Certified Welding Service

Astro currently holds certifications in STAINLESS STEEL conforming to AWS D1.6, CARBON STEEL conforming to AWS D1.1, and ALUMINUM conforming to AWS D1.2. Within each of these categories, there is a plethora of specific welding certifications that can be obtained, and we add to our library of certified welds as needed per project, per customer. The different types of certifications specify parameters such as thickness of metal, the position being welded in, joint configuration, and others.

Currently our customers who require certified welding include Minnesota Department of Transportation for bridge railing and others in the construction business, as well as some OEM`s (original equipment manufacturers). Even if certified welding is not required, having policy and procedures in place, and welders trained and tested to AWS standards is indicative of that company`s ability and commitment to quality welding and fabrication.

The American Society of Welding (AWS) sets the standards for certified welding. The purpose is to document the ability of welders to deposit sound welds. Controls are imposed on the documents and the maintenance of certification.

Documentation includes:

• Welding Procedure Specifications (WPS) listing the base metal, thickness, welder settings, and about 20 other parameters must be identified. These WPS`s are documented and filed for easy reference.
• Procedure Qualification Records(PQR). Documentation of a welder`s ability to produce welds meeting prescribed standards.
• Welder Qualification Test Record. This documents the results of the testing of the welds performed by a welder using a certain PQR. The test facility must be accredited by the AWS.
• Welder Certification: The document shows that a certain individual is certified to a certain PQR. In order to maintain certification, documentation of a particular weld performance must occur at least every 6 months.