Wednesday 5 February 2014

Welding Codes and Standards

Many aspects of the design and fabrication of welded components are governed by documents known as codes and standards.  Other names used for such documents include guides, recommended practices, regulations, rules, and specifications.  These documents are often specified by an end user/purchaser as a contractual agreement in order to control the characteristics of the welded fabrication that may affect its service requirements.  They are also used by the manufacturer to assist in the development and implementation of their welding quality system.  Many end users of welded components have developed and issued specifications that have been compiled by them to address their specific requirements.  Such specifications may be limited in application and related only to that customer’s situation and requirements.  National interest in areas such as public safety and reliability has promoted the development of welding codes and standards that command broader recognition both on a national and industry-specific basis.  Numerous committees have been developed over the years within national engineering and technical societies that continue to evaluate the needs of industry and develop new welding codes and standards.  Such committees are comprised of members who are technical experts and represent all interested parties such as manufacturers, end users, inspection authorities, and government agencies.  The membership of these committees is balanced in order to prevent any one interest group from controlling the committee. On completion of a new or revised document by the specific committee, it is usually then reviewed and approved by a review committee, and if accepted, then published in the name of the applicable engineering society.
Documents that have significant influence upon public health and safety are sometimes adopted by legislative bodies or by federal regulating agencies.  In those jurisdictions, such documents become law and are often referred to as Codes or Regulations. 
The welding inspector should be aware of what codes or standards are applicable within their jurisdiction, understand the requirements of the relevant documents and perform their inspection accordingly.
Read more: http://www.esabna.com/us/en/education/knowledge/weldinginspection/What-you-should-know-about-welding-codes-and-standards.cfm

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