Part I: General Questions on the WeldCanada.com's Online Welding Software Services:

1.0 How the software works? Do I need to download the software on my computer? Can I save my document both online and on my computer? Can I access my account from different computer?

1.1 What makes the WeldCanada.com unique and superior welding software?

1.2 What are the benefits of joining the WeldCanada.com? How to join?

1.3 How to avoid performing costly qualification test (PQR), when permited by a code, by using a proper prequalified Welding Procedure Data Sheet (WPDS)?

1.4 Who should sign and approve my weld documents, based on requirements of the welding code?

1.5 What are the features of WeldCanada.com's Welding Community? How to collaborate and business network with all users of WeldCanada.com?

1.6 Does our company need to purchase more than one account? If we decide to have multiple accounts, what would be the cost?

1.7 What happen when my plan (1-year or 2-year) is near to expire? How to renew my plan? Do you have recurring payment plan (automatic renewal) in place? Do you inform me, in advance, if I want to renew my plan? What is the WeldCanada.com policy for refund and termination of service?

1.8 After that I buy a one-year plan subscription, what would happen to my document that saved online on WeldCanada.com site, at the end of the year?

1.9 Is online payment on the website secure? Is my personal information kept private?

1.10 Is the software compatible with any other software?

1.11 Can I store my WPDS, WPS or PQR forms and data internal to our site, not on WeldCanada.com, as it is considered sensitive data?

Part II: Questions on the WeldCanada.com Software Features for Weld Document (WPDS, WPS, PQR, WPQ, WPQR, SWPS, Welders Management Report):

2.1 How the software works? Do I need to download the software on my computer? Can I save my document both online and on my computer? Can I access my account from different computer?

2.2 Is there any welding procedure for aluminum GMAW (MIG) process in your database?

2.3 Does the software provide any suggested weld data, for welding steels, stainless steels and aluminum, for several welding processes [SMAW (Stick), FCAW, MCAW, GMAW (MIG), GTAW (TIG), SAW]?

2.4 What are the main features of the software? Does the software prevent us from putting illogical or invalid information in any area that would not meet the specification being addressed?

2.5 Does the software guide us for selection of shielding gas? Does the software have the ability to choose between short-circuiting mode of transfer and spray mode of transfer for GMAW (MIG) welding process?

2.6 Does the software offer access to any code? How to order welding code?

2.7 Does the software provide Standard WPS (SWPS) for the ASME code?

2.8 Do you recommend us for choosing proper electrode or material that works for our project?

2.9 I need a procedure to weld 304 stainless steel to mild steel which conforms to the AWS requirements. Can your service help? We are a machine shop, which also does welding. We are certified per AWS for carbon steel but don't have the technical resources to develop more complex procedures.

2.10 I am an HVAC and Electrical Engineer and know nothing about welding. Will your software guide me to which standard to follow, type of joint, and welding process for a given pipe size and pressure?

2.11 We do not have a structural engineer in house. We outsource that service. I am the senior engineer and my degree is in Electrical Engineering. While I do know the difference between a fillet and a butt joint, that is about the extent of my welding knowledge. Would I be able to complete an online WPDS with a limited understanding of welding? Does your software "ask questions" or will I need to know what I am doing already?

2.12 I need a weld procedure for welding ASTM A234 WP22 to A312 304L. I'm not sure what welding process to use for this weld. Can you provide some instruction in this area?

2.13 We do in house welding with ASTM A36, A572, A514 and SAE 4130. I was curious if your database has prequalified weld procedures for these types of materials? Do you have Prequalified WPS for 4130 material?

Part III: Technical Questions about the WeldCanada.com's 16,000 Prequalified WPDS's:

3.0 Are the prequalified WPDS, same as a prequalified welding procedure?

3.1 What is the definition of Weld Type (Fillet weld, Partial groove weld, Complete groove weld), WPDS, WPS, PQR, CWB Certified Company Division, etc.?

3.2 What is a prequalified weld joint or prequalified Welding Procedure Data Sheet (WPDS), and what are the benefits of using prequalified WPDS's? What is a Non-prequalified weld joint?

3.3 What welding codes allow the use of prequalified weld joints and prequalified WPDS's?

3.4 Are you keep the WeldCanada.com's 16,000 prequalified Welding Procedure Data Sheets (WPDS's) up-to-date with the code updates?

3.5 What types of weld process are used in the WeldCanada.com's 16,000 prequalified WPDS's?

3.6 Does the software provide prequalified welding procedure data sheet for GTAW (TIG) process?

3.7 What are the base materials groups used in the WeldCanada.com's 16,000 prequalified WPDS's?

3.8 What are the generic gas mixtures used in the WeldCanada.com's 16,000 prequalified WPDS's for FCAW, MCAW and GMAW (MIG) process?

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Part I: General Questions on the WeldCanada.com's Online Welding Software Services:

1.0 How the software works? Do I need to download the software on my computer? Can I save my document both online and on my computer? Can I access my account from different computer?

WeldCanada.com software is online platform. So, you don't need to download the software on your computer and you can access your account from any computer or anywhere online.

It works the same way you check your e-mail online! You can log in to your WeldCanada.com software with your UserID and Password, which you choose during online registration.

