Not logged inAmerican Welding Society Forum
Forum AWS Website Help Search Login
Up Forum
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 Previous Next  
Search
Topic just whinin'... By 803056 Date 01-02-2009 21:28
Inspection is like fishing. The fisherman doesn't know what his catch will be until he pull in his lines. The inspector doesn't know what the day will bring until the phone rings.

I've been fortunate ever since I've been certified as a CWI, now it's been some twenty plus years. As for what the new year will bring, only the "Good Lord" knows. I won't know until December 31st, 2009. Until then, I do my job the best I can and try to stay on top of my game by reading and studying.

There's never a time when I think to my self, "I know it all", because I know that's far from the truth. I try to associate with people that are smarter than me and those that I hold in high esteem. I value them as friends and I know I can count on them to offer their help when I'm totally perplexed. I try to distance myself from those individuals that think they know more than they do, are closed to new ideas or ways of doing things, or are negative about life. There's always something new to learn everyday.

I've been a CWI since 1981 and a SCWI since 1997. I've attended many CWI courses since attaining my certifications, yet I hear something new or hear a reminder of something I've forgotten every time I sit in the class as a student. If you ever have the misfortune of attending a class with me, you'll know me as the one always asking questions. If you want to leave class early, you better hope you're not in my group, because I'm there to learn as much as I can from that instructor. When I'm teaching the class and you get fidgety, I'll tell you you're free to leave anytime you want because no one is chained to their seat. I try to give value for the money you pay to attend and I try to pass on any knowledge I have to offer.

It's a wonderful world and  I want to enjoy as much of it as I can.

How's the inspection game in the U.S.? Just wonderful is my reply. I don't know of anything I would rather do. If things slow a little, so be it. It will give me more time to prepare for my next big project.

Best regards - Al 
Topic CWI RENEWAL By GOOD POROSITY Date 01-02-2009 20:01
Hi everybody, I ve been around welding since  the age of 12 or 13 .( 53 now) Never liked it cause my dad forced me to help the workers in his machine shop in Central America, eventually I moved to the US, and worked my way up til I became a tube welder (mirror welder), traveled overseas with Foster Wheeler, for different welding jobs etc,( now I enjoy welding ) then I took my CWI test in 1998 and passed it, I didnt take that one week course I just did home study. Because of personal problems I couldnt send my application, monies etc in time  to AWS for my CWI renewal, now I am in the grease, according to AWS I have to take all the tests again. Question: Is there any other way I can just renew my cert without taking the tests all over again?.................Q2:  By not renewing on time does it make me less knowledgeable according to AWS? or my welding experience  or knowledge was automatically deleted from my memory and it went down the drain ? and make me a welding neophyte? I keep on working in the welding business in Central America and sometimes is kinda difficult for me to travel back to the US, but please help me with this input,  and by the way   that "GOOD POROSITY" name is just to get you guys attention and I was thinking about swiss cheese not weldments. Thanks     a lot for any answer                         
Topic What would you do? By 803056 Date 12-22-2008 22:41
Jim;

I am sure your company is meeting the intent of SNT-TC-1A and in all likelihood, they exceed the minimum recommendations of SNT-TC-1A.

Its unfortunate that there are contractors that use the latitude allowed by the recommended practice to their advantage to reduce the "quality" of training and experience. It is because of the actions of a few that I (and others) distrust companies that say they meet SNT-TC-1A. Without reading their written practice, there is no way to know what they have established as their minimum requirements for qualification and certification. Is eight hours of UT training sufficient for someone to be a Level II UT technician that inspects groove welds (no previous experience or training required). I've seen it. Is it reasonable to certify an individual that has received training for UT thickness measurements to test welds without any additional training, experience, or examinations. I've seen it done under the auspices of SNT-TC-1A. How about certifying an individual as a Level II penetrant inspector after four hours of on the job training and experience? I've seen it done and I've seen the "certs" submitted to my clients for review and approval. It those abuses and others that has driven some of us to insist on Q&C to CP-189 or ACCP.

That being said, there's nothing in CP-189 that prevents a company adding to the training requirements. The company is free to provide more extensive training in areas that some companies considered to be areas of specialization. CP-189 simply set the minimum requirements for training, experience, and examinations.

The problem with SNT-TC-1A is that the training, experience, examinations, etc. are recommendations, not requirements. Its not that the document is "bad", it is that too many companies and contractors are unabashed in their liberal interpretations of meeting the recommendations of SNT-TC-1A.

As for the CWI, to my knowledge no member of the Certification Committee or AWS has ever said that the CWI is an expert in all visual inspection. QC1, like the CP-189 or ACCP simply provides a baseline that has been widely accepted as an industry standard for the qualification and certification of visual welding inspectors. That doesn't mean there is no opportunity to expand upon that baseline knowledge.

