Welding Procedure Specification (WPS) Question

When I was quality manager, we didn't need to cover the non-structural with a WPS, as the focus of the quality program was to limit failures to the customer. It is advisable (imho) to make all your materials and MTR's comply anyway, as that is simplest for auditing.. no double standards. We welded small tabs on the sides of hydraulic reservoirs for clamping control tubing down, etc, and it was non structural... simply prevented the tubes from rattling when the equipment was vibrating.

the rest of the product was under API and ISO 9001-2000

good luck

Chris

A WPS is required for AWS and ASME HPV's. The contractor must have a document that indicates the welding conditions and structure (blueprint), even if the weld is non-structural.

If this is an inspection question, have the contractor prove that the weld(s) will support the loads required. Even a non-structural bulkhead has to be able to support a load (transformer[s], lights, etc.)

Good luck in the contest, but remember, it is the contractor's responsibility to prove his/her work.

By non-structural welding do you mean pressure containing welds? Yes, you will have to make qualifications for your pressure containing welds. Norms for pressure containing weld qualifications are more stringent than those for structural welds. In fact, often a WPS for pressure containing welds can be used for structural welding without modifications. If your structural welding WPS has followed a Pressure Vessel Code (like ASME Sec IX) and if your Code of Construction is ASME BPVC, the existing WPS may be adequate.

Is there any specification applicable to this non-structural welding? I always advise to draw up a WPS even when not required this to ensure that parameter can be verified during welding and afterwards when perhaps any problem arises. When not required by specification and/or client requirement you may use your present WPS for structural welding if the material to weld is in range of your WPS. best regards, Herman Pieper