Welders qualification

INTRODUCTION

A WPQ (Welder Performance Qualification Record) or WOPQ (Welding Operator Performance Qualification Record) is drawn up to indicate that a welder is able to weld according to a certain procedure.

SCOPE

Approved welding operators and welding procedures are necessary in several sectors, such as:

For organisations that apply welding methods according to predetermined welding conditions for welding material that falls under the following categories: 
 

  • manufacturers of pressure vessels and boilers
  • metalworks
  • manufacture of storage tanks
  • pipelines, tubes and fittings
  • material for transport of hazardous substances
  • shipbuilding industry
  • structural steelwork
  • welded structures
  • manufacture of lifting and hoisting equipment
  • scaffolding

STANDARD CONTENT

The test is carried out based on the required standards. The most common standards are:

  • EN ISO 9606-1 (Steel)
  • EN ISO 9606-2 (Aluminium)
  • EN ISO 9606-3 (Copper and copper alloys)
  • EN ISO 9606-4 (Nickel and nickel alloys)
  • EN ISO 9606-5 (Titanium, zirconium and their alloys)
  • ASME CODE Part IX

CERTIFICATION PROCESS

During the test, the welder welds a work piece according to the required standard criteria in the presence of a Bureau Veritas inspector. After welding and recording the parameters, the Bureau Veritas Inspector carries out a visual inspection in order to confirm compliance with the necessary criteria. After a positive visual inspection, further non-destructive and/or destructive tests are carried out depending on what is required for the standard.

When all tests have been found to be in accordance with the set criteria, a WPQ or WOPQ certificate can be issued, accompanied by the reporting of the tests carried out.

The customer will provide the work pieces to be welded, and will provide the Bureau Veritas Inspector with all documentation relating to the qualifications of the welder to be evaluated before commencement of the test. In addition, the customer will ensure a safe environment to perform the test with sufficient light.

ADDITIONAL STANDARDS

  • Welding method qualification
  • Conformity assessment
  • EN 1090
  • ISO 3834
  • Inspection of welded material

INFORMATION

For additional information about services and the application possibilities, please refer to the contact details on the front of this sheet.