What is the AWS D1.1 Standard?

AWS D1.1 (Structural Welding Code – Steel) defines welding rules for structural fabrications made from carbon and low-alloy steels. The code standardizes welding methods, acceptance criteria, inspection methods, and qualification requirements.

Its scope includes:

• Welding procedure qualification tests (PQR)

• Welder performance tests (WPQ)

• WPS (Welding Procedure Specification) verification

• Material and joint types

• Welding positions and variables

• Visual and non-destructive testing (VT, RT, UT, MT, PT)

• Acceptance criteria

How is the AWS D1.1 welding test performed?

The AWS D1.1 welding procedure test is conducted in accordance with the test coupons and variables specified by the standard.

The process generally involves:

• Preparation of the WPS document

• Preparation of test plates or specimens

• Execution of the welding operation (SMAW, GMAW, FCAW, SAW)

• Welder position tests (such as 3G, 4G, 5G, 6G)

• Visual inspection (VT)

• Non-destructive testing (RT or UT)

• Mechanical testing (tensile, bend, impact)

• Creation of the PQR (Procedure Qualification Record)

• Issuance of the WPQ (Welder Performance Qualification)

Why is AWS D1.1 Applied?

The AWS D1.1 standard is applied to ensure the safe and durable fabrication of steel structures.

Key reasons for its application include:

• Ensuring structural safety

• Validating welding procedures

• Certifying welder qualifications

• Reducing fabrication defects

• Compliance with construction and industry standards

• International acceptance

What are the application areas?

The AWS D1.1 standard applies particularly to areas involving steel structures:

• Steel building structures

• Bridge and infrastructure projects

• Industrial facility steel structures

• Platform and steel scaffolding systems

• Heavy industrial manufacturing

• Steel structures supporting machinery

Equipment and Techniques

Equipment and techniques used under AWS D1.1:

• SMAW (shielded metal arc) welding machines

• GMAW (MIG/MAG) systems

• FCAW and SAW welding equipment

• Non-destructive testing equipment (UT, RT, MT, PT)

• Mechanical testing equipment

• Specimen preparation equipment

• Welding parameter measurement and recording systems

Advantages

• Ensures high safety in steel structures

• Is internationally recognized

• Standardizes welding procedures

• Clarifies welder qualification

• Enables inspection and traceability

• Minimizes structural defects

Disadvantages

• Testing and certification processes are detailed

• Laboratory and NDT costs are high

• Requires technical expertise

• Re-testing is required for procedure changes

• Documentation burden is significant

Contact us

Conformity assessment and certification activities carried out under the AWS D1.1 Structural Steel Welding Test Procedure are conducted to verify the compliance of steel construction fabrications with international standards.

The inspection and certification processes carried out by our organization encompass the evaluation of the technical adequacy of welding procedures and the verification of code compliance.