I've long recognized that taking a single AWS open book examination on D1.1 or API 1104 doesn't automatically make me an expert in using other codes or standards. I've attended many seminars offered by AISC, ASME, and AWS to expand upon the knowledge I needed to pass the CWI and SCWI examinations.  I've taken endorsement examinations to demonstrate my working knowledge of ASME, API, and AWS welding codes and standards. Still, it doesn't mean that I'm an expert. It simply means that I've met some "standard" of knowledge that has been established as baseline requirement to ensure I have a working knowledge of those different standards/codes.

There is nothing in QC1, CP-189, or ACCP that prohibits a company from expanding upon the body of knowledge required to pass the examinations required under those programs. As a matter of fact, all those programs actually encourage inspectors certified under the auspices of their programs to broaden their knowledge by attending training courses offered by their respective organizations and others through their requirements for recertification. As an example; QC1 allows the CWI/SCWI to use endorsement examinations in lieu of taking the Part B examination over and over again. ASNT allows the Level III to use college courses in mathematics, science, engineering, etc. toward their recertification. The idea is to broaden the inspector's knowledge so they can better perform their jobs and improve their prospects for working in different industrial sectors.

Jim, this has been an interesting discussion. I've enjoyed every minute of it. As you can tell, I support "central certification". There is always the danger of it becoming too specialized which will simply cause all these programs to implode. I support the idea of a generalized central certification program and then I like the concept of endorsements to build upon the basic certification. I carry too many certifications as it is and I hate paying out more money every years to every organization that wants to birth their own "Golden-Goose". NFPA requires people that want to certify brazers for medical gas to attend their (NFPA) training course before you can test and certify brazers. API requires you to attend their training course before you can sit for their examinations to inspect oil tanks, the list goes on and on. I detest organizations that "require" you to attend their courses as a prerequisite to taking their certification examinations and I've resisted taking their examinations for years. ASNT and AWS offer the examinations to anyone that thinks they can pass them. You can self-study or take a class offered by your next door neighbor. I can buy into those programs. So much for my rant.

Merry Christmas and Happy New Year.

Best regards - Al
Topic Frustrated Boilermaker CWI By jon20013 Date 12-17-2008 04:56
Bryon, when I first began studying for the CWI, I was really lucky that my Welding Engineer at time was Chair of thew Q&C Committee.  I thought back at that time if I could only just understand a very small percentage of what he knew I'd be very happy... well, I managed to get there some years ago and he is now long dead but remains as one of my favorite mentors.  The CWI seems like a lot when you're studying it but I can assure you it's just a beginning.  One of the things that makes our trade so interesting is it provides a lifetime of learning opportunities.
Topic Frustrated Boilermaker CWI By BryonLewis Date 12-17-2008 04:21
I thought that I knew alot about welding unti I started studying for the CWI.  The more I study the more questions I have.  That's a good deal though, lifetime learning.  I think that if one thinks they know it all then they are bored with what they are doing and should move on.  I got tired of welding here in Kansas City.  I would much rather be learning to weld pipeline instead of assembly line.  That is why I am going for my CWI.  I need to get out and see the "world of welding".  The more I read the hungrier I get for more information. 
Topic Frustrated Boilermaker CWI By BryonLewis Date 12-16-2008 15:34
Although I am only studying to become a CWI, I have welded for 16 years.  If you weld and take pride in your work then you are a welding inspector.  If you can look at a weld that you just made with pride and you KNOW that it is a fine bead then you have accomplished something special. 

Inspecting, whether its your own weld or you are a CWI, is the last line of defense to stop a possible catastrophe.  A shi* weld can and has caused millions of dollars of damage and cost the lives of people.  No matter what as long as YOU are doing what is in your realm of responsiblity to "protect" people and the product, then I say, "fuc* everyone".  When I get my CWI, I will take pride in my work and if a flag needs raised I will raise it.  CWIs probably can't go a day without pis*ing on somebodies parade.

If a bridge collapses or a pipeline ruptures then people will get fu**ed up.  It will be an honor for me to inspect with the knowledge that I am making a difference.  I will be able to sit back with pride and know will 100% certainty that the bit** is safe to drive on.  Or this petro tank will stand for 75 years.  That is what I am looking forward to, (as well as the money).  When the bridge collapsed in MN a few years ago there were alot of people shi**ing their pants.  Engineers, foremen, insurance companies and definatly the families of the people that lost their lives as well as bridge inspectors.  Everyone wondered who was to blame.  What I do know for sure is that someone dropped the proverbial ball on that one.

