WeldCertTest AWS D1.1 Plate Weld Qualification & Testing Services

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At WeldCertTest, we specialize in making the complex process of AWS D1.1 Structural Welding Code certification accessible and straightforward for businesses nationwide. Our mission is to provide a seamless, stress-free welder qualification process that guarantees your team's skills meet all required welding code compliance for structural steel projects.

Through our unique mail-in welding certification service, Weldcerttest has eliminated the logistical challenges of traditional weld testing. We act as the centralized coordinator, leveraging an extensive network of independent Certified Welding Inspectors (CWIs) and testing laboratories to ensure every step—from initial weld coupon submission to final WPQ documentation delivery—is handled with precision and expertise. This approach provides you with a fast turnaround and the peace of mind that your welder certifications are backed by industry-recognized standards.

The Science Behind WeldCertTest's Weld Testing Process

Our service isn't just about a checklist; it’s about verifying true welding proficiency and welding quality through rigorous weld testing requirements. Every welded test coupon sent to our designated receiving point undergoes a series of critical evaluations to confirm its integrity and your welder’s skill.

• Expert Visual Inspection: An AWS CWI first performs a meticulous visual inspection to check for surface imperfections, proper bead profile, and overall quality, as required by AWS D1.1 Clause 4.

• Destructive Testing: The coupon is then subject to destructive testing, primarily guided bend tests. This is a critical step that demonstrates the integrity of the weld. The metal is bent to reveal any internal flaws like lack of fusion, inclusions, or porosity that aren't visible on the surface.

• Non-Destructive Testing (NDE): When specified in a Welding Procedure Specification (WPS), we also coordinate with labs to perform advanced non-destructive testing (NDE), such as X-ray inspection (radiographic testing) or magnetic particle testing (MPT) weld, to further confirm the weld's quality without destroying the coupon.

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1G Plate Qualification: Flat Position

2G Plate Qualification: Horizontal Position

3G Plate Qualification: Vertical Position

4G Plate Qualification: Overhead Position

3G/4G All-Position Plate Qualification

• Purpose: The 2G test assesses a welder's skill in performing groove welds in the horizontal position. It's a crucial welding qualification for projects involving horizontal joints.

• Processes Qualified: A successful 2G test usually qualifies for flat and horizontal groove welds, as well as flat and horizontal fillet welds, and applies to multiple welding processes.

• Qualification Range: This test demonstrates an extended range of proficiency, covering two of the four primary positions for structural steel welding.

Learn more about 2G Plate Qualification

• Purpose: This critical test, typically performed with a vertical uphill progression, demonstrates proficiency for groove welds in the vertical position. It is one of the most common requirements for structural welding certification.

• Processes Qualified: Passing the 3G test demonstrates skill for flat, horizontal, and vertical groove welds, along with the corresponding fillet welds on plate.

• Qualification Range: This welder qualification is highly valued as it shows a welder's ability to work against gravity and maintain consistent welding quality.

Learn more about 3G Plate Qualification

• Purpose: This test covers groove welds in the overhead position, which is arguably the most challenging position due to gravity. Successful completion is a key part of achieving an all-position qualification.

• Processes Qualified: Passing the 4G test qualifies welders for flat, horizontal, and overhead groove welds, plus the corresponding fillet welds on plate.

• Qualification Range: This demonstrates a high level of skill and is essential for complex structural steel projects.

Learn more about 4G Plate Qualification

• Purpose: This combination test is the pinnacle of plate welding certification. It is performed on a single, thicker plate and, when successfully completed, qualifies a welder for groove and fillet welds in all positions (flat, horizontal, vertical, overhead).

• Why it's Valued: This is the ideal welder qualification for those requiring the broadest possible scope for diverse structural steel welding projects. It’s the ultimate proof of a welder's versatility and skill.

• Qualification Range: Achieving the 3G/4G qualification demonstrates proficiency across all four primary positions, providing the greatest flexibility for a welding firm's project needs.

Learn more about 3G/4G All-Position Plate Qualification

Explore Our Plate Qualification Test Positions

• Purpose: This foundational welding certification test verifies a welder's ability to perform groove welds in the flat position. It is the first step in demonstrating proficiency and is a common welding test for many projects.

• Processes Qualified: Passing the 1G test typically qualifies the welder for both flat groove welds and flat fillet welds using processes such as SMAW, GMAW, and FCAW.

• Qualification Range: Successfully completing this welder performance qualification test generally qualifies a welder for work on various plate thicknesses and joint configurations in the flat position.

• Learn more about 1G Plate Qualification