What Is Coded Welding?
To put it simply, a coded welder is someone who has completed a Welder Approval Test in a specific welding configuration.
Each method is specific to a certain job in hand, some codes are more general and some are very specific
In the UK, the welder approval codes are done to BS EN (now ISO) standards. The USA uses the ASME IX standard.
Usually, a welding specification is provided for the job which you then need to qualify to that specification. This means the welder will provide a welding sample that mirrors the job as closely as possible.
This is then examined by an approved test examiner to see if the welder is capable of doing the job. If the welder passes, he/she is then considered to be Coded to that specification.
Being Coded in a certain specification does not mean you are qualified in another, even though you are Coded.
Each specification requires welder training, welding tests and examination, becoming a multi-coded welder.
What are the different types of welding?
TIG – Also Known as Gas Tungsten Arc Welding (GTAW), is commonly used where weld integrity is critical. Produces high-quality welds, leaving no splatter.
MIG – also known as Gas Metal Arc Welding (GMAW), is the most common industrial welding process. High-quality welds which are able to be produced much quicker, covering a wide variety of metals and alloys.
MMA – also known as Stick Welding or Shielded Metal Arc Welding (SMAW), is a relatively low-cost technique and extremely versatile. This process can be used in all positions and in a wide variety of materials.
Fusion Welding – is used for welding polyethylene pipes such as Mdpe. Using heat and copper wire to fuse/melt the ends together. They are commonly used for gas & water pipework.
Coded Welders at Varlowe Industrial Services
Here at Varlowe Industrial Services, we have a team of multi-coded welders covering a range of specifications, materials, diameters and thicknesses.
All of our operatives’ welder approvals are supported by a qualified welding procedure (WPQR).
Based out of our Wolverhampton head office, we offer nationwide support working from our fleet of fully equipped vans.
From Stainless Steel Pipework up to 6g position, to structural steel fabrications. We are your complete Welding Service.
For a more comprehensive overview of different welding types, please visit this brilliant post from Cromweld .
You can also find more information on Wikipedia.