Xenogenesis, LLC performs laboratory welder certification tests to qualify welders in the 1G, 2G, 3G, 4G, 5G, and 6G positions. With our mail-in service we can qualify welders anywhere in the country in a quick efficient manner.

This comprehensive FAQ answers your questions about AWS D1.1 Structural Welding Code qualifications, welder performance qualification (WPQ), welder continuity, re-certification, and how WeldCertTest simplifies these processes through our efficient mail-in welding certification services.

Our goal is to provide clear, authoritative answers and ensure you find the information you need quickly and easily.

Frequently Asked Questions: AWS D1.1 Welder Qualification & Certification Services

Q. What's the difference between Welder Qualification and AWS Certified Welder?

A. Welder Qualification proves a welder can execute a specific Welding Procedure Specification (WPS) and produces a WPQ record per AWS D1.1. This is what employers need for compliance.

AWS Certified Welder is a personal credential card issued directly by the American Welding Society through their QC7 program at Accredited Test Facilities.

Xenogenesis Weld Cert Test provides WPQ records for your company's compliance needs, not AWS cards.

Q. Is Weld Cert Test an AWS Accredited Test Facility?

A. No. We're a facilitation service that connects you with independent Certified Welding Inspectors (CWIs) and third-party testing labs. This model lets us offer efficient nationwide mail-in services without being an ATF ourselves.

Q. Can you certify my welders with AWS cards?

A. We facilitate AWS D1.1 qualification and issue official WPQ records. Only the American Welding Society issues AWS Certified Welder cards. Our focus is getting you compliant WPQ documentation for structural steel projects. Learn more about our process.

Q. Why does my business need welder qualification?

A. Five critical reasons:

• Compliance - Required for AWS D1.1 structural steel projects

• Safety - Validates welders produce sound, defect-free welds

• Cost savings - Prevents expensive rework and failures

• Bidding power - Mandatory for most structural contracts

• Reputation - Shows commitment to quality and standards

Q. What is a Welding Procedure Specification (WPS)?

A. A WPS is the recipe for a specific weld. It details every parameter: joint design, welding process, filler metal, voltage, amperage, travel speed, and interpass temperature.

Your welder's WPQ record links them to a specific WPS, proving they can execute it correctly for production work.

Welder Qualification Basics

AWS D1.1 & Compliance

Q. What is AWS D1.1?

A. AWS D1.1 is the Structural Welding Code for Steel published by the American Welding Society. It's the standard for designing, fabricating, inspecting, and welding structural steel in North America - from buildings and bridges to heavy equipment and fabrication shops. If you're welding structural steel, you need D1.1 compliance.

Q. Who needs AWS D1.1 qualification?

A. Any welder doing production work on structural steel under AWS D1.1 scope needs qualification. This includes:

• Fabrication shop welders

• Structural steel erection crews

• Heavy construction welders

• Maintenance and repair welders on structural applications

Contact us to qualify your team.

Q. Does AWS D1.1 cover all welding types?

A. No. D1.1 specifically covers structural steel using SMAW, GMAW, FCAW, and GTAW processes on carbon and low-alloy steels.

It doesn't cover aluminum (that's AWS D1.2), stainless steel (AWS D1.6), pressure vessels (ASME codes), pipelines (API codes), or aerospace applications.

Welding Positions Explained (1G, 2G, 3G, 4G, 5G, 6G)

Q. What do 'G' and 'F' mean in welding positions?

A.

• G = Groove weld (joining metal with a prepared groove like V-bevel or U-bevel)

• F = Fillet weld (joining metal at an angle)

The number indicates position: 1=flat, 2=horizontal, 3=vertical, 4=overhead, 5=pipe horizontal-fixed, 6=pipe 45-degree.

Q. What does 1G Plate Qualification cover?

A. 1G qualifies welders for groove welds in flat position. It also covers flat fillet welds (1F) and horizontal fillet welds (2F) without separate testing. This is the foundational certification for shop welders who can position work flat. Get 1G qualified.

Q. What does 2G Plate Qualification cover?

A. 2G qualifies for horizontal groove welds and covers flat (1G) and horizontal (2G) groove welds, plus flat (1F) and horizontal (2F) fillet welds. It introduces gravity challenges and proves the welder can control molten metal in horizontal orientation. Learn about 2G testing.

Q. What does 3G Plate Qualification cover?

A. 3G is vertical position welding, typically done vertical-uphill. Passing 3G qualifies welders for flat (1G), horizontal (2G), and vertical (3G) groove welds, plus all corresponding fillet welds (1F, 2F, 3F). This demonstrates advanced puddle control against gravity. Get 3G qualified.

Q. What does 4G Plate Qualification cover?

A. 4G is overhead welding - the most challenging position. Successfully passing 4G typically grants all-position qualification for groove welds (1G, 2G, 3G, 4G) and all fillet welds (1F, 2F, 3F, 4F). It's the broadest plate qualification available. Learn about 4G testing.

