Course description

Prior to welding, the inspector must be assured that the materials are correct and that the shop has approved welding procedures and appropriately qualified welders. Written procedures and competent operators are important to the production of a quality welded product, but the actual execution of the weld is also a critical point for the inspector. Once the inspector is satisfied that all is in order for the welding to proceed, the task becomes one of witnessing and monitoring. There are two basic interests at this point: ensuring that the written procedures are being followed; and checking for any physical signs of non-conformance of the final product. The inspector’s responsibilities are to verify base metals and welding consumables, observe the fit-up and preparation for the weld, and watch the welding operation itself. Once the welding is completed, a new series of inspection tasks begin, which start with executing an inspection programme according to an approved procedure, maintaining the status of examination and testing and selecting specific welds for further NDT or mechanical testing.

What will i learn?

• Conduct direct unaided visual inspection to identify and evaluate welding imperfection according to acceptance criteria;
• Verify, witness and understand all welding related activities in fabrication, including (but not limited to) the following points:
• Verify the adequacy of information on NDT reports (VT, PT, MT, RT, UT) for conventional techniques;
• Verify data and adequacy of material certificates (base and filler materials);
• Verify identification and treacability of the materials during the fabrication process;
• Verify the compliance of raw materials and consumables against the applicable standards, codes and specifications;
• Verify the implementation of the WPS in production for conventional applications (e.g. arc welding processes, steels
• Verify the implementation of PWHT specifications in production;
• Witness welder approval tests including testing of the specimens or test coupons;
• Witness production test coupons;
• Read and understand an Inspection Testing Plan;
• Read and understand the construction drawings in relation to inspection activities; and
• Report any of the above actions to a qualified supervisor.