ASME IX.Guidance

[Histogram]

My company has hired a welding consultant to assist with welding compliance to ASME IX. We do not have nor intend to get an ASME stamp but use section IX as a guide for our welding certifications. My job is to compile appropriate documentation for our Quality Management System (ISO 9001-2000). The consultant is very vague when answering questions. Such as, can multiple PQRs be used under one WPS or vise versa. What documents are required to show our welders and processes are able to perform the work we do.
Also, what type of reports and support should I expect from this constant. Also, if I could be directed to the sections of ASME IX that explain this scenario I would be grateful. Also, The consultant has us using an Amperage probe to verify welding current I have never heard of this for ISO 9001-2000, welding current on the welding machine was “for reference only. Any suggestions would be greatly appreciated.

Thanks,
Dave ASQ CQE

 

[metengr]

Dave;
You need to clearly set expectations as to their responsibility. If you are using ASME Section IX as a guide, here is what I would do in your position regarding the responsibility of the welding consultant;

1. Establish a formal welding program to both generate and qualify weld procedure specifications using base materials and filler metals applicable to your process. This would also apply to your welder certifications in accordance with ASME Section IX guidelines.

2. I would expect your consultant to either generate formal procedures or instructions for performing and maintaining the above welding program. Also, the consultant should review your current welding equipment capability and provide recommendations regarding purchasing of additional equipment to perhaps optimize welding processes.

3. Last, once your weld procedure and welder certification program has been developed, I would expect the consultant to provide some training to your QA/QC Manager and your new welders to familiarize them with this new program.


If your welding consultant cannot do the three objectives I mentioned above, kick their a## out the door and find a replacement welding consultant.

 

[unclesyd]

I fully support the last statement in metengr's post as there is nothing more frustrating than have someone hired to help solve a problem and they get mealy mouth.

You might want to checkout C-Spec for software to support your welding program. As your are just beginning it is the time to get the programs.

http://www.cspec.com/