The great thing about our software is that you can manage all your welding documents online. The software supports all major CSA and AWS codes (structural steel codes for steels, stainless or aluminum), as well as ASME codes (pressure vessel, piping and boiler).

In addition to save a document on your computer, you can save it online. You can save your documents in PDF format, at your end, as well as save it online on WeldCanada.com for future use or modifications. Once you need a copy of your document, just log in to your account from any computer online and save time.

Besides the software, there are also over 16,000 prequalified CSA and AWS welding procedures for welding steels and stainless steels in our database for SMAW (stick), SAW, FCAW, MCAW and GMAW (MIG) processes. Other features that make our service unique are providing users with sample specifications, suggested weld data, shielding gas selection guide, expert presentations, articles, educational and technical information, welding community and much more!

We are proud that, since 2005, hundreds of companies, including NASA, Lockheed Martin, Fortune 500 companies, certified companies with the CWB Group, and manufacturers worldwide are using the software.

It is easy to manage all of your weld documents, by using the WeldCanada.com software, anywhere at anytime.

Please try the WeldCanada.com Demo to see how simple online software work for you.

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1.1 What makes the WeldCanada.com unique and superior welding software?

-You are only required to have minimal computer knowledge to use this service.

-No need to download software on your computer, log in and manage your weld document.

-WeldCanada.com online software supports more codes than any software company.

-While other welding software doesn't automatically prepare a single welding procedure, WeldCanada.com offers over 16,000 procedures for the CSA and AWS codes, as our special bonus for you, plus a superior software for the CSA Standards, the AWS and ASME codes.

-To make a better decision, there are instant code's rules for each essential variables, Guides and Built-in Tables in each forms (WPDS, WPS, PQR, WPQ, WPQR). The software also provides guides to choose right shielding gases, suggested welding parameters, and educational experts' welding presentations.

-The welding software provides no restriction for the users, plus there is no company license fee or maintenance fee for the services. Our fee includes software upgrades, code updates, and is good for unlimited intra company use, available anywhere online.

-Superior welding software for the CSA and AWS structural steels welding codes (steels, stainless steels, aluminum, bridge, and more), as well as the ASME codes (pressure vessel, piping, boiler, power piping, process piping, and more).

-By joining WeldCanada.com, you can also create your own Webpage, WeldCanada.com/UserID, and start business networking, and collaborate with users in your welding community.

-Option to save your weld documents online (WPDS, WPS, PQR, WPQ, WPQR, Welder Management Report), plus you can always save it on your computer in PDF format.

-The software and database designed by the code experts, and are continuously updated with latest edition of the welding codes.

-Users also have access to free online resources, plus Highlights of Codes, Learn First!, and You Asked We Answered WebPages, samples Welding Procedure Specifications (CSA version of WPS), and Experts' Presentations.

-WeldCanada.com committed to provide users with the continued value-added services.

-The service fee is very affordable.

Please try WeldCanada.com Demo to see how simple online software work for you.

Join your welding community, create your online Webpage profile, and start business networking with Fortune 500 companies, consultant engineers, inspectors, welding experts and fabricators, worldwide. To join, please click here

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1.2 What are the benefits of joining the WeldCanada.com? How to join?

WeldCanada.com committed to provide users with the continued value-added services.

In simple words, we proud to say about this welding service that:

[]  It works.

[]  It's fast.

[]  It's available online 24/7

[]  It's simple.

[]  It's professional.

[]  It's unique.

[]  It's for everyone.

[]  It's affordable.

[]  It has been prepared by the code experts.

To register online, please click here

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1.3 How to avoid performing costly qualification test (PQR), when permited by a code, by using a proper prequalified Welding Procedure Data Sheet (WPDS)?

The following are the most common reasons that welding procedure data sheets (WPDS) or welding procedure specifications (WPS) were not getting approval or have been called up for costly qualification testing, PQR(s):

-WPDS and WPS doesn't comply with the minimum requirements of applicable code

-Lack of knowledge on how to prepare and submit WPDS and WPS properly, in the first place. Please note that under requirements of the CSA welding standards, a Welding Procedure Specification (WPS) for each material groups and welding process must also be associated with the WPDS.

-Not recommending a right shielding gas considering the base materials, thicknesses, weld process and mode of metal transfer (short circuit, spray, globular, pulse) for a WPDS

-Welding parameters are too high or too low in WPDS for that specific application

-Don't know how to take advantage of prequalified welding joints of each welding codes (the CSA W59 welding standard, and the AWS D1.1, AWS D1.3, AWS D1.6 welding codes)

Regarding to the last item above, there are still professionals who are not familiar with all aspects of a weld code; for example, many of the welding tests (PQR) for welding of austenitic stainless steels could be avoided, by using and referring of welding procedure data sheets to prequalified weld joints of the AWS D1.6 code.

Note: When a procedure WPS (WPDS) needs to be qualified and supported with test reports (PQR), in according to the CSA, ASME or AWS codes, here how to do it:

You need to prepare a preliminary WPS (WPDS) for conducting test (s) in your shop, plant or by your manufacturer contractor (note: all tests need to be witnessed by an authorized person (s) defined in code and/or specified in your contract document). Then, if test results have been successful as per requirements of the code, you can write your test reports (PQR), and then update your WPS (WPDS), in according to actual data for PQR. The software helps you to manage all your documents online and save time!

