Welder, welding operator, and tack welder qualification tests determine the ability of the persons tested to produce acceptably sound welds with the process, materials, and procedure required in the tests. Various codes, specifications, and governing rules generally prescribe similar methods for qualifying welders, welding operators, and tack welders. The applicable code or specification should be consulted for precise details and requirements.
Welding operators frequently take qualifying tests to comply with the requirements of a code or specification governing a particular type of work on which the operator is to be employed. Table T-11 lists some of the principal codes and specifications containing rules for qualifying welding operators. Each of these codes contains specific provisions governing the procedure to be followed in qualifying welding operators for work under that code. The codes usually provide for the following requirements:
(1) The manner of supervising the tests
(2)The number and types of tests required
(3) The method of welding the specimens
(4) The method of testing the specimens
(5) The test results required
(6)Provision for retests in the event of initial failure
(7) The period of time qualification is effective
(8) The method of requalification.
In some cases, the codes prescribe a specific method of recording the results of the qualification tests. Usually the method requires completing a form covering qualifications, issuing a certificate, and filing these records with the employer.
No two codes are exactly alike with respect to the provisions for qualifying welding operators, so it necessary, when seeking detailed information as to the types of tests required and the method of test supervision, to consult the specific code or specification governing the particular type of work to be done.