Q. What does 3G/4G All-Position Qualification cover?

A. The 3G/4G combined test is the ultimate plate certification. One test on a thicker plate proves mastery of both vertical and overhead welding. Passing qualifies welders for all groove positions (1G, 2G, 3G, 4G) and all fillet positions (1F, 2F, 3F, 4F) with often unlimited thickness for fillets. Get 3G/4G qualified.

Q. What is 5G pipe welding qualification?

A. 5G is horizontal-fixed pipe welding where the pipe is locked in horizontal position and cannot rotate. The welder must work around the pipe, transitioning between overhead, vertical, and horizontal positions. It's rigorous and often required for pipeline and pressure vessel work. Learn about 5G testing.

Q. What is 6G pipe welding qualification?

A. 6G is the all-encompassing pipe test. The pipe is fixed at 45 degrees from both horizontal and vertical axes. Passing 6G typically qualifies welders for all other pipe positions (1G through 5G) because it requires the highest level of skill and puddle control in the most complex orientation. Get 6G qualified.

Q. Does a plate qualification work for pipe welding?

A. No. Plate qualifications (1G, 2G, 3G, 4G) are separate from pipe qualifications (5G, 6G). Pipe welding introduces rotational and circumferential challenges not present in plate work. You need separate pipe testing for pipe work under AWS D1.1 or ASME codes.

Welding Processes & Materials

Q. Which welding processes can be qualified under AWS D1.1?

A. AWS D1.1 covers the main structural steel processes:

• SMAW (Stick welding)

• GMAW (MIG welding with various transfer modes)

• FCAW-G (Gas-shielded flux-cored)

• FCAW-S (Self-shielded flux-cored)

• GTAW (TIG welding)

The process you test with is the process you're qualified for.

Q. If I qualify with stick welding, am I qualified for MIG?

A. No. Each welding process requires its own qualification test. SMAW qualification doesn't cover GMAW or FCAW. Each process has unique characteristics and control requirements that must be demonstrated separately.

Q. What thickness range does my test plate qualify me for?

A. It depends on your test plate thickness:

• 3/8" test plate - Qualifies 1/8" to 3/4" for groove welds

• 1" or thicker test plate - Qualifies 1/8" to unlimited thickness for groove welds

• Fillet welds - Groove weld qualification typically grants unlimited thickness for fillets

Q. Does qualification on one steel type cover all steel?

A. AWS D1.1 covers carbon and low-alloy steels. Qualification on one steel group (like A36) typically qualifies for other steels in that group or lower strength groups per the code.

Different materials like stainless steel, aluminum, or high-strength alloys require separate qualifications under different codes (AWS D1.6 for stainless, AWS D1.2 for aluminum).

We also test for AWS D1.2 (Aluminum) and AWS D1.6 (Stainless Steel) - contact us for details.

The Testing Process

Q. What is a weld test coupon?

A. A test coupon is the metal piece(s) a welder welds according to your WPS for qualification testing. After welding, it's sent to our testing labs for visual inspection and mechanical testing (bend tests) to verify weld quality and soundness. See our shipping instructions.

Q. What tests are performed on my weld coupon?

A. Three main evaluation types:

Visual Inspection - AWS CWI checks for surface defects: undercut, porosity, cracks, excessive reinforcement, insufficient fill.

Destructive Testing - Bend tests (face bends, root bends, side bends) physically bend the weld to reveal internal defects and assess ductility.

Non-Destructive Testing - X-ray (RT) or ultrasonic (UT) inspection may be performed based on WPS requirements to check internal soundness without damaging the weld.

Q. What happens if a welder fails the test?

A. AWS D1.1 allows immediate retesting. Typically, welders get two retests within 30 days without additional training, unless the failure showed gross incompetence.

If retesting is needed, the entire qualification process must be completed again. We facilitate requalification testing as needed. Contact us about retesting.

Q. How long does the qualification process take?

A. Turnaround varies based on test complexity, volume, and shipping times. Our streamlined mail-in service and established CWI/lab network are designed for efficiency. We offer expedited processing for urgent recertification to prevent work stoppages. See our estimated timeframes.

Q. How much does weld certification testing cost?

A. Cost depends on the test type (1G, 3G, 6G), thickness, process, and testing requirements (bend tests, X-ray, etc.). Contact us for an exact quote based on your specific qualification needs. We provide transparent pricing with no hidden fees. Request a quote.

Welder Continuity & Re-certification

Q. How long is a WPQ valid?

A. A WPQ has no expiration date - it's valid indefinitely as long as continuity requirements are met. The welder must perform welding with the qualified process/position at least once every six months, and you must document this activity per AWS D1.1 Clause 4.25.

