AWS D1.5 is a specialized welding standard published by the American Welding Society (AWS) for bridges and bridge-like steel structures. It establishes technical requirements for welding processes used specifically in steel bridge construction and heavy steel structures.

AWS D1.5 Welding Personnel Certification is a formal certification process that verifies the competence of welders and operators working in accordance with this standard. Since bridge welding involves load-bearing structural elements, certification in this field demands high standards of safety and quality.

AWS D1.5 is the standard specifically used for the welded fabrication of steel bridges and covers the following topics:

• Welding procedure preparation and qualification (WPS, PQR)

• Welder performance tests (WPQ)

• Testing methods (visual, non-destructive, destructive)

• Acceptance criteria (macro, tensile, bend, radiography, etc.)

• Steel grades and welding positions

• Impact testing and weld evaluation based on material behavior

This standard is a technical resource directly referenced in the project specifications of agencies such as the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA).

The certification process is carried out through the following steps:

1. Procedure Determination: The steel material to be welded, the welding position, and the welding method are determined.

2. Test Weld Execution: The welder performs a test weld on a specimen according to a predefined procedure.

3. Inspection and Testing: Following a visual inspection, the weld undergoes non-destructive and/or destructive testing.

4. Evaluation: The test results are evaluated against the acceptance criteria of the AWS D1.5 standard.

5. Certification: Welders who pass the test are issued an AWS D1.5 certificate specific to the position and material.

This process is typically conducted as steel plate welding in 3G, 4G, or 6G positions.

• It is a legal and technical requirement for bridge projects

• To ensure the weld quality of load-bearing systems

• It is required by engineering firms and government tenders

• It is mandatory for safety-critical structures

• It facilitates project approval processes

• It is an internationally recognized certification

• Steel bridge fabrication

• Prefabricated steel bridge assembly

• Rail system projects (viaducts, tunnel portals, etc.)

• Heavy steel structure projects

• High-strength structures

• Steel structure applications in public and infrastructure projects

• High-amperage welding machines (SMAW, FCAW, SAW)

• Bridge-grade steel test plates (3/8 inch, 1 inch, etc.)

• Visual inspection equipment

• Ultrasonic and radiographic testing devices

• Certified welding inspectors (AWS CWI)

• Low-temperature impact testing devices (Charpy V-notch), tensile testing machines, etc.)

• Advantage of being preferred in government and public tenders

• Seamless acceptance process for critical structures

• High level of safety ensured by a qualified workforce

• Documentation support upon project delivery

• Compliance with internationally recognized standards

• Simplified documentation for audits

• The testing process may be more rigorous compared to other welding standards

• Certifications may be project-specific and have limited validity in other sectors

• The certification process requires a high level of skill and experience

• Specific procedures must be implemented for particular materials and welding methods

You can contact us to obtain detailed information about our welding personnel certification services in accordance with the AWS D1.5 standard, to schedule an exam, or to request a price quote.