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What Welding Certification Do I Need?

11/10/2023

28 Comments

 
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If you need to take a welding certification test, you might be wondering which test do I take? This is the big question. There is not a single welding certification test that will certify you to weld everything. Most welding certification tests are done under the codes written by AWS (the American Welding Society) or ASME (American Society of Mechanical Engineers.) There is a specific code written for virtually every application of welding- AWS has published 240 codes alone. Knowing which code to be certified to is essential, as welders are only certified to weld within the code parameters of the test they have taken.
​
There are two common scenarios in which someone will seek certification- you would like to add to your credentials, or it is required for a specific job so let's discuss!

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If you would like to get a certification to add to your credentials, you should seek a certification that would cover you for the type of welding you most frequently use. You will need to know what welding process (Stick, TIG or MIG), material types and thickness, and what positions you will use in production. 

One of the most common welding codes is AWS D1.1, which covers structural steel welding like I-beams, channel, or a handrail. If you test and pass on a 3/8" thick plate, using a single vee groove with backing in the vertical position, you would then be qualified to weld in the flat, horizontal and vertical positions on 1/8"-3/4" thick steel members. The test is also offered in 1" thick plate which would also cover all positions, but with no limits on the plate thickness.

If you are welding pipe that is being used to contain fluid or gas, such as a high pressure water line, then ASME Section IX is probably the way to go. If you test and pass on a 5" Schedule 80 (3/8" thick wall) steel pipe in the 6G (45 degree incline position), you will be qualified to weld 2.875" OD pipe, 3/4" wall thickness and less, in all positions.
​
If neither AWS D1.1, nor ASME Section IX would cover the work you most commonly do, it is best to speak to a welding engineer or CWI to help with your selection. 
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If you are seeking certification for a specific job, check the blueprints or project documents to see if a specific code is referenced and if there is not, please consult with the customer to determine which code they intend for you to use.

Once you have identified the code you will be working to, you will need to determine if you need to have a Welding Procedure Specification (WPS) written for you. All code work requires written welding procedures. A WPS is essentially the recipe for a weld. It documents the combination of variables that are to be used in production such as welding process, base material, travel speed, position, etc. Once the WPS is written, it will need to be tested to ensure that these variables are being combined to make a sound weld. The next step is to test each welder that will be welding in production using the parameters in the WPS. To go back to the recipe analogy, this is like a team of chefs being individually quizzed on their ability to follow through a recipe. 

Some codes have "pre-qualified" procedures, meaning they already have the recipe written for you, using known variables that have a long history of producing quality welds. Because of this, it bypasses the requirement for the WPS to be tested. However, it does not bypass the requirement for each welder to be individually tested following the WPS. Testing is still required for the WPS if any variables are changed from the accepted pre-qualified procedures.

If you need help selecting the applicable code and certification test, or need to have a procedure written, it is recommended to work with a welding engineer.

We have a team of engineers and CWI's that can assist you with any problems you face- reach out today to get started!
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Maryland Bridge Welder Certification

11/3/2023

4 Comments

 
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In March 2004, the Maryland State Highway Administration (MDOT SHA) underwent a pivotal change in its approach to welder certification. They discontinued their in-house testing and partnered with the Federal Highway Administration's Mid-Atlantic Structural Committee for Economic Fabrication (SCEF) to establish a regional certification program. Certifying at an AWS Accredited Test Facility (ATF) is now a mandatory requirement for welders working on bridge construction projects in the Mid-Atlantic region, including Maryland.
So, if you're looking to get certified look no further than Earlbeck Gases & Technologies!​​
WE ARE MARLYAND’S FIRST AND ONLY ATF CENTER! 

We can test you in accordance with the bridge welder certification requirements right here!
Register to take the md bridge welding certification
Bridge Construction
Welders must certify at an AWS ATF in order to perform D1.5 Bridge Welding Code work on highway projects in the Mid-Atlantic region. Welders needing certification for bridge welding must contact an ATF center and request to be tested in accordance with D1.5 Bridge Welding
This certification will be accepted by the following States DOT: Maryland, Delaware, Virginia, West Virginia, Washington D.C. and Pennsylvania. 


