SMAW and GTAW
welding, a change in the range of voltage
 A change in the range of electrode wire feed speed may
be used as an alternative to amperage

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QW-410.1
A change from the stringer bead technique to the weave
bead technique, or vice versa

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QW-410.5
A change in the method of initial and inter-pass cleaning,
(brushing, grinding, etc.)

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QW-410.6

A change in the method of back gouging
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QW-410.25
A change from the manual or semi-automatic to machine
or automatic welding and vice versa

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QW-410.26

Addition or deletion of peening
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Non-Essential Variables
Must be addressed on the WPS but do not require
qualification

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Welder performance
Qualification
QW-300
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Outline
Rules & Definitions
 Welders’ Performance
 Qualification Record
 Welder/Operator Record
 Test Coupons:
 Mechanical Testing
 Radiography
 Essential Variables (SMAW)

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Rules and Definitions
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Rule

Use QW-300, Article III to qualify
welder plus:
 Applicable QW-100 paragraphs
 Applicable QW-100 paragraphs
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Define a Welder
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A Welder is…
One who performs a manual or semi-automatic welding
operations

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A Welder Operator…
… is one who operates machine
or automatic welding equipment
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Purpose of Qualifying a Welder Operator
To determine the operator’s ability to operate the welding
equipment

Welders’ Performance
Qualification Record
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A document used to record the Welder and Welding
operator qualification

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Contents of the WPQ
All applicable variables used by the Welder to make a
test coupon
 Results of test
 Ranges of qualification (same variables only have
minimum or maximum values)

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Essential Variables
For Welders see QW-350
 For Welding Operators see QW-360
 Performance Qualification Record only has essential
variables

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Welder/Operator Records
QW-103.2 requires the Manufacturer to maintain a record
for the results obtained in performance qualification
Records must be certified by the Manufacturer

See non-mandatory Appendix A for
Sample from QW-484
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Welder/Operator Records
Welder’s Continuity Log: used by Manufactures to comply
with QW-322.1

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Test Coupons
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Welding of Test Coupon
Must use a WPS (qualified or not)
 Each coupon must be stamped with the number, symbol
or letter assigned to identify the welder
 Preheat nor PWHT is not required
 WPS qualification may be used for the welder who made
the weld

Visual Examination
QW-302.4
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Plate coupon: Shall be performed on all surfaces (not
marked “discard”)
 Pipe: Shall be performed over the entire circumference,
inside and out.
 Visual examination shall be per QW-194

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Qualification by Radiography
Visual Examination
QW-302.4
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Plate coupon: Shall be performed on all surfaces (not
marked “discard”)
 Pipe: Shall be performed over the entire circumference
inside and out.
 Visual examination shall be per QW-194

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Qualification by Radiography
Radiography may be used in-lieu of mechanical testing
as permitted in QW-304 and QW-305
 Only limited to the following processes
 SMAW, SAW, PAW, GTAW (except for P-6X
materials)
 GMAW (except short circuit)

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Welder Qualification by Radiography
QW-304, QW-302
Test coupon: 6” min. weld length
 Production weld: 6” min. weld length
 Qualification on pipe shall include the entire weld
circumference
 Small dia. pipe may require multiple coupons – the
quantity need not exceed four

Welder Operator Qualification by
Radiography QW-304, QW-302
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Test coupon: 6” min. weld length
 Production weld: 6” min. weld length
 Qualification on pipe shall include the entire weld
circumference
 Small dia. pipe may require multiple coupons – the
quantity need not exceed four coupons

Requirements of Radiography
QW-191
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Technique must meet ASME Code Section V, Article 2
 Acceptance Criteria per QW-191.2

Welding Operator Radiographic
Acceptance Criteria
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Same as welder as using test coupons
 Same as Construction Code acceptance criteria on
production test coupon (QW-191.2.3)

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Failure of Test Coupon
Immediate retest using same method
 Mechanical: Two consecutive test coupons
 Radiography: Two consecutive test coupons (NOT 12”
in one coupon)
 With additional training, just start over
 No specific requirements for training in Section IX

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WPS Exceptions
Examples of welding variables with no impact for
performance qualification
 Preheat and PWHT
 Substitution of base material per QW-423
 Possible substitution of filler metal
 Impact testing

Requirements of Radiography
QW-191
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Not welding with a process during a six month period
 Specific reason to question ability

Renewal of Qualification
QW-322.2
For each process
 One test
 Any material, thickness, plate or pipe
 Any position
 Requalifies all previous qualifications

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Welder Essential Variables
SMAW
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QW-353: SMAW
Paragraph
QW-402
Joints
Brief of Variables
.4
Deletion of Backing
QW-403
Base Material
.16
Ø Pipe Diameter
.18
Ø P-No.
QW-404
Filler metals
.15
Ø F-No.
.30
Ø t weld deposit
QW-405
Position
.1
Ø position
.3
Ø ↑↓ Vertical Welding
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QW-402.4
The deletion of the backing in single welded groove joints
 Double- welded groove welds are considered welding
with backing

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QW-353: SMAW
Paragraph
QW-402
Joints
Brief of Variables
.4
Deletion of Backing
QW-403
Base Material
.16
Ø Pipe Diameter
.18
Ø P-No.
QW-404
Filler metals
.15
Ø F-No.
.30
Ø t weld deposit
QW-405
Position
.1
Ø position
.3
Ø ↑↓ Vertical Welding
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QW-403.16
A change in pipe diameter beyond the range qualified in
QW-452, except as otherwise permitted in QW-303.1 and
QW-303.2