WeldCanada.com superior welding software provides a unique and simple solution to prepare your weld documents (WPDS, WPS, PQR, WPQR, WPQ, Welders Management Report), for any welding process or material in a few minutes; plus we created over 16,000 prequalified Welding Procedure Data Sheets (WPDS's) that fully code-checked with either the CSA welding standard or the AWS welding codes, literally.

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1.4 Who should sign and approve my weld documents, based on requirements of the welding code?

It depends on your company certification program, your QA/QC manual, and an applicable welding standard or welding code.

1) The CSA Standards:

Based on the CSA welding standards requirements, here are two scenarios to verify if you need an engineer to sign or stamp your weld document, as part of the CWB certification process:

Case 1: Your Company is not certified with the CWB Group:

If you don't use the CSA Standard, then an authorized person, as described for the AWS or ASME code, should sign your document, based on the requirements of the AWS, ASME or any other weld code (See item 2).

Case 2: Your Company is certified or applied for certification with the CWB Group, for the purpose of using the CSA Standard:

In this case, if you are Division 3 Company, you don't need an engineer; instead welding supervisor can sign your welding document. Division 1 or 2 companies need an engineer for welding document preparation, based on the requirement of the CSA W47.1/ W47.2 Standards. Learn more about Divisions

Do you know that many CWB designated engineers are using WeldCanada.com services to create weld documents for their clients? You can see members' profiles and engineers in the WeldCanada.com welding community.

2) The AWS and ASME codes

Both the AWS and ASME codes require that, an authorized persons, Manufacturer or Contractor, should sign the welding documents. Please read scope and responsibility Clauses in Section one of each welding codes.

-For prequalified procedure approval based on the AWS D1.1, AWS D1.3 and AWS D1.6 code, an authorized person can be QA/QC manager, owner or owner's representative, welding supervisor or engineer responsible for the product lines oversight. 

-For non-prequalified procedure, final review and signature on your weld document must be done by the Engineer.

Notes from the AWS codes in regards to responsibility of the Engineer *:

-AWS D1.1/ AWS D1.3/ AWS D1.6: All WPS's (except prequalified WPS's) shall qualified and approved by the Engineer

-AWS D1.2: Contractor is responsible; document should sign by the Engineer for Contractor

-AWS D1.5: Contractor is responsible; document should sign by the Engineer for Contractor. Engineer could be State Engineer, Bridge Engineer or owner's representative.

Please note that Contractor can submit WPS to the Engineer for approval, as well as prepare WPS for conducting tests to qualify WPS's.

* Note: The word "Engineer" referenced in a code could be a structural, mechanical, welding or design engineer with solid knowledge of code.

Third party agent representative can also witness, sign or stamp your document, in addition of your authorized person signature, when it is required by your contract document or when it requested by your client.

If your company is using only the AWS and ASME welding codes (not the CSA welding standard), you can join to our sister company at www.WPSAmerica.com

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1.5 What are the features of WeldCanada.com's Welding Community? How to collaborate and business network with all users of WeldCanada.com?

Welding Community is a place that you can collaborate and business network with 100's of company members, from Fortune 500 companies, consulting engineers, certified inspectors to fabricators worldwide.

To make your communication more efficient, we upgraded welding community by adding instant email notification. When a user send you a message, you will receive an email notification right away.

Note: As we respect your privacy, your e-mail address is protected from view by users; users can communicate with you using your UserID only!

You can create your webpage (WeldCanada.com/UserID) by adding text, pictures or video (by copy embed video from YouTube.com), and communicate with all company members.

To start business networking with members in your welding community, please click here

1.6 Does our company need to purchase more than one account? If we decide to have multiple accounts, what would be the cost?

We recommend multiple individual accounts for medium to big Companies, Colleges and Universities.

Note: each individual account include private log in access (UserID and Password), with internal e-mail for users' collaboration.

For a limited budget, you can share the software with couple of other co-worker (students for Colleges or Universities). Please note that, two persons can't use the software independently (with the same log in access), at the same time. Also, when sharing, one user is able to review, modify or delete the document that created, by previous user. That's why we recommend multiple individual accounts for medium to big companies, colleges and Universities.

We will provide you quote that suits your need and your budget. Please contact us with your inquiry, include type of software package plan, with number of individual accounts that you need.

WeldCanada.com online welding software provides no restriction for the user, plus there is no company license fee or maintenance fee for the services. Our fee includes software upgrades, code updates, and is good for unlimited intra company use, available anywhere online.

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1.7 What would happen when my plan (1-year or 2-year) is near to expire? How to renew my plan? Do you have recurring payment plan (automatic renewal) in place? Do you inform me, in advance, if I want to renew my plan? What is the WeldCanada.com policy for refund and termination of service?

WeldCanada.com committed to provide you with the continuous value-added services.

In order to provide you with uninterrupted service, we offer automatic renewal service for your software account with WeldCanada.com, by conveniently billing the credit card on file, before your subscription expires.

Before that your subscription expires and before any new charges to your credit card, you will receive an email notification from us in advance, in regards to upcoming automatic renewal for another term plan (1-year or 2-year). Unless you ask us otherwise, with your consent, and for your conveniences, your membership will be automatically renewed. Just after it processed, you will receive confirmation e-invoice from us for your record.