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Looking for a New Career? Try Welding!

5/19/2023

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​​The demand for skilled welding professionals is on the rise!

The welding industry offers a wide variety of career paths with wages that can vary based on location, occupation, certifications, and experience level. The average hourly earnings for welding jobs is $24.80/hr and the national median salary is $49,500/yr but this can vary based on experience, location, and shift schedule.
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​For those interested in pursuing a career in welding, there are several options to receive formal training:

1. Technical schools offer programs that can be completed in 3-18 months. Make sure to choose a program where you will earn a welding certification.
2. Community colleges  can offer Associate degree programs that take about 2 years to complete.
3. Apprenticeships take 3-4 years to complete and results in a Journeyman's card.
4. Universities offer Bachelor's degree programs which can take 4 years to complete.

Attending a technical school to become a welder is an investment that pays off much quicker than the university path. With the high demand for welding professionals and the potential to earn a competitive salary, pursuing welding as a career can lead to a fulfilling and financially rewarding future.
EARLBECK TECHNICAL SCHOOL CLASSES
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 The field of welding offers a diverse range of jobs that combine trade skills with technology. Welding is both an art and a science, from basic fabrication to advanced robotics. It's a great option for those who enjoy working with their hands and value a sense of community. The skills you'll acquire as a welder are also portable and can lead to rewarding careers in various industries.

With a huge variety of career options, it's easy to find the perfect fit for you! ​Ranging from Shipfitter, Welding Research Scientist, or Pipeliner to Technical Sales, Welder Fabricator, Boilermaker, or Welding Engineer. Or perhaps you’d rather be a Welding Supervisor, Ironworker, or Welding Technician? Still not doing it for you? How about being an Underwater Welder, Pipefitter, Welding Inspector, Robotic Welding Technician, or Welding Educator? There are so many career paths for skilled welders or welding operators. 
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​The welding industry is experiencing a shortage of workers due to more than 155,000 welders approaching retirement age. Approximately 360,000 NEW welding professionals are projected to be needed by 2027 and you could be one of them!
START YOUR CAREER JOURNEY TODAY!
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The Complete AWS Welding Certification Guide in 2023

4/13/2023

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As the welding industry continues to grow, the demand for skilled and well-trained welders is also on the rise. One way to demonstrate your competency and gain a competitive edge in the job market is through The American Welding Society's (AWS) Certified Welder Program. In this article, we will take a closer look at the benefits of becoming a certified welder, the certification process, and the qualifications needed to obtain the certification.

What is The American Welding Society's Certified Welder Program?
The AWS Certified Welder Program is a valuable credential that demonstrates a welder's competency in the welding field, and it is recognized throughout the industry as an indicator of welding expertise. The program tests welders on a specific welding process and application to ensure their skills meet industry standards.

What are the benefits of becoming an AWS Certified Welder?
First, becoming an AWS Certified Welder signifies that you possess the technical skills and knowledge required to excel in the welding industry. With the certification, you can demonstrate advanced knowledge of various welding processes, including shielded metal arc welding (SMAW), flux-cored arc welding (FCAW), gas tungsten arc welding (GTAW), and gas metal arc welding (GMAW). This can help differentiate you from other welders and opens up opportunities for higher-paying jobs or positions with more responsibilities.

What are the requirements for obtaining AWS certification?
There are no prerequisite courses or experience needed to earn an AWS certification, you simply must pass a welding test that assesses your proficiency in the applicable welding process. To ensure consistency and quality, the testing must be done according to AWS standards at an AWS Accredited Test Facility, and welds are inspected by AWS-certified professionals. Once you have successfully passed your test, successful candidates receive a certificate and become AWS Certified Welders. 
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What certifications can I earn under the AWS Certified Welder Program?

