ASME Welders Qualification 1

[1973Patrick]

Hello,
Can a welders qualification be extended only based on a welding process, regardless material group, filler etc...

Example: You have several Welding Procedures Specifications with different material groups, filler metal etc...but only with GTAW.
A welder is welding one of the WPS'en within the group is P1. Can this be used to renew the qualification for all the WPS's?
It seems strange to me when a welder did not welded a P8 material for more than one year, but will get an qualification extension only by welding a P1 with GTAW poces!


regards Patrick

 

[gtaw]

ASME and other codes specify the minimum requirements that must be met. The contractor has the obligation to meet the code minimums and to conduct any additional tests necessary to ensure the integrity of their product.

If the contractor feels that it is necessary to have the welder take additional qualification tests to ensure they have the skills necessary to produce acceptable welds, it is their responsibility to administer those additional tests.

In a like manner, an Owner can include any additional requirements necessary to ensure the products delivered are suitable for the intended service. The project specification can expand upon the code minimums and require the welder to weld hanging upside down from one leg if that is what is necessary.

I have several clients that agree with you, i.e., welding carbon steel is not the same as welding stainless steel. They require their welders to demonstrate their ability to weld carbon steel, austenitic stainless steel, and nickel using separate coupons. There is nothing in the code that prevents them from taking the conservative position.


Best regards - Al

 

[metengr]

Can a welder’s qualification be extended only based on a welding process, regardless material group, filler etc...

The welders qualification is renewed not extended. Second, as with any code or standard, volunteer members give of their time write to rules that are minimum requirements, and try to apply to all aspects of use. Not every user will be happy and that is the way it goes.
Here is an alternative to your position - why should I require a welder to renew qualification on every base material, filler metal combination when welding is performed day in and day out with a particular process? So, as with any consensus code, a happy medium is reached regarding welder performance expiration and renewals.

 

[jwhit]

The code bases much of it's performance qualification criteria on the fact that if a welder qualifies on GTAW and continues to use GTAW he is qualified on that process. If a welder qualifies to a qualified P1 procedure, he is considered qualified for a group of materials from P1 to P11. He also qualifies to weld on a P34 material by welding to a qualified procedure for that material. Both procedures are GTAW. He doesn't weld on P34 but he continually welds on P1 thru P11 materials. He maintains his continuity on P34 by virtue of using the GTAW process.
It is logical to do it this way, since the mechanics of welding are pretty much the same regardless of material and he has already proven the ability to weld by passing the initial phase of testing. The differences come into play with things like pre-heat, interpass, heat input etc. which can affect the weld properties.