Note: Your membership is renewed automatically on expiry unless you object (no obligation, no cancellation fee). You will be charged the renewal subscription fee (plus applicable taxes), which we will notify you by e-mail in advance. Payment will be taken using the credit details originally provided by you during your online registration unless you tell us otherwise.

You may cancel your enrollment to Automatic Renewal at any time, by sending us an e-mail!

Following is SUBSCRIPTIONS AND PAYMENT term from the Privacy Policy and Terms:

Your subscription will continue for the specified subscription period and will renew automatically at the end of each period, under the same fee structure, unless terminated by us in accordance with this agreement or until you notify us of your decision to terminate your subscription.

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1.8 After that I buy a one-year plan subscription, what would happen to my document that saved online on WeldCanada.com site, at the end of the year?

We send notification email in advance to our clients, for upcoming software renewal date. You can renew your service at the end of your plan or ask us to close your account. In regards to documents that you saved online on WeldCanada.com site, you can delete all or any of your documents from the site, at any time, while you using the software.

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1.9 Is online payment on the website secure? Is my personal information kept private?

This website is 100% safe. Ordering online with us is safe and secure. Your credit card information is safe and secure with us. Our secure socket layer (SSL) software is the industry standard and among the best software available today for secure commerce transactions. It encrypts all of your personal information including credit card number, name, and address, so that it cannot be read as the information travels over the Internet.

To learn more about safety of the WeldCanada.com online payment, please click here

We hate spam and we don't share or sell your private information with anybody as we like to keep our personal information safe too. As specified in the Privacy Policy and Terms , we are committed to confidentiality, security and privacy of an individual's personal information. We adhere to all legislative requirements with respect to protecting privacy.

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1.10 Is the software compatible with any other software?

WeldCanada.com software uses online platform, independently (so no compatibility with any other software). We recommend you to sign up and try it for yourself.

1.11 Can I store my WPDS, WPS or PQR forms and data internal to our site, not on WeldCanada.com, as it is considered sensitive data?

All documents that you create by the software can be saved online on our secure server, in WeldCanada.com site for future retrieval and possibility to modify or edit it again, when you need it. You can also save a PDF copy of your document on your computer off line.

Great things about online saving feature of WeldCanada.com software is that you can open any of your saved WPDS, WPS, PQR or WPQR from anywhere and modify it right away, then save it again as your new weld document.

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Part II: Questions on the WeldCanada.com Software Features for Weld Document (WPDS, WPS, PQR, WPQ, WPQR, SWPS, Welders Management Report):

2.1 How the software works? Do I need to download the software on my computer? Can I save my document both online and on my computer? Can I access my account from different computer?

WeldCanada.com software is online platform. So, you don't need to download the software on your computer and you can access your account from any computer or anywhere online.

It works the same way you check your e-mail online! You can log in to your WeldCanada.com software with your UserID and Password, which you choose during online registration.

The great thing about our software is that you can manage all your welding documents online. The software supports all major CSA and AWS codes (structural steel codes for steels, stainless or aluminum), as well as ASME codes (pressure vessel, piping and boiler).

In addition to save a document on your computer, you can save it online. You can save your documents in PDF format, at your end, as well as save it online on WeldCanada.com for future use or modifications. Once you need a copy of your document, just log in to your account from any computer online and save time.

Besides the software, there are also over 16,000 prequalified CSA and AWS welding procedures for welding steels and stainless steels in our database for SMAW (stick), SAW, FCAW, MCAW and GMAW (MIG) processes. Other features that make our service unique are providing users with sample specifications, suggested weld data, shielding gas selection guide, expert presentations, articles, educational and technical information, welding community and much more!

We are proud that, since 2005, hundreds of companies, including NASA, Lockheed Martin, Fortune 500 companies, certified companies with the CWB Group, and manufacturers worldwide are using the software.

It is easy to manage all of your weld documents, by using the WeldCanada.com software, anywhere at anytime.

Please try the WeldCanada.com Demo to see how simple online software work for you.

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2.2 Is there any welding procedure for aluminum GMAW (MIG) process in your database?

Please note that as per CSA W59.2, AWS D1.2 (Aluminum code) or ASME codes, there is no prequalified procedure for welding aluminum with GTAW (TIG) or GMAW (MIG) process.

Note: When a procedure WPS (WPDS) needs to be qualified and supported with test reports (PQR), in according to the CSA, ASME or AWS codes, here how to do it:

You need to prepare a preliminary WPS (WPDS) for conducting test (s) in your shop, plant or by your manufacturer contractor (note: all tests need to be witnessed by an authorized person (s) defined in code and/or specified in your contract document). Then, if test results have been successful as per requirements of the code, you can write your test reports (PQR), and then update your WPS (WPDS), in according to data on PQR. The software helps you to manage all your documents online and save time!

WeldCanada.com committed to provide users with the continued value-added services.

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2.3 Does the software provide any suggested weld data, for welding steels, stainless steels and aluminum, for several welding processes [SMAW (Stick), FCAW, MCAW, GMAW (MIG), GTAW (TIG), SAW]?

Yes. Users have access to suggested weld data, while using the software. Suggested weld data are based on years of extensive research done on many resources, including most of the manufacturers data, and it meets with the requirements of applicable welding code for the purpose of prequalified procedure.