Code
Process
Gas
Filler Metal
Base Metal
Position
Thickness/Backing
​Thickness/Pipe OD & Backing
AWS Certified Welder Certification Name
D1.1
SMAW
N/A
E6010 OR E7018
A36
3G
​U - 1/8" Unlimited 3/8" PLATE
SMAW Plate
D1.1
GMAW
AR/CO2 75/25
ER70S-X
A36
3G
​U - 1/8" Unlimited 3/8" PLATE
GMAW Plate 
​D1.1
FCAW
AR/CO2 75/25
E71T
A36
3G
​U - 1/8" Unlimited 3/8" PLATE
FCAW Plate 
D1.1
GTAW
AR
 
A36
3G
​U - 1/8" Unlimited 3/8" PLATE
GTAW Plate
D17.1
GTAW
AR
ER309
M8
​3G
.0388 - .232
S.S. 18 Gauge through 10 Gauge
ASME Section IX
SMAW
N/A
​E6010 OR E7018
​SA106-B or A53-B
6G
​U - 1/8" Unlimited 6" PIPE - 0.280 Wall
​SMAW Pipe
​ASME Section IX
GTAW
AR
ER70S-X
​SA106-B or A53-B
6G
U - 1/8" Unlimited 2" PIPE - 0.218 Wall
​GTAW Pipe (Carbon Steel) 
​ASME Section IX
GTAW
AR
309L
​SA106-B or A53-B
​6G
U - 1/8" Unlimited 2" PIPE - 0.218 Wall 
​GTAW Pipe (Stainless Steel to Carbon Steel) 
​ASME Section IX
GTAW
AR
316L
304
6G
U - 1/8" Unlimited 2" PIPE - 0.109 Wall
​GTAW Pipe (Stainless Steel)
​ASME Section IX
GTAW
​SMAW
AR
ER70S-X
OR
​E7018
​SA106-B or A53-B
​6G
​U - 1/8" Unlimited 2 3/4" PIPE - 0.625 Wall
GTAW/SMAW Pipe (Carbon Steel)
​ASME Section IX
GTAW 
​SMAW
AR
ER80S-B2
​E8018-B2
​SA106-B or A53-B
6G
​U - 1/8" Unlimited 2 3/4" PIPE - 0.625 Wall 
​GTAW/SMAW Pipe (Chrome PWHT) 
​ASME Section IX
GTAW 
​SMAW
AR
ER70SXX
​E7018
A53
6G
​2.875" Unlimited 6" sch 40 PIPE 
​GTAW/SMAW Pipe (Chrome Carbon Steel) 
​How do I keep my AWS Welder Certification active?
Certifications for D9.1 for the Sheet Metal Welding Code require maintenance every 12 months. Certifications in accordance with D1.1 and most other codes require maintenance every 6 months. The Maintenance of Welder Certification Form must be submitted online through https://cw.aws.org/. 

In conclusion, becoming an AWS Certified Welder is an excellent way to demonstrate your welding expertise and advance your career.  By investing in the certification process, you can gain a competitive edge in the industry, prove to potential employers that you have the skills and knowledge needed to excel in the field, and open up new job opportunities. If you are interested in becoming an AWS Certified Welder, we recommend that you begin by reviewing the certification requirements and preparing for the certification exam. With dedication, preparation, and commitment to your craft, you can achieve AWS certification and take your welding career to new heights.
Ready to schedule your test?

​Schedule an appointment by calling us at (410) 687-8400.  Certification testing is done on Tuesdays and Thursdays starting at 8:00 am at our Baltimore, MD and York, PA locations. On the day of the test, please bring a picture ID, and your safety equipment. 

Not local to MD or PA? Find your ATF Testing Facility here. 

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Destructive Weld Testing

1/3/2023

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Machinery, automobiles, aircraft, and office/residential buildings all require welding to help society function with safety and ease. While many activities have a margin for error, welding is not one of them. Just imagine the devastating consequences of poor welding on a nuclear power plant!
Thankfully, the welding industry has various means to test the strength of welds before they are used in production. There are destructive tests which involve physically destroying a completed weld to assess its infrastructure; and non-destructive tests, which check for defects and discontinuities without causing damage to the part.
Understanding the different testing methods and what each evaluates gives your quality control team options for ensuring your weld is fit for service. Whether used for failure analysis, welder performance qualification, or sample or research inspections, destructive weld tests detect crack initiation and other defects before it's too late. ​
Fillet Weld Break Test
​

As its name suggests, fillet weld break tests involve breaking a fillet weld that is fused on only one side. The test is most often conducted on a 6 to 12-inch section.
 
