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100+ Free AWS Welder Performance Qualifier Practice Questions
AWS CWI/SCWI Welder Performance Qualifier Endorsement practice questions are available now; exam metadata is being verified.
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Key Facts: AWS Welder Performance Qualifier Exam
100
Practice Questions
OpenExamPrep
70%
Passing Score
AWS
Open book
Exam Format
AWS
$540 / $630
Member / Non-member Fee
AWS
CWI / SCWI
Prerequisite
AWS
Apr 2025
Function-based SCWI Path Launch
AWS
The AWS CWI/SCWI Welder Performance Qualifier Endorsement is a function-based credential added to a current Certified Welding Inspector (CWI) or Senior Certified Welding Inspector (SCWI) certification. Launched in April 2025 as one of four endorsements that build a stackable path to the SCWI, it tests an inspector's command of conducting welder qualification tests: applying essential variables, selecting plate/pipe positions (1G-6G, 1F-4F), determining the range of qualification, evaluating results by visual, bend, RT, and macroetch criteria, and completing Welder Performance Qualification (WPQ) records. The open-book, multiple-choice exam requires 70% to pass and costs $540 for AWS members ($630 non-members); primary references are AWS Best Practices for Performing a Welder Qualification Test, AWS B2.1/B2.1M:2021, and AWS B5.4. This free prep includes 100 research-based practice questions with explanations and an AI tutor.
Sample AWS Welder Performance Qualifier Practice Questions
Try these sample questions to test your AWS Welder Performance Qualifier exam readiness. Each question includes a detailed explanation. Start the interactive quiz above for the full 100+ question experience with AI tutoring.
1What is the primary purpose of a welder performance qualification test?
A.To qualify the welding procedure specification (WPS)
B.To demonstrate that a welder can deposit sound weld metal following a qualified WPS
C.To establish the mechanical properties of the base metal
D.To certify the welding equipment for production use
Explanation: Performance qualification proves the welder has the skill to deposit sound weld metal within the range of variables tested while following a qualified WPS. It tests the person, not the procedure; procedure qualification (PQR) tests the WPS and base-metal mechanical properties separately.
2Which document is the primary AWS specification cited for the Welder Performance Qualifier Endorsement covering procedure and performance qualification?
A.AWS A2.4
B.AWS B2.1/B2.1M:2021
C.AWS A5.1
D.AWS QC1
Explanation: AWS B2.1/B2.1M:2021, Specification for Welding Procedure and Performance Qualification, is a primary reference for the endorsement. It defines the rules, variables, and ranges for qualifying both procedures and welders.
3A welder qualifies on a groove weld in the 3G (vertical) position using vertical-up progression. Under AWS D1.1, may the welder then weld vertically with downhill (vertical-down) progression in production?
A.Yes, position qualification covers both progressions
B.No, progression direction is an essential variable and downhill is not qualified
C.Yes, but only on fillet welds
D.Only if the plate thickness is under 1/4 inch
Explanation: Under AWS D1.1, vertical progression direction is an essential variable for welders. A welder qualified vertical-up is NOT qualified for vertical-down, and vice versa, because the techniques and resulting weld soundness differ significantly.
4In welding position nomenclature, what does the '6G' designation indicate?
A.A flat-position fillet weld on plate
B.A pipe groove weld with the pipe axis fixed at 45 degrees, inclined
C.An overhead groove weld on plate
D.A horizontal fillet weld on pipe
Explanation: 6G is a pipe groove-weld test position in which the pipe axis is fixed at a 45-degree incline and cannot be rotated, forcing the welder through flat, vertical, and overhead orientations in one pass. The 'G' denotes groove and the inclined fixed position makes it the most demanding pipe test.
5A welder passes a 6G pipe groove test. For which positions is the welder qualified to make pipe groove welds?
A.6G only
B.1G and 2G only
C.All pipe groove positions (1G through 6G)
D.5G only
Explanation: Because 6G (inclined, fixed pipe) combines flat, vertical, and overhead welding in one test, passing it qualifies the welder for all pipe groove positions (1G, 2G, 5G, and 6G). It is the single test giving the broadest position coverage on pipe.
6Under AWS D1.1, which plate test position(s) qualify a welder for all four groove positions (flat, horizontal, vertical, overhead) on plate with one combination test?
A.1G alone
B.2G alone
C.3G and 4G together
D.1F and 2F together
Explanation: A combined 3G (vertical) plus 4G (overhead) plate groove test qualifies the welder for all four plate groove positions. A single 1G or 2G test only covers the easier positions, while 3G and 4G prove vertical and overhead skill.
7When a welder qualifies on a plate groove test using steel backing, what limitation applies to production welding under AWS D1.1?
A.The welder may weld with or without backing freely
B.The welder is qualified only for welds made with backing, not for welds without backing or welded from both sides
C.The welder may weld pipe of any diameter
D.The welder is limited to fillet welds only
Explanation: Welding with backing is easier because the root is supported. A welder qualified WITH backing is not qualified to weld a single-sided groove WITHOUT backing. Welding without backing (or with back-gouging from the second side) is treated as the more demanding condition.
8A welder qualifies on a 3/8 in (10 mm) thick groove test coupon. Under the common 2t rule used in AWS B2.1/ASME IX for limited-thickness qualification, what is the maximum production thickness qualified?
A.3/8 in (10 mm)
B.3/4 in (19 mm)
C.Unlimited
D.1/4 in (6 mm)
Explanation: Under the 2t rule, a test coupon of thickness t qualifies the welder up to a maximum of 2t. A 3/8 in coupon therefore qualifies up to 3/4 in. Unlimited thickness generally requires a coupon at least 1/2 in (13 mm) thick with three or more weld layers.
9To qualify a welder for unlimited base-metal thickness in groove welding under AWS B2.1/ASME IX, the test coupon must generally be at least which thickness AND deposited in how many layers?
A.3/8 in (10 mm) with one layer
B.1/2 in (13 mm) with three or more weld layers
C.1/4 in (6 mm) with two layers
D.1 in (25 mm) with a single pass
Explanation: A groove coupon of at least 1/2 in (13 mm) deposited in three or more layers qualifies the welder for unlimited production thickness. The multiple layers demonstrate the welder can build up sound weld metal over many passes, which is what thick joints require.
10Filler metals are grouped by 'F-number' for performance qualification primarily to:
A.Indicate the tensile strength of the deposited weld
B.Group electrodes by usability/operating characteristics so qualification on one covers similar electrodes
C.Specify the required preheat temperature
D.Identify the base-metal P-number
Explanation: F-numbers group filler metals and electrodes by their usability and operating characteristics (e.g., similar arc behavior and technique). Qualifying with one electrode generally qualifies the welder for others in the same or a lower F-number, reducing the number of tests needed.
About the AWS Welder Performance Qualifier Practice Questions
Verified exam format metadata for AWS CWI/SCWI Welder Performance Qualifier Endorsement is pending. The practice questions above remain available while official exam length, timing, passing score, fee, and administrator details are reviewed.