A WPQR (Welding Procedure Qualification Record) is a document certified by test results that proves a welding procedure delivers the required mechanical properties. A WPS (Welding Procedure Specification) only defines how to weld; the WPQR proves that the procedure actually achieves the desired properties.
Fundamental rule: Companies manufacturing under EN ISO 3834-2 and EN 1090-2 must link every WPS to a valid WPQR. Welding with an unqualified procedure is not acceptable.
Difference Between WPS and WPQR
| Document | Content | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| WPS | Current, voltage, gas, electrode, pass sequence, preheat | Instructions to the welder on the shop floor |
| WPQR | Test coupon results: tensile, bend, hardness, Charpy, macro | Prove validity of the procedure |
| Certificate | Signature of independent inspection body (TÜV, BV, DNV) | Third-party approval |
EN ISO 15614-1: Qualification Process for Steel
Welding procedure qualification for steel is performed under EN ISO 15614-1. The process involves:
- Prepare pWPS (preliminary WPS): Draft welding parameters.
- Weld the test piece: Using production equipment and personnel under workshop conditions.
- Non-destructive examination (NDE): Visual (VT), penetrant (PT), ultrasonic (UT) or radiographic (RT).
- Destructive tests: Tensile, bend, hardness survey, Charpy impact, macro examination.
- Write and approve WPQR: All results recorded; if acceptable, WPS is formally qualified.
Required Tests
| Test | Acceptance Criterion | Standard |
|---|---|---|
| Tensile | Rm ≥ minimum UTS of base metal | EN ISO 4136 |
| Bend | 4 specimens, 180°, no cracks | EN ISO 5173 |
| Charpy V-Notch | Average energy at WPS temperature ≥ 27 J | EN ISO 9016 |
| Hardness | HV10 — max 380 HV for structural steel (450 HV for S960QL) | EN ISO 9015-1 |
| Macro examination | No cracks, porosity or lack of penetration | EN ISO 17639 |
Scope of Qualification
A WPS qualified through a WPQR covers a limited range. For example:
- Material group: Per CEN ISO/TR 15608 group number (1.1, 1.2, 3, 8.1, etc.)
- Thickness: 0.5 to 2 times the test coupon thickness
- Diameter (pipe): All diameters if test diameter ≥ 25 mm
- Position: Same or easier positions within the group
- Consumables: Same type and strength class
Note: EN ISO 15614-1 (2017 revision) separated aluminium and nickel alloys. Use EN ISO 15614-2 for aluminium welding.
Validity of a WPQR
A WPQR qualified under EN ISO 15614 is indefinitely valid — no renewal required. However, re-qualification is needed if:
- The welding process changes (e.g. MAG to TIG)
- The material group changes
- Thickness exceeds the qualified range
- Consumables change significantly
ArmaWeld WPS/WPQR Library
ArmaWeld holds 80+ approved WPS and WPQR records covering carbon steel (S235–S355), high-strength (S690QL, S700MC, S960QL), stainless (304L, 316L), aluminium alloys (5083, 6082) and wear steels (HARDOX 400/450/500).
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