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QW-353: SMAW
Paragraph
QW-402
Joints
Brief of Variables
.4
Deletion of Backing
QW-403
Base Material
.16
Ø Pipe Diameter
.18
Ø P-No.
QW-404
Filler metals
.15
Ø F-No.
.30
Ø t weld deposit
QW-405
Position
.1
Ø position
.3
Ø ↑↓ Vertical Welding
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QW-403.18
A change from one P-Number to another P-Number or to
a base metal not listed in QW-422, except as permitted in
QW-423 and QW- 420.2 (S-Number)

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QW-353: SMAW
Paragraph
QW-402
Joints
Brief of Variables
.4
Deletion of Backing
QW-403
Base Material
.16
Ø Pipe Diameter
.18
Ø P-No.
QW-404
Filler metals
.15
Ø F-No.
.30
Ø t weld deposit
QW-405
Position
.1
Ø position
.3
Ø ↑↓ Vertical Welding
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QW-404.15
A change from one F-Number in QW-432 to any FNumber or to any other filler metal, except as permitted in
QW-433

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QW-353: SMAW
Paragraph
QW-402
Joints
Brief of Variables
.4
Deletion of Backing
QW-403
Base Material
.16
Ø Pipe Diameter
.18
Ø P-No.
QW-404
Filler metals
.15
Ø F-No.
.30
Ø t weld deposit
QW-405
Position
.1
Ø position
.3
Ø ↑↓ Vertical Welding
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QW-404.30
A change in deposited weld metal thickness beyond the
range qualified in QW-452, except as otherwise permitted
in QW-303.31 and QW-303.2
 When a welder is qualified using Radiography, the
thickness range of QW-452.1 apply

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Deposited Metal Thickness
QW-452.1
Type
of
Joint
Thickness of
test Coupon
Welded
Thickness "t" of
deposited weld metal
qualified
Max
Groove
Groove
Groove
Up to 3/8"
2t
Over 3/8"
2t
1/2" and Over
Max. to be Welded
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Test Positions
Four positions for welding with plate
IG, 2G, 3G, 4G
 Four positions for welding with pipe
IG, 2G, 5G, 6G

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Groove Weld in Plate Test Position
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Groove Weld in Plate Test Position
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Groove Weld in Plate Test Position
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Groove Weld in Plate Test Position
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Groove Welds Pipe Test Position
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Groove Welds Pipe Test Position
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Groove Welds Pipe Test Position
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Groove Welds Pipe Test Position
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Fillet Weld Plate Test Position
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Limits of Qualified Position and Diameter
Welders qualified in the grooves position in QW-461.9
shall be qualified to weld for that position in both groove
and fillet welds
 Welders shall also be qualified to make fillet welds in all
thickness and pipe diameter

Qualification Test
Position and type Weld Qualified [Note
1]
back
Groove
Fillet
Plate and Pipe
Plate – Groove
to contents
Pipes ≤ 24" OD
Plate and Pipe
1G
F
F [Note 2]
F
2G
F,H
F,H [Note 2]
F,H
3G
F,V
F [Note 2]
F,H,V
4G
F,O
F [Note 2]
F,H,O
3G and 4G
F,V,O
F [Note 2]
All
2G, 3G and 4G
All
F,H [Note 2]
All
Special Positions
SP
SP [Note 2]
SP,F
1F
...
...
F [Note 2]
2F
...
...
F,H [Note 2]
3F
...
...
F,H,V [Note 2]
4F
...
...
F,H,O [Note 2]
3F and 4F
...
...
All [Note 2]
Special Positions
...
...
SP,F [Note 2]
1G
F
F
F
2G
F,H
F,H
F,H
5G
F,V,O
F,V,O
All
6G
All
All
All
2G and 5G
All
All
All
Special Positions
SP
SP
SP,F
Plate - Fillet
1F
...
...
F
[Note 3]
2F
...
...
F,H
2FR
...
...
F,H
4F
...
...
F,H,O
5F
...
...
All
Special Positions
...
...
SP,F
Pipe – Filter
Pipe – Groove
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Position Qualification
The Welder is qualified to weld
 Vertical
 Overhead
 Flat Positions
 For both
 Pipe
 Plate

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Position Qualification

The Welder Welded in Position 5G Pipe.
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Position Qualification

The Welder Welded in Position: 2G Pipe.
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Position Qualification

The Welder Welded 2G, 3G & 4G Plate
2G
3G
4G
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Position Qualification
The Welder is qualified to weld in both horizontal and flat
positions

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Position Qualification
The Welder is qualified to all positions in both plate and
pipe, NPS 24 and over
 Is the Welder qualified to weld all positions on an NPS 10
pipe

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QW-353: SMAW
Paragraph
QW-402
Joints
Brief of Variables
.4
Deletion of Backing
QW-403
Base Material
.16
Ø Pipe Diameter
.18
Ø P-No.
QW-404
Filler metals
.15
Ø F-No.
.30
Ø t weld deposit
QW-405
Position
.1
Ø position
.3
Ø ↑↓ Vertical Welding
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QW-405.3
A change from upward to downward, or from downward to
upward, in the progression specified for any pass of a
vertical weld, except that the cover or wash pass may be
up or down
 The root pass may be run either up or down when the
root pass is removed to sound weld metal in preparation for
welding the second side

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THE END