You just got to make damn sure that your job is handled to the best of your ability, regardless of your involvement in a project.  But if there is any doubt, get another opinion.
Topic Frustrated Boilermaker CWI By jon20013 Date 12-16-2008 12:47
Daz, I am a NONE-Degreed Welding Engineer, with a Senior CWI and one who has GLADLY proven myself again and again and again.  I am also a Journey-Level Boilermaker/Welder and Pipefitter Inspector.  Over the years, I've been fortunate to gain MANY, MANY grey hairs and as such, I ask what is your problem???  Pay your dues brother, do it without complaining or move on. We all have.  For those who think you "know it all" or even a large part of it, guess again.  There is Soooooo much to our field even the best of the best could NEVER have a chance.

My advise, keep moving forward you've got LOADS of road to cover!!!!!

EDIT: By the way, one of my very best friends is Vice Chair of ASME IX and I've been studying it since 1984... ya think your good??? There's always someone better my friend.

Best regards, Jon
Topic CAWI vs CWI Question By Joseph P. Kane Date 12-12-2008 14:45
Pipewelder--Gerald  Donnie

This is an excellent synopsis.  Please do not delete the posts. 

You have made several good points here about the need for a an AWS CWI in the first place. (...may or may not require a 3rd party (AWS) to verify the knowledge of the inspectors. Understand that anyone can write a test, administer it, keep records of it, and have said requirements contained within their quality system. There is no need for AWS involvement however the AWS certificataion does seem to somewhat standardize the tests, question format, courses that are sold, etc.)

Under the D 1.1, a person could perform inspection who was company trained.  The training has to be documented.  A company could develop their own "in house" training and certification program.  It could use all or part of the AWS B 5.1 Qualification Document, and show that it followed a national standard.  There is another AWS document (I cannot remember the Title and Number of it right now,) that provides guidelines and recommendations for "In House" certification of inspectors.

I disagree with your statement;
"(I think it would be good for ALL people to understand that it is better to have NEVER taken the test than to achieve a score for a CAWI since that will probably place a burden upon your company requiring supervision by a CWI or in the case in which a CWI is not available, you cannot do anything.)"  How can that be valid?  People who think they are ready have to take the exam to be sure?!?!? Don't they????

It would probably be a burden, as you describe, but the person can always decline to become certified as a CAWI, or just send the card and wall certificate back and ask to have the certification removed.  The only reason to keep it might be erstwhile pride of ownership and accomplishment.  Remember, there will always be a record in the AWS Certification Department.  I am sure that in most cases, the original goal was to be a CWI.  If the applicant is so dispirited by the failure that he / she will not study and retake the exam again, how will he handle the pressures associated with honest inspection practice?  (OK- Maybe he will not be able to afford to re-take the exam.)

As for my term "Quibbling"; It appears to be "sticking in your Craw".  I really do not mean to offend you with it.  (If you ever went to a military academy or Officer Candidate School, or Flight School, there was an offense called Quibbling.  When I went to flight school in the Army, Quibbling got you two demerits, which meant you had to do four hours of close order marching drill to get rid of the demerits.  (All this marching had to be done in YOUR free time.)  Quibbling demerits were usually dropped on you as soon as you started to say "But Sir...., or  But I..., or What if..., Etc."  If you started to object to the first two demerits, you got FOUR more!)

I used the term to describe scenarios in your posts, where you posed the scenario that also had your own answer to fit your expectation of a way of getting around the CAWI restrictions in the same paragraph.

It was not "Useless" to pose the scenario and even to propose what I call quibbling scenarios.  I am sure a lot of people cannot accept that the restrictions on the CAWI are so total.   But think about this;  How can AWS protect itself and defend the CWI Program, if it allowed a person who did not pass the exam or otherwise meet all the requirements to practice welding inspection (Including all the attributes described in the AWS B5.1 Qualification document)?

Could the Certification Committee make exceptions?  Yes, probably.  However that would put a great burden on the Committee and require a lot of legal review and re-visit all kinds of scenarios and exceptions.  It is much easier and more fair to just leave it the way it is.  It would also clarify things by getting rid of the CAWI altogether.  But when that option is debated in Committee, there are still real reasons to keep the CAWI, -YESSSSSSS-, even reasons that do not involve money for the AWS.  (Remember AWS already got the money when the CAWI took the test, so money really, truly, is not the big reason the critics and skeptics think it is!)  

The biggest thing that the Committee did to help minimize the risk the CAWI certification poses to the program is to limit to a single term.  Those "Professional CAWIs" will fall by the wayside.  The numbers of CAWs has already decreased.  I agree with Carl Stacker that we should limit the CAWI Certification to those who pass at the CWI level but who otherwise do not meet all the education / experience requirements.  However even this proposal will not eliminate the supervision requirement.  The only true solution is to eliminate the CAWI altogether.  I would not get enough votes in either the Subcommittee or in the Main Committee to get that Idea passed.

By the way, one problem with this string, is that the replies are not in the order that the posts were made.  If I had seen your second post before I wrote my first response, the reply would have been different.