The break (destruction) occurs by using a press to apply weight to the unwelded side until the weld fails. The sample is then examined for flaws.

This test is typically used to check for the following defects:
 
·      Slag inclusions
·      Internal porosity
·      Lack of fusion
·      Linear fusion defects
 
Because it reveals discontinuities within the length of the weld, the fillet weld break test is the way to go to determine the EXTENT of a weld’s defects.
Guided Bend Test
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Once again, this test keeps to its name. A welding specimen is bent to a predetermined radius along a wraparound bend test jig or another test machine. Welders can conduct both face and root bend tests using this method, using side bends to assess thicker sections.

Guided bend tests are particularly adept at assessing:

·      Ductility
·      The soundness of welded joints
·      Linear fusion defects

This is also the most commonly used assessment in welder performance qualification tests.

Macro Etch Testing

Macro etch testing is a highly successful test that removes small samples from the welded joint. The samples are polished at their cross sections before a mild acid mixture (which varies depending upon the base material) is used to etch the joint. The etching, with particular focus on the fusion line, provides insights into the internal structure of the weld.

Characteristics that this test appraises are:

·      Fusion (or lack thereof)
·      Penetration depth
·      Cracking and inclusions
·      Internal porosity

To understand the OVERALL weld-length quality of production welds at the cross-section, use the macro etch testing method. 
Traverse Tension Test

The traverse tension test is used to evaluate a welded joint’s tensile properties. The test is conducted by exerting pulling forces on specimens until the joint fails. Welders then divide the maximum load required during testing by the cross-sectional area to read the units of tension per cross-sectional area.

Because tensile properties of welds (which involve ductility and soundness) are vitally important to manufacturing designs, this test is one of the most crucial to the industry.
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Teach to the Test?

In many industries, the concept of “teaching to the test” is generally frowned upon. The thought is that teaching skills exclusively to achieve certain test scores restricts a student’s capacity for creativity and real-world scenarios. However, when it comes to welding, meeting the criteria of the welding code for your application can mean the difference between life and death for customers. 

From its pervasive role in everything from transportation and housing to tools and technology, welding is an integral part of modern society. It is the welding industry’s responsibility to ensure that welded products maintain the integrity to perform their intended tasks.

If you need destructive or non-destructive weld testing, give the Earlbeck Technical Center team a call at (410) 687-8400 and we will help you select and implement the correct test for your product's service. 

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Baltimore, MD

​8204 Pulaski Hwy
Baltimore, MD 21237

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Welding Supply & Gas Showroom
Hours: Mon- Fri 7:30 AM - 5PM
Phone: (410) 687-8400
Fax: (410) 687-1394

Welder Training & Testing Center
Phone: (410) 687-8400

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Beltsville, MD

10792 Tucker St
Beltsville, MD 20705
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Welding Supply & Gas Showroom
Hours: Mon-Fri  7:30AM - 4:30PM
Phone: (301) 937-8884
​Fax: (301) 937-1811

The College of Southern Maryland's Center for Trades and Energy  Training 
6170 Hughesville Station Place
​Hughesville, MD 20637

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Welder Training & Testing Center
​Phone: (410) 687-8400

York, PA

​95 Aberdeen Rd
York, PA 17406

Welding Supply & Gas Showroom
Hours: Mon-Fri  7:30AM - 4:30PM
Phone: (717) 916-6611
​Fax: (717) 764-1281

Welder Training & Testing Center
​
Phone: (410) 687-8400

AACC Clauson Center for Innovation and Skilled Trades

101 College Parkway
Arnold, MD 21012

​Welder Training & Testing Center
​Phone: (410) 687-8400
​

Scranton, PA

4961 Birney Ave
Scranton, PA 18507

Welding Supply & Gas Showroom
Hours: Mon-Fri 7:30AM - 5:00PM
Phone: (570) 457-8954

Scranton, PA at Johnson College
3427 N Main Ave
Scranton, PA 18508

​
Welder Training & Testing Center
​Phone: (410) 687-8400

​Phone: (443) 868-1162

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