Q. What happens if a welder doesn't weld for 6 months?

A. The qualification lapses. The WPQ becomes invalid for production work, and the welder must pass a new qualification test before resuming welding under that qualification. This is why tracking continuity is critical.

Q. What is the employer's responsibility for continuity?

A. You must document that each qualified welder has performed production welding using their qualified processes within every six-month period. These records prove ongoing qualification for AWS D1.1 compliance and audits. Poor record-keeping can shut down projects.

Q. Can a lapsed qualification be reinstated without retesting?

A. No. If qualification has lapsed beyond six months, full requalification testing is required. AWS D1.1 has no provisions for simple reinstatement. The welder must demonstrate current proficiency through new testing. Schedule recertification.

Q. What if WPQ records are lost?

A. Lost WPQ records create major compliance issues. We assist with replacing or reissuing records by working with CWIs and labs to verify prior qualification or facilitate new recertification. Always maintain secure digital and physical copies of all welding documentation.

Q. Can a welder's qualification be revoked?

A. Yes. AWS D1.1 Clause 4.25 allows CWIs or employers to revoke qualification if there's reason to question a welder's ability. The welder must then undergo requalification testing to demonstrate current proficiency and regain their valid WPQ.

Weld Cert Test Services

Q. How does your mail-in service work?

A. Simple four-step process:

1. Contact us - We provide test plate specs and shipping instructions

2. Welder performs test - Your welder completes the test weld per your WPS

3. Mail the coupon - Ship the welded test plate to our designated facility

4. We handle everything - CWI visual inspection, lab bend testing, WPQ generation and delivery

Start the process.

Q. Why use Weld Cert Test instead of local testing?

A. Seven key advantages:

• National mail-in convenience - No travel, no logistics hassles

• Fast turnaround - Established network ensures quick processing

• Guaranteed compliance - Strict AWS D1.1 adherence for valid WPQ records

• Cost-effective - Lower costs than in-person testing and travel

• Expert network - Access to experienced AWS CWIs and reputable labs

• Workforce flexibility - Keep welders qualified for diverse projects

• Documentation support - Proper WPQ records ready for audits

Q. What's included in your service?

A. Complete qualification support:

• Detailed test plate preparation guidance

• Coordination of coupon shipment and receipt

• Visual inspection by independent AWS CWI

• Destructive testing (bend tests) at our labs

• Non-destructive examination (NDE) if required by WPS

• Official WPQ record generation

• Supporting lab test report delivery

• Ongoing continuity and recertification support

Q. Do you provide welder training?

A. No. We specialize in qualification and recertification testing only. Our services are for welders who've already developed the necessary skills and are ready to demonstrate proficiency through formal testing. We test - we don't train.

Q. Can you help prepare for AWS D1.1 audits?

A. While we don't perform full audit preparation, our core service directly supports audit readiness. We ensure your welders hold valid, compliant WPQ records through proper continuity and recertification, providing accurate documentation and lab reports needed to satisfy AWS D1.1 compliance requirements during audits.

Q. Where is your testing facility located?

A. Our primary lab partner, Xenogenesis LLC, is located in Atlanta, Georgia. However, through our network of independent AWS Certified Welding Inspectors and testing laboratories, we serve businesses nationwide via our mail-in service. Location doesn't limit access to our services.

Technical & Safety Questions

Q. What's the difference between CJP and PJP groove welds?

A.

• Complete Joint Penetration (CJP) - Fully fuses the entire joint thickness, providing maximum strength for critical structural connections

• Partial Joint Penetration (PJP) - Intentionally welded to a specific depth less than full thickness, used when less strength is required

Qualification for CJP typically covers PJP welds of equivalent size.

Q. What happens if welding documentation is incomplete during a project?

A. Serious consequences:

• Project delays or shutdowns

• Mandatory rework of completed welds

• Financial penalties and contract violations

• Rejection of welded components

• Reputational damage

Maintaining accurate, current WPQ records is essential for avoiding these costly complications.

Q. What safety precautions are required during qualification testing?

A. Welders must use proper PPE:

• Welding helmet with appropriate shade lens

• Flame-resistant clothing

• Welding gloves and safety boots

• Proper ventilation to avoid fume inhalation

For overhead (4G) or vertical (3G) welding, additional precautions manage falling molten metal and spatter safely.

Q. Why is consistent heat input important?

A. Heat control is everything:

• Too little heat - Causes lack of fusion or insufficient penetration

• Too much heat - Creates burn-through, excessive reinforcement, undercut, or weakens the weld metallurgically

Proper heat input control, especially in challenging positions like 3G and 4G, is a key indicator of a qualified welder's skill and ensures weld soundness.

Ready to Get Your Welders Qualified?

Xenogenesis Weld Cert Test streamlines AWS D1.1 qualification nationwide. Whether you need new qualifications, recertification, or continuity support, our mail-in service delivers compliant WPQ records fast.

Call (404) 860-1288 or email us to get started.

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