Joe Kane

Topic D1.1 Study Questions By whip Date 12-04-2008 04:10
Byron, Buy the entire CWI Preparatory Study guides and practice exams from AWS this will give you a pretty good idea of what you will be faced with but bare in mind the questions might not be the same, however they may be the same but asked differently.So a study of the code book is wise also there is a lot of good test takeing info here on the AWS web site. Also if you are not sure of something find out now and conquer it before test time. Reading this Forum and asking for help I'm sure with you trying to achieve your CWI know one will have a problem helping you.
                                                                                                                                   Whip
Topic D1.1 Study Questions By BryonLewis Date 12-03-2008 16:24
I just got my D1.1 Codebook.  I am studying for the CWI in February.  Is it better to study the Figures and Tables or the text?  I have read a good portion of text and they seem to point to a Table or Figure.  I am more visual and learn better that way.  I read the same parts 2 or 3 times before I go to the suggested table.  Then it makes sense.

And also from the practical side whilst working with the Code as a CWI which part is used more?  The reading gets pretty dry, especially since I haven't worked with codes before.  But the illustrations make it much more interesting.

Thanks
Topic double groove's By 803056 Date 12-02-2008 14:45
Hello John;

How's everything in the sunny south?

It sounds like these are "questions" for review or "self-study" questions for the CWI examination. Questions designed to make you think about what the code requires.

Your points are valid, but how or when does angular distortion and access come into play?

Best regards - Al
Topic Help on Part B of CWI exam By js55 Date 11-20-2008 13:51
Part B is the one that gets the great majority of those who have trouble the first time. Fortunately its the same Part B every time. Study it.
The other thing is, and this is just my opinion, I suspect that the majority of seminar instructors have the bulk of their professional experience in areas other than practical applications, even though they may be CWI's or SCWI's themselves and spent some time on the shop floor or in the field. And they will concentrate on their own strengths. Either that or its the standard curriculum. I'd be interested to know.
I have a problem with Part B being the most difficult portion of the test for most people and yet they do seem to spend the least time on it. My seminar spent far more time on metallurgy. If it isn't because of the above reasons I'd be curious as to why.
You spend a full day, or even a day and a half, or two days on Part B and watch the success rate go up.
Now some might argue this is teaching you to pass the test. I would counter by saying its a CWI test not a CWM (certified welding metallurgist) test.
I have always thought that the CWI program emphasizes things more suited to welding engineers. You do not need to understand transformation diagrams or arc physics to use a fillet gage. You don't need to understand transformation diagrams AT ALL. Though well rounded knowledge is of value. And I also believe that this modicum of information in these areas also contributes to some enthusiastic CWI's overstepping their authority from time to time thinking that they understand more than they actually do.
Topic Help on Part B of CWI exam By sinclair56 Date 11-19-2008 21:52
I just recently went though the 1 week course for my CWI and bombed the part B exam, we only went over that part for 1/2 of a day in class. I do know that I need to study the fake code book that I got, but is there any other advice that I can get, before I retake the test?? Thanks Jeremy
Topic Seminar study materials By 803056 Date 11-16-2008 19:37
AWS has started to use their revised texts for the CWI seminars.

The older versions of the materials are fine for self-study, but if you are taking the seminar, you will be provided with new materials.

Best regards - Al
Topic Seminar study materials By Cameron Callison Date 11-15-2008 19:38
I am preparing to do my seminar and exam for CWI. I am looking for any AWS CWI that might have seminar study materials left from their seminar time. I am willing to purchase materials to help me when the time comes for my seminar/exam. I am aiming for mid Jan to mid Feb 2009 for my seminar/exam.
Contact Cameron Callison: cameroncallison@yahoo.com or at 928-322-3855. Thanks, Cameron
Topic Hanging up my hood after 23 yrs. By Cameron Callison Date 11-15-2008 16:06
I've been in the welding industry for 23 yrs and have decided to retire my hood. I don't want to leave the trade so i have opted for inspections. My career has taken me from structural steel welding and fitting to combo welding and pipefitting to supervision at the industrial level. I have been tossing the inspector idea around for about six months now and have decided to make the move. I am researching right now and any advice for an old combo welder would be much appreciated. I would like to get my hands on the material used in the CWI seminars for some pre-study time. Any suggestions?
Topic CWI Seminars By K.Sexton26 Date 11-10-2008 04:19
Take the exam as soon as you can after the siminar. That way all the info is still fresh the reason i say that is they cram what would normally be three weeks of info and studying into a one week crash course which im sure you know. If you got the time to be off from work and the money i would suggest going to hobart or some were equal and taking a more intense CWI prep class, hobart has a topnotch prep course. Good luck and study hard every day learn how to navigate thru the code book and you'll be good to go 
Topic Metallurgy on CWI exam By BryonLewis Date 10-29-2008 17:16
Hello all,
I am currently studying for the CWI.  I would like to know if there are any online resources that you know of dealing with BASIC metallurgy.  I am reading about Ferritic, Austenitic etc.  And its all a bit confusing to me. 
Thanks
Topic some cwi questions By whiteyz Date 10-26-2008 21:06
Here is the place I will be attending  http://www.welderinstitute.com/cwi_enroll.html    Anyone have any experience with them?  I am a so so test taker.  Def. catch on very quick I think that was the thought of them sending me there.  But in no way do I feel I am ready for all this.  I did receive something that confirms my test date place and time.  Also confirms my enrollment in the class. If I can talk them into waiting I think that would be the best to allow me to study up on all this.  i have heard of people who have gone in not knowing jack and somehow passing it but I really dont want to make an ass out of myself.  Tomorrow would be the 2 week cut off period for getting a full refund so hopefully I can talk them into it.
Topic some cwi questions By swsweld Date 10-26-2008 18:56
whitezy,

