In Performance qualification section of Qualification chapter in AWS D1.1, only detail mentioned for welding operator qualification is "Qualification of a welding operator on plate in the 1 G (flat), or 2G (horizontal) position shall qualify the welding operator for welding pipe or tubing over 24 in. (600 mm) in diameter or plate for the position qualified, except that qualification in the 1 G position also qualifies for fillet welding in the 1 F and 2F positions, and qualification in the 2G position also qualifies for groove welding in the 1G position and for fillet welding in the 1 F and 2F positions." and nothing more for welding operator has been mentioned.
1) So, as per AWS D1.1, is machine or automatic welding limited to only 1G, 2G, 1F an 2F positions only???
2) May one qualify a welding operator for 3G ( vertical) position as per AWS D1.1? If yes, then in which position welding operator shall weld test coupon to be qualified welding operator in 3G ( vertical ) position?
Actually, I have to use AWS D1.1 as per contract, I plan to weld a long seam using machine FCAW welding process in 3G ( vertical ) position. May I qualify a welding operator for 3G position to weld by FCAW machine / automatic welding??? or, should I drop this idea to use machine FCAW welding and go for semi-automatic FCAw?
Experts please respond.
The original post stated that D1.1 only addressed qualification of the operator in the flat or horizontal positions. My response was that if the WPS is qualified for vertical or overhead, the welders can be qualified in those positions.
I believe the individual posting the inquiry misinterpreted D1.1 and tables 4.10 and 4.12. I don't see the limitations mentioned by the original post.
Al