CWS (ABWM) flashcards

32 cards. Read the term and the definition here. The deck at the top of this page is optional.

WPS

A written welding procedure specification that gives qualified ranges for process, filler, preheat, current, position, and technique so the welder can produce a sound weld.

PQR

Procedure qualification record documenting the actual test weld variables and destructive test results that prove a WPS is sound.

Welder performance qualification

Test of a welder's ability to deposit sound weld metal using a qualified procedure; it qualifies the person, not the procedure, and has position and thickness limits.

Essential variable

A WPS or qualification variable that, if changed beyond the code's permitted range, requires requalification because it can affect weld properties.

First-pass yield

Percentage of welds accepted at first inspection without repair; calculated as accepted welds divided by total inspected, times 100.

Nonconformance report

Document recording a weld or product that fails requirements, including location, type, size, code reference, and the approved disposition.

Continuity of qualification

Requirement that a welder use a qualified process within a defined period; if not, the qualification lapses until revalidated.

Stop-work authority

Supervisor's right and duty to halt welding when procedures, qualified personnel, calibrated equipment, or safety controls are not in place.

SMAW

Shielded metal arc welding uses a flux-coated consumable electrode; the flux creates shielding gas and slag that protect the molten weld.

GTAW

Gas tungsten arc welding uses a non-consumable tungsten electrode and inert shielding gas; it is often used for root passes and thin material.

GMAW transfer modes

Short-circuit, globular, spray, and pulsed spray describe how molten metal moves from electrode to workpiece and affect penetration, spatter, and position capability.

FCAW

Flux-cored arc welding uses a tubular wire containing flux; it may be self-shielded or gas-shielded and offers high deposition rates.

SAW

Submerged arc welding uses a continuous wire and granular flux blanket; the arc is hidden, deposition is high, and it is usually automatic.

Heat input formula

Heat input in kJ/in equals (60 x voltage x amperage) divided by (1000 x travel speed in inches per minute).

Carbon equivalent

CE = C + Mn/6 + (Cr+Mo+V)/5 + (Ni+Cu)/15; higher values indicate greater hardenability and need for preheat.

Preheat

Application of heat to the base metal before welding to slow cooling, reduce hydrogen cracking risk, and help fusion in thick or high-carbon steel.

PWHT

Postweld heat treatment, usually stress relief, is performed after welding to reduce residual stress and hardness when the code or service requires it.

Penetrant testing

PT applies a liquid penetrant to a cleaned surface; it reveals open surface discontinuities such as cracks and porosity after developer is applied.

Magnetic particle testing

MT magnetizes ferromagnetic material and applies iron particles; it detects surface and near-surface discontinuities such as cracks and lack of fusion.

Radiographic testing

RT passes X-rays or gamma rays through a weld onto film or a detector; it reveals internal volumetric flaws such as porosity and slag.

Ultrasonic testing

UT sends high-frequency sound into the weld and reads echoes; it detects internal planar flaws and is useful on thick sections.

Fillet weld gauge

Inspection tool used to measure fillet weld leg size, throat thickness, and convexity against the size specified on the drawing or WPS.

Acceptance criteria

Code or contract limits that define whether a discontinuity is rejectable; they specify type, size, and location of allowable imperfections.

NDT personnel certification

Formal qualification of inspection personnel to a recognized standard, covering method, level, and limits of competence.

Welding symbol

AWS A2.4 notation showing joint type, weld size, length, spacing, contour, and reference line; the tail can carry process or specification.

Hot work permit

Written authorization for welding or cutting that confirms fire precautions, gas testing, and fire watch are in place before work begins.

Fire watch

Trained person assigned to watch for fire during and after hot work; combustibles within 35 feet must be moved or protected.

Hexavalent chromium

Hazardous fume constituent that can form when welding stainless steel or hardfacing alloys; it requires adequate ventilation and may require respiratory protection.

Operator factor

Ratio of arc-on time to paid work time; improving fit-up, positioning, and consumable supply raises it and lowers labor cost per weld.

Deposition efficiency

Weight of metal actually deposited divided by weight of consumable consumed; it indicates filler loss from spatter, stub, or flux.

Duty cycle

Percentage of a ten-minute period a welding machine can operate at rated output without overheating; it limits production current at higher amperages.

Confined space entry

Entry into a confined space requires atmospheric testing, a permit, an attendant outside, and rescue provisions before anyone enters.