"I have 2 weeks till the class.
Please help, what am I in for??? "

A migraine is probably in your future.
You can use the search feature and enter CWI test for lots of info on the test and studying for it.
Download the body of knowledge if you haven't done so yet. AWS website under Certification
Your welding experience will help you but in and of itself will not be enough to pass the test.
No study aids is not good this late, you should find something relevant and begin there.
Are you a good test taker? That will help. There is a lot of info to comprehend at the seminar. At night continue to study. TV and night life can wait.
There are seminars all year long, if you are not ready maybe it will be better to take it later. Sounds to me the employer isn't giving you enough time and support to prepare for it. It is not a cheap certification.

In my seminar many had the deer in headlights look.
Topic some cwi questions By whiteyz Date 10-26-2008 12:28
Hey I am a 24 year old Iron worker/ fitter in south east pa. My work just decided about a month ago to send me to the week long class in the second week in november for the CWI course. The exam following the day after. I have been asking for books to study with not really any help from them. The class schedule is 3 days general review 1 day d1.1 code clinic and 1 day hands on clinic. I am a certified welder not sure if that will help at all. What math skills should I brush up on?  I know I really need to study symbols as I am horrible in that area. What am I looking at, most things I have read so far people have studied for months and barley passed. I have 2 weeks till the class. Please help, what am I in for???
Topic Get back to work By vagabond Date 10-24-2008 15:32
What you should be doing is studying for your dadblamed CWI test. . . . of course once Obama gets elected with all the hand-out programs you won't have to work anyways.  I sure hopes when they starts spreadin all tha' wealth they gon' spread some ova' heah'.    BWAAAAHAAAAAA
Topic Hiring CWI & MT/UT Insp By jrw159 Date 10-24-2008 12:47
Gentlemen,
  There is indeed a shortage, but let me clarify. There is a shortage of well educated (field & study) seasoned, inspectors, that have and know how to use all necessary guages, and can acuratly interpret many, not just one, codes. I have seen several times, an inspector that has been certified through AWS for 3 years or better, tested to API 1104, that does not know what an internal high-low guage is, let alone how to correctly use it.

These inspectors make it hard for the freshly certified CWI's to get a start. It is hard enough to break out with wet ink. Many will pass you by for a seasoned CWI, depending on the job. New CWI's will most often be hired on jobs where they work with or for a seasoned CWI. This is not always the case, but most of the time this is what I have seen.

I totally agree that the CAWI should go away, I am an inspector, not a babysitter, and direct supervision is required for a CAWI to be effective. Now we can argue all day about what constitutes "direct supervision" but at the end of the day, whether we want to admit it to ourselves or not, we all know what that means.

Background and past experiance need to be tightened up as well. The way it is now, one could work for the required amount of time "in the industry" which could be empyting the trash and sweeping the floor in a welding shop, handing out consumables and changing out spools of wire for welders. This is indeed "in the industry". No where does it specify that one has ever had to actually weld.

jrw159
Topic cwi test study material By huey guillory Date 10-12-2008 20:45
CWI study material for sale. Every book used at the CWI seminar, including API 1104- In brand new condition. $250. Price for API 1104 alone is over $225. Email inquiries to   hueyg2003@yahoo.com
Topic cwi study materials By jrw159 Date 10-10-2008 23:50
Mastermetal,
  Do a search of this forum for your header, cwi study materials, and you will find the list of suggested study material as well as an abundance of valuable input.

Best of luck,
jrw159
Topic cwi study materials By mastermetal Date 10-10-2008 19:55
I am interested in getting my CWI.  I understand I need materials that I should read and study before hand. Is there a list somewhere of these materials. I looked around AWS sight but didnt see anything, might have missed it. Any help would be great.
Topic Inspecting your own welds? By welderbrent Date 10-05-2008 01:30
You cannot be refused the right to examine your own welds nor to write up a report upon their quality.  Every welder should examine his own work.  As a certified welder, shop owner, and CWI I can follow through the entire process. It is then up to the customer, and in many situations a government inspector, to decide how much weight they want to assign to your report of your work.  If you develope the reputation for honesty and consistency of quality it will mean more and more.