Please note that weld data might vary between electrodes manufacturers (Lincoln Electric, ESAB, Hobart Brothers, etc.), and as stated on all consumable manufacturers' data sheets, it needs to be adjusted at your shop or on the field, to meet with the job situation (i.e. joint type, position, length of cable, etc.). 

To join, please click here

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2.4 What are the main features of the software? Does the software prevent us from putting illogical or invalid information in any area that would not meet the specification being addressed?

To make a better decision, there are instant codes' qualified range (code's rules), in each forms (WPDS, WPS, PQR, WPQ, WPQR), plus Guides (in orange color) beside of essential variables for users' quick review to manage your entire documents in compliance with the CSA, AWS and/or ASME Codes.

Note: The software does not replace engineering or professional judgment; however it provides you with the most necessary tools, guides and data to make preparation of your weld documents simple, fast, fun, and headaches FREE

There are 3 field types in any form (WPDS, WPS, PQR, WPQ, WPQR, Welder Management):

1-Fields that upon your selection from database, the software would automatically add data to your form, type free (like base metal, filler metal, joint type, sketches, heat treatment requirements, qualified ranges, etc.).

2-Fields with a drop-down feature that upon your selection, the software would add selected data to your form, type free.

3-Fields that you need to type text or data by yourself, code related or non-code related data like your name, amperage, voltage, etc. For code related data, the software provides Guides for each code, in every form; please review all the guidelines, before typing any code related data to your form.

Above fields (type 3), capture data exactly as you type on it (i.e. if you type Suzan instead of Susan or you enter 12 volt instead of 22 volt, your entry would remain as you typed in your form). In this case, you need to do a quick final review of your form, before save it, and make sure that there is no any typing error in your form.

Please try the WeldCanada.com Demo to see how simple online software work for you.

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2.5 Does the software guide us for selection of shielding gas? Does the software have the ability to choose between short-circuiting mode of transfer and spray mode of transfer for GMAW (MIG) welding process?

To achieve spray or short circuit mode of transfer, you need to have both right shielding gas, and right weld parameters (Amperage, Wire Feed Speed, Voltage). Welding procedure also needs to comply with the weld code for selected mode of arc transfer; for example, prequalified joints for MIG process apply to spray transfer only, according to both the CSA W59 and the AWS D1.1, while both spray and short circuit mode allow for prequalified joints of the AWS D1.6 (with some limitation).

WeldCanada.com's 16,000 prequalified procedures for GMAW (MIG), FCAW and MCAW processes have the right gases that would meet with the acceptable mode of metal transfer (Short circuiting, Globular, Spray Transfer) based on the applicable welding code.

Quick guides and presentations for shielding gases are also included by the software that helps users for choosing an appropriate gas.

Please try the WeldCanada.com Demo to see how simple online software work for you.

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2.6 Does the software offer access to any code? How to order welding code?

The software provides no access to a code book. However, the software provides full code's rules and complete guidance for the most essential variables; users can also gain an insight from highlights of codes, plus guides that provided in each form (WPDS, WPS, PQR, WPQ, WPQR, Welders Management Report).

Please try the WeldCanada.com Demo to see how simple online software work for you.

You can order the latest edition of welding codes from www.CSA.ca or www.AWS.org or www.ASME.org

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2.7 Does the software provide Standard WPS (SWPS) for the ASME code?

The AWS.org provides SWPDS's that are acceptable to the ASME code (See Article V and Mandatory App. E of ASME IX).

If you need to purchase SWPDS's, please check the AWS website or just click here:

http://www.awspubs.com

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2.8 Do you recommend us for choosing proper procedure, electrode or material that works for our project?

Please note that as for liability issue, we are not providing consulting services online or suggesting you a product, electrode or material. There are many factors involved for a project, and designated engineer, for project, is responsible to make decisions. According to welding codes, an authorize person for preparing weld documents is an engineer (s), with sound knowledge of codes, specifications and any additional requirements, when requested in your contract document for the project (see Question #1.4 for detail info).

Many of our users are engineers and professionals with knowledge of welding codes, who are responsible to make decision for their project (i.e. type of materials, electrodes, joint configuration, etc.). To make a quick decision, the software provides users with instant codes' qualified ranges (code's rules) and full code's guidance for a fast preparation of your weld documents (WPDS, WPS, PQR, WPQR, WPQ, Welders Management Report).

It is also simple to download procedure (s) from the library of 16,000 prequalified WPDS's in our database, by anyone (i.e. professionals, quality control staff, inspectors, welders, educators, students). However, engineering judgment for choosing a proper prequalified procedure for use in a project, when permitted by code, is highly advised by the CSA W59, AWS D1.1, AWS D1.3 or AWS D1.6 code.

WeldCanada.com committed to provide users with the continued value-added services.

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2.9 I need a procedure to weld 304 stainless steel to mild steel which conforms to the AWS requirements. Can your service help? We are a machine shop, which also does welding. We are certified per AWS for carbon steel but don't have the technical resources to develop more complex procedures.

There are over 16,000 prequalified procedures in our database for CSA W59 and AWS codes (D1.1 for carbon steel, D1.3 for sheet carbon steel and D1.6 for stainless steel). In addition the software help you to prepare any type of WPDS, WPS, PQR, and WPQR based on most D1 Series code and CSA codes, as explained in Product information webpage of the site, including demos and samples.

