if they are asking for the API 1104 multiple qualification test. the test consists of a 12" butt weld, which will be destructively tested, six coupons, 2 nick breaks, 2 root bends and 2 tensiles, but nick breaks can be subatituted for the tensiles. then a 12" inverted branch weld which is basically a field fabricated tee with the branch pointing down. you have to layout, cut, fit, and weld the branch all the way out. it can be layed out and cut in any position but must be welded with the branch pointing down. there are templates that can be bought and used but the test to be properly administered should be layed out by hand without the use of the templates. there are four nick break specimens taken from this weld, one at each crotch of the tee and one on each point of the tee. there are requirements that must be met for penetration, fusion, slag, and porosity on these straps (coupons) and on the butt weld straps as well. there are also visual requirements on both welds which are listed in the standard. when you successfully complete the welds, you are qualified unlimited with only a few restrictions, those being a change in welding processes, or combination of processes, change in direction of welding, downhill to uphill or vice versa, or a change in filler metal groups which is basically a change from E-XX10, or E-XX11 to a E-XX15, XX16, or XX18 electrode. The branch weld is an endurance test. but as I said the multiple qualification test qualifies you for nearly everything you would be expected to do, all diameters, wall thicknesses, joint designs, positions, etc.
you could do the single qualification test which is a butt weld in a specific range group which is listed in the API 1104. this limits the welder to a particular diameter and wall thickness and for multiple qualifications, mulitple welds have to be made. the single qualification butt weld test can be tested by radiography as well as destructively but should not be tested by both, that ain't fair. but if you are going to weld on compressor station piping all testing must be based on destructive testing, DOT requirements. but you asked about the multiple qualification weld test and i am off subject.
as i understand it the mulitple qualification test is a hold over from the days when the union pipeline welder got a days pay for each test weld he made. multiple tests in one day, multiple days pay. it was an economic thing. now the union welder gets paid for the weld(s) that are required for him to keep his job.
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