WELDER QUALIFICATION TEST (WQT)

After the client’s approval of the WPS, a WQT shall be performed by the welding engineer/welding inspector. The welding engineer shall check the previous performance record/qualification of the welders prior to the WQT.

Inexperienced welders shall not be given any test. The welding inspector shall strictly inspect the joints visually after weld completion and the welding engineer shall interpret the radiograph strictly to avoid poor-quality welders. The welding engineer shall exercise appropriate control to scrutinize the welders so that during production the weld repair percentage is at a minimum.

Items to be Considered While Issuing a Contract to the Fabrication Subcontractor

1. Only one test will be given to any welder. Penalty clause will be applicable for repeated WQT.
2. A minimum charge per test shall be mentioned in the welding subcontractor’s contract.
3. After passing the WQT, the welder should work until the completion of the project. If a welder leaves the project, a penalty shall be charged to the subcontractor.
4. Individual welder repair percentage shall not exceed the acceptable limit specified for the project/client. If the weld repair percentage exceeds the limit, all the repair costs (equipment, consumables, NDT charges, etc.) shall be charged to the subcontractor.
5. Due to the weld repairs, if any penalty joints are to be radiographed/repaired, the cost related to this NDT/repair also shall be charged to the subcontractor.

DOs

• Check whether the contract/work order is issued to the fabrication subcontractor, NDT, TPI and mechanical testing lab prior to starting the WQT.
• Check the calibrated instruments/equipment area available prior to WQT.

DON’Ts

• Don’t start the PQR without having sufficient welding consumables, argon gas, etc.