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Definition: Weld seam testing comprises all testing measures for assessing the quality and integrity of welded joints. It serves to verify that the joint meets the specified requirements. The selection of testing methods is governed by DIN EN ISO 17635.

Practical relevance: Non-destructive testing methods (NDT) such as ultrasonic testing (UT), radiography (RT), magnetic particle testing (MT) or penetrant testing (PT) identify internal and external defects. In addition, destructive tests such as tensile, bend or notched-bar impact tests can be carried out. Assessment criteria are derived from DIN EN ISO 5817 (quality levels for imperfections).

Decision-making perspectives:

• Technical decision-makers: Selection of suitable testing methods according to component requirements and safety class.
• Purchasing/project management: Definition of test classes, acceptance criteria and scope of documentation.
• Science: Analysis of weld seam microstructure, residual stresses and defect types.
• Insurance/law: Verification of standard-compliant testing and quality assurance in the event of damage.

Typical testing or verification methods: UT, RT, MT, PT, visual testing (VT), metallographic sections.

FAQ:

• Which standard governs the assessment of weld seam defects?
• DIN EN ISO 5817 defines quality levels and assessment groups for imperfections.

Definition: Welding engineering consulting is the technical advisory service for the planning, qualification and monitoring of welding processes. It covers material selection, weld seam design, procedure qualification and compliance with normative requirements. The aim is to ensure technical integrity and regulatory conformity.

Practical relevance: Consulting topics include, among others, the preparation and review of welding procedure specifications (WPS), procedure qualifications (WPQR), material combinations and heat treatment. Relevant standards are DIN EN ISO 15614 (procedure qualification), DIN EN ISO 9606 (welder qualification) and DIN EN ISO 3834 (quality requirements). Errors in welding planning can lead to cracking, distortion or susceptibility to corrosion.

Decision-making perspectives:

• Technical decision-makers: Selection of suitable welding procedures and safeguarding of safety-critical joints.
• Purchasing/project management: Assessment of supplier qualification and normative conformity.
• Science: Analysis of microstructural changes, residual stresses and heat-affected zones.
• Insurance/law: Verification of proper planning and execution in the event of damage.

Typical testing or verification methods: Document review (WPS/WPQR), weld seam testing (UT, RT), metallographic analysis, hardness testing.

FAQ:

• When is welding engineering consulting required?
• For safety-relevant constructions, new material combinations or increased regulatory requirements.

Definition: The welding procedure qualification test is the qualifying proof that a defined welding procedure, under specified parameters, reproducibly achieves the required quality. The result is documented in a welding procedure qualification record (WPQR). The requirements are governed by DIN EN ISO 15614.

Practical relevance: The test comprises welding a test piece under realistic conditions as well as subsequent destructive and non-destructive testing. Typical tests are the tensile test, bend test, notched-bar impact test, hardness testing and macroscopic examination. The qualified parameters (e.g. current, heat input, material group) define the validity range of the WPS.

Decision-making perspectives:

• Technical decision-makers: Ensuring the process stability and mechanical performance of the welded joint.
• Purchasing/project management: Requiring valid WPQR documents as a prerequisite for awarding contracts.
• Science: Analysis of heat-affected zones, microstructural transformations and residual stresses.
• Insurance/law: Proof of standard-compliant procedure qualification in cases of damage.

Typical testing or verification methods: Tensile test, bend test, notched-bar impact test, hardness testing, macroscopic section examination, NDT.

FAQ:

• What is the difference between WPS and WPQR?
• The WPS describes the welding procedure, while the WPQR documents its successfully tested qualification.