My inspector took my code book again!!!!!!

In the meantime answer this question. Are you talking about a Procedure or Welder Qualification?

Mike

Table 4.5 pertains to PQRs, not to welder qualifications. I would guess that if you are using 7018 you are probably welding in a pre-qualified category and don't need a PQR. Of course there are exceptions so I would check out Section 3 to be sure.

For welder qualification, the rods sizes are not limited unless the WPS has restrictions. Table 4.11 lists essential variables for welders but it does not list the electrode diameter as being one of them. So I would say that as long as the test administrator has no problem with it, you could use 3/32" E7018 rods.

Chet Guilford

Table 4.5 determines what changes in essential variables require requalification of a WPS. It has nothing to do with what you are allowed to do during a qualification test.

Welder qualification requires a WPS. It can be one that is prequalified, or one that has been qualified. You can even qualify the WPS and the welder at the same time. It is possible to write a WPS that allows the welder as much latitude as the code allows. It is also possible to write one that leaves the welder very little latitude. In either case, you are limited to whatever the procedure allows. If the procedure calls out 1/8" 7018 that is what you have to use. If it calls out 1/8" for all passes except the cap, and 3/32" for the cap, then that is what you have to use. If it calls out 3/32" to 1/8" for all passes, then you have a choice.