6.2 Procedure Qualification Record (PQR)
Key Takeaways
- A PQR records the actual variables and test results from a procedure qualification test weldment
- The PQR provides objective evidence that a WPS will produce acceptable welds
- Required tests: transverse tensile (strength) + guided bend (soundness), plus impact if specified
- Bend test acceptance: no open discontinuity exceeding 1/8" (3 mm) in any dimension
- A single PQR qualifies a range of thicknesses (typically from thin limit to 2× test coupon thickness)
- Tensile test specimens must equal or exceed the minimum specified base metal UTS
6.2 Procedure Qualification Record (PQR)
A Procedure Qualification Record (PQR) is a document recording the actual welding variables used during a qualification test weldment and the results of the required tests. It provides the objective evidence that a welding procedure can produce sound welds with acceptable mechanical properties.
PQR Contents
| Information | Details |
|---|---|
| Actual welding variables | Exact values used (not ranges): amperage, voltage, travel speed, preheat, etc. |
| Base metal | Actual specification, type, grade, P-number, thickness |
| Filler metal | Actual classification, F-number, A-number, diameter |
| Test results | Tensile test, bend test, impact test (if required), hardness (if required) |
| Tested by | Name and certification of testing laboratory |
| Qualified by | Name and signature of responsible engineer or inspector |
Qualification Tests for Groove Welds (AWS D1.1)
| Test | Purpose | Requirement |
|---|---|---|
| Transverse tensile test (×2) | Verify tensile strength meets minimum | Must equal or exceed minimum specified base metal UTS |
| Root bend test (×2) | Verify soundness of root side | No open discontinuity > 1/8" in any dimension |
| Face bend test (×2) | Verify soundness of face side | No open discontinuity > 1/8" in any dimension |
| Side bend test (×4) | For material > 3/8" thick — tests full cross-section | No open discontinuity > 1/8" in any dimension |
| Macro etch (for fillets) | Verify fusion, profile, and soundness | Complete fusion, acceptable profile |
| CVN impact test (if required) | Verify notch toughness at specified temperature | Per contract or code requirements |
PQR Qualification Range
A single PQR qualifies a range of thicknesses, not just the exact thickness tested:
| Test Coupon Thickness (T) | Qualified Thickness Range |
|---|---|
| T < 1/8" | T to 2T |
| 1/8" ≤ T < 3/8" | 1/16" to 2T |
| 3/8" ≤ T ≤ 3/4" | 3/16" to 2T |
| T > 3/4" | 3/16" to unlimited (for most codes) |
Bend Test Details
Guided bend test bends a specimen around a mandrel to a specified angle (typically 180°):
| Specimen Type | What It Tests |
|---|---|
| Root bend | Root side in tension — checks root soundness |
| Face bend | Face side in tension — checks face soundness |
| Side bend | Cross-section in tension — used for T > 3/8" |
Acceptance criteria: No open discontinuity exceeding 1/8" (3 mm) in any dimension on the convex surface of the bend specimen (unless caused by surface discontinuities in the base metal).
For the Exam: Know the relationship between PQR and WPS: the PQR provides evidence that the WPS will produce acceptable welds. Know the required tests (tensile + bend) and the bend test acceptance criteria (no open discontinuity > 1/8").
What is the acceptance criteria for guided bend tests in a procedure qualification?
Which mechanical tests are required for groove weld procedure qualification under AWS D1.1?