IIW IWI-S study plan

Map every NDT method (RT, UT, MT, PT, VT, ET) to the discontinuity types it detects and its typical applications in welded fabrication

Explain the physical principle, penetration behaviour and detection limits of each NDT method in writing without notes

Compare welding processes (SMAW, GMAW, GTAW, SAW, FCAW, resistance, laser) by heat input, deposition rate, positional capability and typical defects

Identify the equipment set-up variables (polarity, current density, shielding gas, wire feed) that shift a process into a defect-prone window

Classify common weld discontinuities (porosity, lack of fusion, undercut, slag, cracks) by origin and most suitable detection method

Interpret radiographs and ultrasonic indications conceptually: image quality indicators, sensitivity, dead zones, probe angle selection

Write acceptance/rejection decisions for five worked indication scenarios against a stated acceptance criterion

Draft inspection reports that record technique, standard reference, equipment, calibration status, results and disposition

Distinguish between inspection, testing and examination terminology as used in quality and reporting documents

Practise describing an indication objectively without prematurely naming the defect

Explain destructive tests (tensile, bend, impact, hardness, macro/micro) and what each proves about procedure qualification

Link test-piece failure modes back to welding parameter causes

Calculate and interpret hardness traverse results against common acceptance limits

Describe how welding procedure qualification test results feed into the written procedure

Produce a defect-cause-test-evidence chain for three failure cases

Classify steels by composition and structure and predict their weldability and cracking susceptibility

Explain the carbon equivalent concept and use it to justify preheat decisions

Describe hydrogen-assisted cracking mechanisms and the controls (preheat, low-hydrogen consumables, heat input, post-heat)

Explain how welding thermal cycles alter microstructure in the heat-affected zone of ferritic and stainless steels

Match filler metal selection to parent metal and service condition for five material pairs

Read a welded joint design and identify where stress concentration and restraint will drive defect risk

Apply heat input and interpass control calculations to a multi-run procedure

Describe distortion mechanisms and select corrective and preventive techniques for three joint configurations

Explain weld symbol interpretation and how design intent transfers to the fabrication drawing

Sequence a fabrication from fit-up to final inspection, naming the hold points

Distinguish quality control from quality assurance and place each activity in the fabrication workflow

Trace the document set: contract review, WPS, PQR, welder qualification, ITP, NCR, final dossier

Write a non-conformance report with root cause, containment and corrective action

Explain traceability of consumables and material certificates through the production chain

Describe how an inspection and test plan sets inspection points, methods and acceptance criteria

Identify welding fume, gas, radiation, noise and fire hazards and match each to a control measure

Explain ventilation and extraction principles and when respiratory protection is required

Interpret exposure limits conceptually and describe how monitoring supports compliance

Describe environmental controls for waste, consumable disposal and fume emission

Link safety controls into the inspection and test plan so safety checks become hold points

Run a full timed mock inspection from drawing review through report issue

Apply acceptance criteria consistently across NDT, destructive and visual evidence

Write a final inspection report with a clear, defensible disposition and traceable references

Review and close knowledge gaps identified in earlier weeks using a personal error log

Explain the inspector's role and limits of authority in the quality chain