This may be jumping the gun here, but I just started on another (3rd so far) code: ASME IX.
Reading the contents of the PQR where it says, "It is not intended that the full range or the extreme of a given range of variables to be used in production be used during qualification unless required due to a specific essential or, when required, supplementary essential variable".
So then I flip to QW-253 for variables for SMAW and find that current and polarity are not an essential variable. WOW. It's like stepping into the Wild Wild West.
So....do a PQR for SMAW at 95 amps and write the WPS for 60 to 120, just because that's what we need for production?
On page 19, so far.
Remember, it is possible and often the case that you can write a WPS that meets all the requirements of ASME Section IX that is entirely impossible to use and still be "code compliant."
ASME does not tell the manufacturer "how to do anything." It assumes the individual tasked with the responsibility of writing the WPS is technically competent. As such, Section lists no limitations for the welding parameters as found in AWS structural welding codes.
There is no requirement in ASME that an individual has to be present to witness the welding of the test coupon or to record the welding parameters, i.e., voltage, wire feed speed, travel speed, etc., on the PQR. he exceptin is when qualifying the WPS for notch toughness, in which case heat input is a essential variable and must be recorded on the PQR.
What filler metal should you use with such and such base metal, it ain't in Section IX.
Is notch toughness required? Beats me, it isn't addressed by Section IX. You need to go to the construction code to find out. That means, you need to know and review which construction code will be used to design and fabricate the component.
If you are venturing into the wonderful world of ASME you better know what you are doing, "cus you ain't getting no help from Section IX."
Best regards - Al
A couple of other things. There is no requirement in D1.1 for volumetric examination except for tranverse cyclic stresses (one paragraph), there is in ASME. There are no requirements for MT/PT in D1.1, there is in ASME. There are no requirements for CVN's in D1.1.There is in ASME. Even though Article 6 is loaded with info on how to do it. It doesn't make you do it. In fact, the one examination it does make you do (VT) is the one they talk about the least in Article 6.
Its all about different ways of approaching things.
And as for filler metals, even though D1.1 has a moderately extensive table of materials they are all just variations of carbon steel for the most part. Whereas ASME deals with perhaps 1000's and 1000's of alloys. Many alloys are of a nature that fillers have not even be developed for them. Anybody ever seen 9% Ni filler?
Covering filler metals in ASME as AWS does would require a volume the size of the library of congress. Yup, I wanna have to pay for that one.
And API is only easier if you are using it as a pipeline standard. Try adapting it to a shop environment and following it to the letter. Its expensive, and a nightmare.
One more comment on the varying systems. For the most part, they both work.
We do not see buildings just collapsing in on people if the D1 codes are followed. Barring a catastrophic earthquake.
And it is extremely rare for stuff to just blow up or failing if the ASME codes are followed. Barring tsunami's or some such event.
Both systems work. And work well. And both governing committee members take very seriously the safety of people.
But they both rely upon the professionalism and honesty of those using the codes. Otherwise, it doesn't matter what rules you put in place.
By 803056 
Date 07-12-2013 21:30
Edited 07-15-2013 11:05
Amen to that. It is usually a confluence of minor problems or oversights that cause failures to occur.
The trouble begins when someone that doesn't know is to proud to ask.
All the codes make the assumption that the individual responsible for the design understands how to analyze the problem, calculate loads, and how to determine the size of members, components, etc. There is also an assumption that the individual that is determining the welding requirements understand welding and the technology associated with it. No code is written with the backyard mechanic or the damn fool in mind.
Let's face it, it isn't any fun if you don't stir the mud up once in a while.
Best regards - Al
Yes...he did forget!...LMBO 
