Read Why Certified Welding Inspectors are Essential to All Types of Building Projects

Welding, in many ways, is everywhere. Once the art of welding is understood, along with it comes a great appreciation for the workmanship and value of the profession. A Certified Welding Inspector (CWI) holds a key role in the welding industry. A CWI is a skilled professional responsible for examining welds, and determining their quality and strength, among other things. It is a highly important job, as welding is a vital part of infrastructure, building construction, vehicle manufacturing and much more. A CWI is not only responsible for inspecting welds, but is also involved throughout the entire process of welding from start to finish. 

Before Welding

Prior to starting the welding process, a CWI is involved in reviewing all set plans among all parties involved. A CWI ensures compliance with all qualifications, job codes, safety standards and regulations. Lastly, before any fabrication begins, the metal materials are inspected for compliance with welding procedure specifications (WPS) as well as project specifications and even, review heat requirements, joint fit-up, and environmental conditions. 

During Welding

During welding, the CWI is involved closely with the welding process, as he or she will be watching for adequate fusion, proper interpass temperatures, travel speed, cleaning and welding deposit size. Visual Inspection during the welding process is a major component of guaranteeing the weld quality and its strength. Inspection during the welding process will check to make sure the joint fit-up was correct, the proper material was used and the weld passes were cleaned. 

After Welding 

After welding, the Certified Welding Inspector will visually examine welds by utilizing electrical instruments and visual tools to inspect welds to ensure they are properly executed. The CWI will inspect for incorrect welding techniques or improper current settings, which may cause cracks, porosity, incomplete fusion, undercut, etc. If any of these are found during inspection, the welds would be considered defective, and would need to be repaired or completely scrapped and replaced. 

Tools

In order for a Certified Welding Inspector to successfully perform his or her job, the CWI will need to operate a set of tools. During inspection, a CWI may use a flashlight, measuring tape, magnifying glasses, a variety of gauges to determine any discontinuities of a weld.

Professional Skills

In addition, there is a vast set of professional skills that a CWI also needs in order to lead a successful career. A successful CWI is an effective communicator, works well with others and is able to deliver clear instructions. He or she is confident in their ability to make decisions and speak openly with multiple team members, and those involved with the project. 

AWS Certification

The American Welding Society (AWS) provides certifications to welding inspectors through an in depth six-hour three-part certification exam. In order to earn the CWI certification, individuals must score 72% or more on all three parts. Becoming a Certified Welding Inspector is in no way easy and requires continuous education. CWIs are held to a high standard and relied on to be good at what they do.

A good Certified Welding Inspector is someone who takes his or her work seriously. A CWI is someone who is highly experienced and knowledgeable. A CWI is responsible for inspecting the quality of welds, adhering to project plans and job code requirements and essentially ensuring the safety of the general public. CWIs are accountable for every single one of their inspections, and accountable to the employer, investors, and users of the finished project. Since the role of a CWI has such immense responsibilities, the profession requires extensive experience, education, training and dedication. A Certified Welding Inspector is an important role that requires trust. If you are searching for a trustworthy, honest and reliable business specializing in welding services, such as Non-Destructive Testing and Examination, Underground, Specialty Testing, Training services, Steel City NDT is the company to call.