Welding carbon steel to stainless steel is not assumed a prequalified procedure based on the CSA, AWS and ASME codes, so you need to qualify your procedure by preparing PQR.

In regards to welding carbon steel to stainless steel, you need first to decide which code you need to prepare your procedures for, then to qualify your procedure, you need to prepare PQR by doing test in your shop, in according to the CSA, AWS or ASME code.

The software provides user with all the tools, guide and code's rules for a dozen of the CSA, AWS and ASME codes to prepare your weld documents.

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2.10 I am an HVAC and Electrical Engineer and know nothing about welding. Will your software guide me to which standard to follow, type of joint, and welding process for a given pipe size and pressure?

The software does not replace engineering judgment or experience otherwise all engineers would be out of job. Each code specify responsibility of an engineer in charge of a project for design and welding, a person who should decide about choosing the right code, materials, filler metals, type of weld, size of weld, etc. NOT the software.

However, with some knowledge, user can benefits a lot by take advantage of the software. The software has all the tools that one need to add all the dots together in a short period of time and manage all your documentation in according to code.

Please ask a welding specialist to help you, as welding is a serious business and one should decide for the code restrictions, code requirements, type of material, process, etc. Also keep in mind that in welding codes there are definitions for engineers, responsibility, contractor, and all other requirements for creating a sound weld practice.

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2.11 We do not have a structural engineer in house. We outsource that service. I am the senior engineer and my degree is in Electrical Engineering. While I do know the difference between a fillet and a butt joint, that is about the extent of my welding knowledge. Would I be able to complete an online WPDS with a limited understanding of welding? Does your software "ask questions" or will I need to know what I am doing already?

The software does not replace engineering judgment or experience otherwise all engineers would be out of job. Each code specify responsibility of an engineer in charge of a project for design and welding, a person who should decide about choosing the right code, materials, filler metals, type of weld, size of weld, etc. NOT the software. However, with some knowledge, user can benefits a lot by take advantage of the software. The software has all the tools that one need to add all the dots together in a short time and manage all your documentation in according to code.

There are also 16,000 prequalified WPDS's in our database, based on CSA and AWS codes, that you only need minutes to search and download what you might need right away. When you need to create your custom WPDS or qualify your WPDS, then the software helps you with that too, but again you would make decision of what and how you want to weld two pieces together, not the software.

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2.12 I need a weld procedure for welding ASTM A234 WP22 to A312 304L. I'm not sure what welding process to use for this weld. Can you provide some instruction in this area?

Please note that in our library of 16,000 prequalified CSA and AWS procedures, only austenitic stainless steels are covered, because AWS D1.6 only allow using of austenitic stainless steel materials for the purpose of prequalification.

ASTM A312 304L is austenitic stainless steel seamless pipe that includes in Table 5.2 of AWS D1.6 prequalified materials, however ASTM A234 WP22 is Cr-Mo pipe fitting alloy steel that is not considered prequalified material based on AWS D1.6 code.

There are also Table guides in AWS D1.6 for selecting right filler metals, when you weld two different metals.

You can use the welding software and create your procedure for CSA, AWS or ASME codes.

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2.13 We do in house welding with ASTM A36, A572, A514 and SAE 4130. I was curious if your database has prequalified weld procedures for these types of materials? Do you have Prequalified WPS for 4130 material?

First, you didn't specify welding code that your procedure shall be written and comply with. If you are referring to AWS D1.1 prequalified WPS , materials in our prequalified WPS's are steels in Groups I, II and III of Table 5.3 of AWS D1.1 code. ASTM A36 is listed in group I and II, and ASTM A572 is listed in group II of Table 5.3 of prequalified materials in AWS D1.1 code.

Note: Only materials listed in Table 5.3 of AWS D1.1 can be used as prequalified materials in a prequalified WPS.

ASTM A514 is listed in Table 6.9 of AWS D1.1 and it needs to be qualified by conducting test at your shop in according to code.

AISI-SAE 4130 is not listed in AWS code. You need to qualify your procedure for this material in according to code.

AISI-SAE 4130 Heat Treatable Low Alloy Steels (HTLAS) material should be welded based on guidance from material supplier. There are also more guides about welding of this material for subscribers of WeldCanada.com supplier.

Please continue to read this section to find more details about our library of prequalified procedures.

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Part III: Technical Questions about the WeldCanada.com's 16,000 Prequalified WPDS's:

3.0 Are the prequalified WPDS, same as a prequalified welding procedure?

Welding Procedure Data Sheet (WPDS) used by the CSA code is very similar to Welding Procedure Specification (WPS) or just "welding procedure" that used by the AWS code. Please note that if you don't use CSA code, to not get confused between WPDS's and WPS's, we advise you to sign up with WPSAmerica.com for AWS codes and/or ASME welding standard.

If you don't know, what welding code you need to use for your job, you need to consult with your engineer. An engineer can prepare your welding documents and make recommendation and advice you, based on the applicable welding code.

3.1 What is the definition of Weld Type (Fillet weld, Partial groove weld, Complete groove weld), WPDS, WPS, PQR, CWB Certified Company Division, etc.?

