This specification provides requirements for welding procedure and welding performance qualification. It is the intent that this specification be referenced by other documents, such as codes, specifications, contracts, and quality control or quality assurance manuals. Such documents are recognized in this specification as Referencing Documents. Requirements imposed by the Referencing Document supersede the requirements of this specification.
The requirements for the qualification of welding procedures are provided in Clause 4, Procedure Qualification. The requirements for the performance qualification of welders and welding operators are provided in Clause 5, Performance Qualification.
This specification also defines and establishes qualification variables. Qualification requirements are based on the premise that the Referencing Document will specify fabrication, design, base metal, filler metal, preheat, interpass temperature, postweld heat treatment (PWHT), nondestructive examination, and test requirements applicable to the product. Welding procedure and performance qualifications which meet the requirements of other codes and specifications are acceptable, provided they also meet the requirements of this specification.
Base metals and filler metals have been grouped into categories that will minimize the number of qualification tests required. Substitution of one base metal or filler metal for another, even when within the allowable rules, should only be made after an evaluation of the material’s suitability for its intended use. For some materials, additional tests may be appropriate to verify the material’s suitability. Materials not listed require separate qualification.
