ASME IX PQR - Fillet weld for pressure parts

[1973Patrick]

Hi,
I have a PQR for a fillet weld (only with macro). Can I use it for fillet welds on a pressure-containing component?
Someone told me that a WPS for fillet welds for pressure containing components in production should be qualified with a butt weld.

Regards, Patrick

 

[fleischfresser]

1973Patrick,

the applicable paragraph of ASME IX is QW-202.2 (c) Qualification for Fillet Welds. The first sentence states “WPS qualification for fillet welds may be made on groove‐weld test coupons using test specimens specified in (a) or (b).” In this sentence the key word “may” is used, which implies that is a recommendation only (if you stop reading the paragraph).

But one of the main rules for the use of ASME BPVC is the reading of the whole paragraph. The penultimate sentence of QW-202.2 (c) is: “Nonpressure‐retaining fillet welds, as defined in other Sections of the Code, may as an alternate be qualified with fillet welds only”. And the inverse conclusion of this sentence is pressure‐retaining fillet welds must be qualified by groove‐weld test coupons.

In addition please find below the supporting Interpretation of my opinion:
Interpretation: IX-89-87
Subject: Section IX, QW-202.2(c)
Date Issued: January 2, 1991
File: BC90-745
Question: May pressure retaining fillet welds be qualified by means other than a groove weld test coupon?
Reply: No.


Regards - Juergen