I-CAR SWQT case studies
I-CAR SWQT · Put your knowledge to work in context.
The I-CAR Steel Welding Qualification Test (SWQT) is a welding qualification credential for collision repair technicians who join, section, and replace steel body panels. It is aimed at technicians already working in body shops, apprentices building toward structural repair roles, and estimators or shop leads who need to understand what a qualified weld actually requires. The I-CAR SWQT case studies are 5 cases and about 4,565 words.
1Quarter Panel Stitch Welds That Keep Blowing Holes (Galvanized 1.2 mm)
A 2016 unibody sedan needs its left quarter panel replaced. The outer panel is 1.2 mm galvanized high-strength steel over a 1.4 mm inner reinforcement, and the OEM procedure calls for stitch MIG welds at 20 mm on, 20 mm off along the top and a continuous seam at the rocker.
882 words, about 4 min2Squeeze-Type Spot Welds Shrinking Through a Three-Thickness Stack
A 2019 unibody SUV is having its left rear rail replaced where it joins the floor pan. The joint is a three-thickness stack: 0.8 mm coated mild steel (floor pan), 1.4 mm DP590, and 1.8 mm HSLA rail flange.
930 words, about 5 min3Reading the OEM Weld Symbols on a Front Rail Section
A 2021 model's front rail is being replaced at a factory sectioning point. The OEM repair procedure shows two weld symbols on the rail-to-apron joint.
907 words, about 5 min4Sectioning a 1500 MPa Press-Hardened B-Pillar Reinforcement
A shop is repairing a 2020 sedan hit in the left B-pillar. The inner B-pillar reinforcement is 1500 MPa press-hardened (boron) steel.
891 words, about 4 min5Welding a Rear Rail Within 300 mm of a Live High-Voltage Pack
A 2023 battery-electric SUV needs its right rear rail replaced and the apron tie-down repaired. The high-voltage pack sits under the floor between the rails, at about 55% state of charge.
955 words, about 5 min