Our complete guide to Weld Procedure Qualification

What is Weld Procedure Qualification?

Weld procedure qualification is the process of testing and certifying a welding procedure to ensure that it meets the required standards and specifications. This process is necessary to ensure that the welding process will produce a strong and reliable joint that is suitable for the intended application.

The procedure qualification process involves several steps, including the development of a welding procedure specification (WPS), the preparation and welding of test specimens, and the testing and evaluation of the resulting welds. The testing may include mechanical testing, such as tensile, bend, or impact testing, as well as non-destructive testing, such as radiography or ultrasonic testing.

The results of the testing are then analyzed to determine if the welds meet the required standards and specifications. If the welds pass the testing, a welding procedure qualification record (WPQR) is issued, which serves as evidence that the welding procedure has been qualified and is suitable for use.

Weld procedure qualification is an essential part of ensuring the quality and safety of welded structures and components. It is commonly used in industries such as construction, oil and gas, and manufacturing, where welded structures and components are widely used.

What is a weld procedure coupon?

A weld procedure coupon, also known as a weld test coupon, is a small piece of metal that is used to test and qualify a welding procedure. The coupon is typically made from the same material as the structure or component that will be welded, and is prepared and welded according to the welding procedure specification (WPS).

The purpose of the weld procedure coupon is to simulate the conditions of the actual weld, including the type of joint, the welding process, and the welding parameters. The weld is then subjected to various tests, such as tensile, bend, or impact testing, to ensure that it meets the required standards and specifications.

The results of the testing are then used to qualify the welding procedure, and a welding procedure qualification record (WPQR) is issued to demonstrate that the welding procedure has been tested and meets the required standards. This WPQR serves as evidence that the welding procedure is suitable for use in production welding.

Weld procedure coupons are commonly used in industries such as construction, oil and gas, and manufacturing, where welded structures and components are widely used. They are an essential part of the welding procedure qualification process, as they ensure that the welding procedure will produce strong and reliable welds that meet the required standards and specifications.

In the oil and gas industry, welding is a critical process that is used to join materials and fabricate structures and components that are subject to high pressures, temperatures, and corrosive environments. As a result, it is essential that the welding procedures used in this industry are of the highest quality and meet the required standards and specifications.

Why is it critical that an ISO accredited laboratory issue weld procedure coupons, especially in the oil and gas industry?

ISO accreditation is a globally recognized standard that ensures that laboratories have the necessary technical competence to perform specific tests and calibrations. Accreditation demonstrates that the laboratory has the appropriate equipment, facilities, and staff to perform testing and certification services to the highest standards.

When an ISO accredited laboratory issues weld procedure coupons, it provides assurance that the welding procedure has been tested and certified by an independent third-party that has been accredited to the highest standards. This provides additional confidence that the welding procedure will produce strong and reliable welds that meet the required standards and specifications.

Moreover, in the oil and gas industry, the consequences of welding failures can be severe and costly, both in terms of safety and financial impact. Therefore, it is essential to ensure that welding procedures are qualified to the highest standards, and ISO accredited laboratories play a critical role in this process. The use of ISO accredited laboratories provides an additional layer of quality control and verification that is essential for ensuring the safety and reliability of welded structures and components in the oil and gas industry.