Before I took the exam, I found references in many places (code of ethics, quals and specs for inspectors, D1.1 and others of the study materials-none of which are in front of me right now) that if you were receiving pay from two conflicting sources on the same job (welding shop- inspection) you needed to make that position clear and if all the parties involved understood and saw no problem then it was 'ok'.

I prefer to have my people and myself checked by outside agencies to keep all things above reproach.  I still do much in house myself before anyone else sees it.  Why not?  Keep the quality up all the time.  It just shows everyone how honest, consistant, and professional you and your shop are in producing quality finished products.
Topic reasonable wage By johnnyh Date 10-01-2008 19:44
Personally I think the 510 test was harder.  This was probably because I have a welding/fitting background that prepared me for the CWI.  I would not have passed the 510 without the seminar.  The seminar really helped me figure out how to tab the codes so I could navigate them during the open book portion.  The closed book portion was just a matter of studying the material months in advance.  The best advice that they gave during the seminar was to eliminate the wrong answers before choosing the correct one.

One thing that makes the CWI hard is having to pass 3 portions instead of 2.  It is harder to make up for a few missed questions when there are 3 sections instead of 2.
Topic ICC Certification By BryonLewis Date 09-29-2008 22:44
I'm studying now for my CWI.  I have seen a few posts on ICC but I am still trying to figure it out.  I am kind of interested in API stuff. Tanks, pipelines and such. The structural and constructions stuff is pretty interesting too.  I have learned alot from this forum.  The more I learn the more questions that come up.  AWS, API, ICC, ASNT.  It is quite overwelming when you are not sure what you want to get into.  I am looking to maximize my "worth" to a new career but it can be confusing on which road to travel.  Its great to have this forum with all the guys that have traveled the roads already and enlighten us newbies. Thanks!
Topic LOOKING FOR CWI STUDY MATERIAL By raftergwelding Date 09-24-2008 02:53
hey yall most of you know me and most dont i am looking for cwi study material so i can get some kind of a heads up idea on what i'm up against so if anybody has any of these for  sale ,rent or loan i would really appreiate it i'm wanting to get this cert so i can go back to work doc says no more welding here is a list of what the aws website says i need to take the test yes i know you get them when you go to the seminar but would like to get a head start thanks for any and all help in advance a gentleman was kinf enuff to send me most of the books these are what is left that i need or so it says so on thew website anyways

Certification Manual for Welding Inspectors CM:2000
Welding Inspection Handbook WI: 2000

Guide for the Visual Examination of Welds B1.11: 2000
Safety in Welding, Cutting and Allied Processes Z49.1: 1999
Topic CWI exam study material By huey guillory Date 09-17-2008 17:43
CWI exam study material. w/wo API 1104 code book/study material for sale. Email me @ hueyg2003@yahoo.com, 337-277-4030
Topic CWI study group in Mckeesport, Pa. ? By Heli-Arc Date 09-07-2008 19:45
Hey Everyone

   Just wanted to see if anyone around Mckeesport, Pa (south of Pittsburgh) wanted to get together for a CWI study group. Just thought we could share experience and give each other a boot in the arse to pass this. Shoot me an email or post on the board if you are interested.
  
Tom
Topic CWI exam study group in Mckeesport, Pa ? By Heli-Arc Date 09-07-2008 19:42
Hey Everyone

   Just wanted to see if anyone around Mckeesport, Pa (south of Pittsburgh) wanted to get together for a CWI study group. Just thought we could share experience and give each other a boot in the arse to pass this. Shoot me an email or post on the board if you are interested.
  
Tom
Topic AWS CWI Used Study Materials urgently wanted By Andrew Brummer Date 09-02-2008 14:11
I am a certified welding instructor from South Africa and received my certification in 1998. I am led to believe that the South African certification is not recognised or accepted internationally. My aim is to obtain the AWS CWI certification and for this I desperately need the relevant study guides pertaining to CWI.

The nearest country to attend a seminar / exam is in Egypt which is North Africa (I am located in the most southern tip of Africa), thus the logistics and costs to attend this seminar needs to be justified by having already gained sufficient knowledge by pre -studying  all the relevant material.

If there is anybody who's used guides are gathering dust and who doesnt really need it anymore, please let me know.

My direct email address is chilibyt@absamail.co.za
Thanks
Andrew
Topic Practicing and preparing By flamin Date 08-12-2008 03:06
David-

I found that the Certification Manual for Welding Inspectors (CM:2000) was extremely helpful in my studying for the exam. It covers a broad range of topics and material that is directly related to D1.1 and has questions at the end of each chapter that are similar to those given for the closed book section of the CWI exam.