Partial Joint Penetration (PJP) Groove Weld: Groove welds without steel backing, welded from one side, or groove welded from both sides, but without back gouging, are considered PJP groove welds.

Complete Joint Penetration (CJP) Groove Weld: CJP groove welds made with backing, or welded without the use of backing, but have the root back gouged to sound metal before welding is started from the second side, are considered CJP groove welds.

Fillet Weld: Joints where the joined pieces are between 60 and 135 degree are considered fillet weld.

More useful definitions from the CSA W47.1, Certification of Companies for Fusion Welding of Steel:

-CWB (Canadian Welding Bureau)

-AWS (American Welding Society, Inc.)

-CSA (Canadian Standards Association)

-ASTM (American Society for Testing and Materials)

-WPDS (Welding Procedure Data Sheet):

A document, used in conjunction with a WPS, detailing the welding parameters and ranges for welding a specific joint, over a range of thicknesses and weld sizes, as illustrated on the data sheet.

-WPS (Welding procedure specification):

A general document that outlines shop and field welding practice and limitations for a welding process. Welding parameters and ranges are specified and used to prepare associated WPDS.

-PQR (Procedure Qualification Test Record):

A document containing all essential variable information recorded during the welding of the test assembly, and the test results of the tested specimen (s).

-Welding engineer: The employed or retained professional engineer officially designated by the company to be responsible for welding-related activities specified by the company.

-Welding supervisor:

The company's designated person(s) directly responsible for ensuring that qualified tack welders, welders, and welding operators weld in accordance with approved or accepted welding procedure data sheets, WPDS, in the shop and the field.

Divisions:

The differentiation of certified companies shall be based on the following:

(a) Division 1:

The company shall employ a welding engineer on a full-time basis;

(b) Division 2:

The company shall retain a welding engineer on a part-time basis; and

(c) Division 3:

The company is not required to employ or retain a welding engineer

Note: All Division 1, 2 and 3 also need to have qualified Welding Supervisor and Welders.

If your company is using only the AWS and ASME welding codes (not the CSA welding standard), you can join to our sister company at www.WPSAmerica.com

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3.2 What is a prequalified weld joint or prequalified Welding Procedure Data Sheet (WPDS), and what are the benefits of using prequalified WPDS's? What is a Non-prequalified weld joint?

A weld joint specified in a governing code that does not require validation of welding parameters through the performance of a procedure qualification test (PQR), is prequalified weld joint.

Governing codes that designate joints as prequalified are the CSA W59, AWS D1.1, AWS D1.3, AWS D1.6

Prequalified procedures that meet with the requirements of the CSA Standard or the AWS codes could save your company time and money, by eliminating needs to perform costly welding tests (PQR). Using proper procedure would also improve quality of your products.

Following paragraph relates to only certified company with the Canadian Welding Bureau (CWB Group):

By using joints designated as prequalified in the governing standard, Welding Procedure Data Sheet (WPDS), can be approved by CWB without further testing required as long as:

[]  You would use it within circumstance of essential variables, and

[]  If it provides that all the other requirements of governing standard has been met.

A weld joint that does not specified in a governing code as prequalified weld joint, that does require validation of welding parameters through the performance of a procedure qualification test (PQR), is Non-prequalified weld joint.

Our database of Sketches (weld joints) library, includes over 500 codes' related weld joints, including all prequalified weld joints, as well as standard weld joints, that help you avoid drawing on your own.

You can access to over 16,000 CSA and AWS prequalified Welding Procedure Data Sheets (WPDS's), for steel and stainless steel (Plate, Pipe, Sheet, Box), by click here

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3.3 What welding codes allow the use of prequalified weld joints and prequalified WPDS's?

Governing codes that designate prequalified weld joints, for using prequalified Welding Procedure Data Sheets (WPDS's) are the following codes:

-CSA W59-18 Welded Steel Construction-Metal Arc Welding

See weld joints on Figures 10.1 and 10.2 on Section 10 (PJP, CJP, Fillet)

-AWS D1.1 Structural Welding Code-Steel:

See weld joints as shown in Figure 5.5 (CJP Groove, T and Corner Joint); Figure 5.1 (CJP Groove-Plate or Pipe); Figures 10.7, 10.8, 10.9, 10.10 and 10.11 (CJP Groove, T- Y- K- Tubular); Figure 5.2 (PJP Groove-Plate or Pipe); Figure 10.6 (PJP Groove, T- Y- K- Tubular); Figure 5.3 (Fillet-Plate); Figure 5.4 (Skewed T-Joint, Non-Tubular); Figure 10.5 (Fillet-Tubular) of AWS D1.1

-AWS D1.3 Structural Welding Code-Sheet Steel:

See weld joints on Figures on Section 5 (PJP, CJP, Fillet)

-AWS D1.6 Structural Welding Code-Stainless Steel:

See weld joints on Figures 5.2, 5.3, 5.4, and 5.5 (PJP, CJP, Fillet)

If your company is using only the AWS and ASME welding codes (not the CSA welding standard), you can join to our sister company at www.WPSAmerica.com

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3.4 Are you keep the WeldCanada.com's 16,000 prequalified Welding Procedure Data Sheets (WPDS's) up-to-date with the code updates?

