Welder certificate validity period according to ASME IX

[Odd01]

Hi,

I have look into the ASME IX QW-322 related to validity/expiration of a welder cerificat and there is only mention that the welding operator certificate shall be "affected" when he has not welded with a process during a periode of 6 months or more, or there is a specific reason to question his ability to make weld that meet the specification.

My question is if there is not a 2-years validity time for the certificate in addition to this 6 month time the welder need to have been welded, or any sign on the certificate from the manufacturing responsible welding co-ordinator?
To check a cerificate from a supplier if you not have see he welded, or have any documentation from his work from NDE(RT/UT)the last 6 month without have a signature on his welder certificate that can prove his welding within 6 month, how can you then trust the welder/certificate?

 

[stanweld]

As long as the welder's continuity is maintained by his employer, there is no time limit; there is no 2-year limit. Ask the employer/Manufacturer to view its Continuity Log, if you have concern.

 

[gtaw]

The code is silent with regards to the system implemented by the contractor to maintain welder continuity. The contractor can use a log, cosign the back of the welder performance record, or implement any system that suits their needs.

There is no code requirement that the welding performed meet any specific code or WPS or that the weld must be inspected. The code simply says the welder qualification remains intact unless the welder has not used the welding process for more than 6-months or if there is a reason to question the welder’s skill. If the welder fixes a manure spreader, welds a bumper hitch, saves the cruise ship by welding a patch while at sea in a typhoon, it is all the same as far as the code is concern.

If the contractor holds an ASME stamp or if certified by AISC or AWS they will have to address the issue of welder continuity in the quality control manual. If you are a third party inspector your initial site inspection should include a request to see and review the contractor’s QC manual. Once that has been accomplished the TPI should verify the requirements of the contractor’s QC manual are actually implemented.


Best regards - Al

 

[metengr]

This problem sometimes happens when organizations do not maintain past continuity logs for a given time period (6 months). In other words, some continuity logs are revised monthly and to go back and verify when a welder welded with a particular process can be problematic to some QA folks or auditors. In this case, the organization's quality manual should have specific reference as to how the welder continuity log is to be maintained (monthly, quarterly or semi-annual).

Section IX does not describe how continuity logs are to be kept that is up to the organization. There was an interpretation issued on this by Section IX. The NBIC had to deal with this specific issue about 5 years ago by revising the code to describe the method of maintaining welder continuity records in the QC manual.

 

[Kiwi2671]

Here is the interpretation that metengr mentioned (I hope it is the correct one. LOL)

Interpretation: I)<-95-38
Subject: Section IX, QW-322, Expiration and Renewal of Qualification
Date Issued: January 6, 1997
File: Question: Is it a requirement of QW-322 for a manufacturer to maintain records to demonstrate a welder's or welding operator's continuing qualification for a process from the date of the original qualification test?
Reply: Section IX does not address how conformance to QW-322 is demonstrated. Other book sections may address the maintenance of records.

Regards,
Kiwi

 

[Odd01]

Thanks to all of you for helpful information.

Regards,
Odd01

 

[GenB]

the Code is silent on the subject but do not forget you are dealing with a qualification. the weld qualification shall be on Code construction, why leaving loose ends about where the welder put his weld (not on a tin can or a tractor or instrument)
but on Code construction. at my shop welders recorded qualification mention the job the welder welded on or completed. if was NDE'd is also mentioned. a perfect alibi.

 

[Kiwi2671]

Gen B,
Does not have to be on code construction work - can be on a tin can or a tractor or an instrument.
Obviously from an employers (or clients) perspective coded work would be preferable but not required by the ASME IX code,
Cheers,
Kiwi

 

[bpv66]

This is one of the differences between Section IX and the Pressure Equipment Directive (PED). PED requires the welder renew qualifications every two years. Section IX does not.