The WIT book is similar to the CM:2000 and is also a good book to study. There is a workbook that goes along with it with similar questions as those on the test. I chose the CM:2000 over the WIT because the WIT book is handed out at the seminar, and I didn't want two copies of the same book.

Also, AWS sells a book (CCRM:2006) titled Code Clinic, it's a study guide for D1.1 2006. It's directly related to the code book. I found it helpful in the sense that it has questions related directly towards D1.1 similar to the questions on the exam. I wish I had this prior to attending the seminar, because it would have given me a better understanding of what the test questions were like.

Jason

Jason
Topic SCWI study material By rhorton Date 08-08-2008 12:13
Thank you for your input. I am getting a feel for the fundamentals and the specific portions of the test and I can now focus on what it is I need to prepare for. I use B2.1, B4.0 and ASNT-TC-1A often in my current job. The fundamentals portion of the test is just a matter of review and studying the material like I did the first time I took the exam.

Why did they stop having the seminar for the SCWI? Did the original two instructors retire and they had no one to replace them?  
Topic SCWI study material By rhorton Date 08-07-2008 13:59
I am currently working in the Midwest as a Welding Engineer and I need to take my SCWI exam again. I had to let my previous SCWI expire do to a change in employment where I was not involved in the welding industry.

I am going to take the SCWI part A and part B open book test this fall and the format has changed since I took the exam in 1999. The original exam had a two hour fundamentals portion and a two hour open book to B2.1. There was also a seminar offered prior to the exam.
The new exam has a part A and a part B that is both open book with no seminar. They have a list of self-study material which consists of a number of AWS publications and a list of exam subject weights by percentage. There are no practice exams available and I am concerned about what to study for. Is there anyone that has taken the current SCWI exam that could shed some light on this subject?
Topic Uphill vs. Downhill welds By pipewelder_1999 Date 08-04-2008 21:11
I agree. It is odd that for a prequalified procedure, you can change the direction of travel, but for a welder that was tested, you cannot.

It almost seems that they just "forgot"  to address the performance qualification.

Of course if the codes were not as confusing, there would be 5 CWI's for every welder and they would be asking all the welders how to study up for the "Certified Welder" test and if there was a 40 hour course that could show them how to pass all the welding tests!
Topic CWI Vs Weld Engineer By Metarinka Date 07-22-2008 15:44
Js55 Basically nailed it. I'm graduating shortly with my bachelors in Welding engineering, there's only about 4-5 schools in the nation that have welding engineering programs. That being said the job market for a welding engineer is good right now.

Also out of school I would feel confident in my ability to pass the CWI test with studying.  My particular school has 2 classes on Non destructive testing so I already have experience and education operating UT Xray, Mag particle, etc and I've done quite a bit of work with the AWS D1.1 code book (as I type this my hand is resting on  D1.3 and D1.6 . I hope it doesn't sound like I'm bragging, but I'm glad my school gave me a taste of QC work if I should ever choose to go that path.

The careers are very different in terms of both job description, training, etc. Js55 explained it better than I could.

there are two types of welding engineers. The extremely rare few who actually get a degree in welding engineering; and Mechanical engineers, metallurgists or occasionally skilled welders who work their way up to the work without a relevant degree. ( I know an extrmely skilled welder going for his bachelors in buisness so he can become a welding manager/engineer).  Welding engineers generally tackle "engineering" issues ranging from metallurgy like picking the rod type and determining metal strength. To design like determining weld size or type of process to use, and finally management like overseeing welders, developing weld procedures, testing etc.  

CWI's and QC exist on the other side of the fabrication world ensuring that work was done to code and properly and testing welds, they are the check valve to make sure sub standard products don't go out the door. It requires a different set of skills than a WE and is generally field work.

My suggestion personally would be become a welding engineer, you can always pick up a CWI cert later I know a few WE who have a cert for freelance and consulting work, but often they remain in the realm of a engineer.

what's right for you might not be what my opinion is. Some people don't want to take 4 years of college and I understand that I was one of them.  Right now the job market is good so theres work in any welding related field. Hope that helps, I love the Welding engineering program and enjoyed my internship.
Topic CWI Study Material By flamin Date 07-17-2008 12:41
CM:2000 IMO is an excellent book to study. As is the WIT book. Both are very similar readings. I chose to study the CM:2000 for my CWI exam, becase the WIT book is given at the seminar (if you take the seminar).