When using the WeldCanada.com prequalified procedures, you take advantage of codes and avoid doing unnecessary costly tests. These procedures prepared by the code experts, and are updated with the latest edition of structural steel welding codes.

The software is also continuously updated to meet with the latest version of each CSA, AWS and ASME welding codes, reducing the costs associated with ordering code's revision every year.

WeldCanada.com's prequalified welding procedures ease the complexity of development of weld procedures for structural steel applications (Sheet, Plate, Pipe, Box), in accordance with the CSA W59, AWS D1.1, AWS D1.3 and AWS D1.6 welding codes.

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3.5 What types of weld process are used in the WeldCanada.com's 16,000 prequalified WPDS's?

Prequalified Welding Procedure Data Sheets (WPDS's) were prepared for the most used industry weld processes:

SMAW (Shielded Metal Arc Welding) or stick welding

FCAW (Flux Cored Arc Welding)

SAW (Submerged Arc Welding)

GMAW (Gas Metal Arc Welding) or MIG welding for Solid wires

MCAW (Metal Cored Arc Welding) for Metal Cored wires

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3.6 Does the software provide prequalified welding procedure data sheet for GTAW (TIG) process?

The AWS D1.6 Structural Steel Code for Stainless Steel, and the AWS D1.3, Structural Steel Code for Sheet Steel, are allow using GTAW (TIG), as prequalified process, also the CSA W59-18 but not AWS D1.1 Structural Steel Code for Steel.  However, the software helps users to create procedures for any process, including prequalified TIG or non-prequalified TIG process depends on code rules. Our database of Sketches library (weld joints), includes over 500 codes' related weld joints, including all prequalified weld joints for TIG process of AWS D1.6 code [Figure 5.4 (CJP) and Figure 5.3 (PJP)], and AWS D1.3 code (Figures of Section 5).

Complete Joint Penetration (CJP) Groove Weld; Partial Joint Penetration (PJP) Groove Weld

The main reason that WeldCanada.com doesn't provide instant prequalified procedure for TIG process is because that industry tend to use other low cost and faster process (GMAW, FCAW, MCAW, SMAW, SAW) for structural steel applications.

Note: TIG process requires higher skilled welder, and mainly used for quality welding of the ASME code's products, like pressure parts that require 100% X-Ray and NDT approval rate. It also used for structural works, mainly for cosmetic purposes.

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3.7 What are the base materials groups used in the WeldCanada.com's 16,000 prequalified WPDS's?

Depends on your search and selection of electrode types, base metals on a prequalified WPDS includes one of the following material groups to meet with the codes' requirements:

-Steels in Groups I and II of Table 5.3 of AWS D1.1 Code (Excluding Weathering Steels)

-Steels in Category A of Table 5.8 of AWS D1.1 Code

-Weathering Steels, ASTM A 588 (Cor-Ten B) or Steels in Group III of Table 5.3 of AWS D1.1

-Steels in Groups I and II of Table 1.2 of AWS D1.3 Code

-Steels in Group I of Table 1.2 of AWS D1.3 Code (for AWS A5.1 E60XX only)

-Austenitic Stainless Steel 304, 304L, 316, 316L Grades, Group A/B of Table 5.2 -AWS D1.6

-Steels in Groups 1, 2, 3 of Tables 11.1 and 12.1 of CSA W59-18 Standard

-Steels in Column 2 of Table 5.3 of CSA W59-18 Standard

-Weathering Steels, 350A, 350AT, 400A, 400AT (50A, 50AT, 60A, 60AT), ASTM A 588 of Tables 11.1 and 12.1 of CSA W59-18 Standard

Note: Prequalified procedure is only acceptable for the CSA W47.1/W59, AWS D1.1, AWS D1.3, and AWS D1.6 code, considering limitations for each code. Therefore, use of prequalified procedure is not allowed by other codes (i.e. ASME, CSA W59.2, AWS D1.2).

Please try prequalified Free Demo

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3.8 What are the generic gas mixtures used in the WeldCanada.com's 16,000 prequalified WPDS's for FCAW, MCAW and GMAW (MIG) process?

WeldCanada.com's 16,000 prequalified procedures for GMAW (MIG), FCAW and MCAW processes have the right gases that would meet with the acceptable mode of metal transfer (Short circuiting, Globular, Spray Transfer) based on the applicable welding code.

One of the WeldCanada.com valued members is Mr. Ed Craig from WeldReality.com. He worked with gas companies, AWS Technical Committee and weld industry for over 40 years; he wrote a few books in regards to weld process control and shielding gases. He describes in his website and his book that many expensive Tri-Mix generic gases (like combination of CO2, Argon and O2) in the market are not necessary produce a better weld for MIG welding, and he recommends to choose right weld parameters with dual gas mix instead.

Ed recommends using only Ar+15% CO2 or Ar+10% CO2 for carbon steels and Ar+2% CO2 for stainless steels.

Quick guides and presentations for shielding gases are also included by the software that helps users for choosing an appropriate gas.

Here is just a preview of shielding gases guides for GMAW (MIG) process:

-Carbon steel solid wire (MIG): Shielding gases, spray mode: Ar+8 to 10% CO2 or Ar+15% CO2

-Stainless steel solid wire (MIG): Shielding gases, spray mode: Ar+2% CO2 or Ar+2% O2

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