Jason
Topic CWI Study Material By BryonLewis Date 07-17-2008 09:14
Any suggestions for CWI study material?
Topic what do you think By strat Date 07-04-2008 17:48
am i missing something,he failed one welder and then passed one welder but is not a CWI. Did i study my but off for many ,many months and pay xxxx.xx to become a CWI and if i so choosed just to test welders that i
spent all that time and effort and xxxx.xx for nothing.
Maybe i'm missing something
I hope anyway
Topic Military Weld Cert By arrowside Date 07-03-2008 11:59
I was actually studying for my CWI and working as a welder for a company that was just getting into the millitary contract thing at the same time. From what I saw, most of the documents referred back to AWS codes. It seemed to me that the Gov. was getting away from the old millitary standards.

      I think that they are probably doing this to make it easier on themselves. The guys that worked with the mill. codes are getting older and retiring on both ends.

    Always remember to call and ask for a variance BEFORE making a change!!!!

   This is one situation where it is easier to ask for permission rather than forgiveness!!!!!

    Also, make damn well sure that your ducks are in a row BEFORE the inspectors get there. This is VERY important, especially if you guys have your own inspection area. Every gauge, machine, caliper, mic. etc. must be calibrated and documented!
Topic I passed By 803056 Date 07-02-2008 19:20
I don't congratulate everyone that tells us they passed the CWI or National Board, it simply that I get lazy.

However I do want to offer my sincerest congratulations to all of you that have taken the initiative to study and pass these exams. No one that has taken them ever comes away from them saying "it was a snap." Quite the contrary, they are difficult and they aren't for those that only tackle them half heartedly.

Congratulations to all of you. Good show.

Best regards - Al
Topic Help with current questions on the D1.1 Exam!! By Pipeslayer Date 06-30-2008 19:31
Stephen is absolutely right. STUDY,SUDY,STUDY. Oh yeah keep away from the going out every night party clowns. A bunch of those guys failed their test. Not knocking those who have  failed it once but most guys taking the CWI exam work around fabs shops and construction sites. If you fail they will think that everything that you've said in the past about welding is wrong and  that you are a dumb a$$.
Topic Help with current questions on the D1.1 Exam!! By flamin Date 06-16-2008 16:41
waynebhayes -

I've been studying for the CWI exam, which I will be taking next week, and I've been using the certification Manual (CM2000) to study. It has alot of questions after each of 13 chapters , that should help you. It covers alot of ground.

Jason
Topic Help with current questions on the D1.1 Exam!! By Lawrence Date 06-16-2008 04:44
Wayne,

Nobody should give you answers for the CWI exam... Here or any other place.. ever.

If you want help to study you will find this forum a rich place with some of the top experts in the field.

If you use the search function on this forum and type in "CWI exam"  you will find hours of study material, links and valuable study and preparation stratigies.

If your just looking for questions and answers you better batten down your hatches and be ready for some rough seas.
Topic Help on CWI Testing By BryonLewis Date 06-09-2008 02:31
I have checked out the posts over the past couple of weeks and have learned a lot.  I am just wondering what kind of "weight" each of the exams carry in the job market.  Is one or the other more desired by employers.  I figure that since the bridge collapse in Minneapolis that there would be more need for D1.5, but I am not sure what to expect in the "real world".  I have welded aluminum concrete forms, worked as a trailer mechanic and currently building manholes for tank cars.  I never had the opportunity to build anything that needed to be inspected.  I have got burned out on welding and attained a Bachelors Degree in computer networking (which led to nothing) and now I am back to welding.  I decided that I am destined to stay in industry but I would like to move into CWI.  I have limited resources and am looking to take the exams that hold the most weight in the industry.  I see that regardless of which Part C you take you are qualified to inspect anything but I am looking to study and pass (hopefully) the one that will lead me to the most opportunities in the industry.
Topic Help on CWI Testing By BryonLewis Date 06-08-2008 15:40
Hello all,
I have decided to take the CWI testing, probably in Dallas Nov. 08.  The problem I am having is trying to decided which of the Part C tests to take.  I want to get studying but am unsure which test to take (D1.1, D1.5 or API 1104).  Since everything will be out of pocket I want to maximize for the test that will have the most potential in the industry. I live in the Kansas City Area and I know of no one that has taken these test before. Any help would be very appreciated.
Topic Instructors/Teachers Sharpen Your Axe By Lawrence Date 06-05-2008 17:19
Excellent advice Max.

I have a great Dean who bankrolls just about whatever I've asked.

This summer it's a grad level class in career and technical education, or CTE ("Vocational Education" is a term that has fallen out of favor with the educrats) that I'm hoping will help leverage more Carl Perkins dollars for the college and the high schools in our county. 

My teaching partner is secluded in a secret location studying up for next weeks CWI exam. He is also going to do the week long prep course with the incomparable Ed Bohnart.

Two weeks after my class ends my wife and I will be off to Uganda, where I'll be working and teaching for the month of July.  I suspect this will be a great education for us.

Powered by mwForum 2.29.2 © 1999-2013 Markus Wichitill