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100+ Free CWEng Practice Questions

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In the iron-carbon phase diagram, the eutectoid reaction occurs at approximately what temperature?

A
B
C
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2026 Statistics

Key Facts: CWEng Exam

160 Qs

Total Questions

35 + 25 + 60 + 40

10 hrs

Total Time

Across 4 parts

60% / 70%

Passing Score

Each part / overall

$1,400+

Total Exam Fees

All 4 parts

AWS B5.16

Qualification Spec

2025 edition

5 years

Validity

80 CE hours to renew

The CWEng is a four-part exam totaling 160 questions over 10 hours. Part 1 (35 Qs, 2 hrs closed-book) covers math, physics, and chemistry. Part 2 (25 Qs, 2 hrs closed-book) covers strength of materials, heat transfer, and electricity. Part 3 (60 Qs, 3 hrs open-book) covers welding processes, metallurgy, weld design, NDE, brazing, and safety. Part 4 (40 Qs, 3 hrs open-book) covers fabrication, filler metals, inspection, productivity, WPS, and welder qualification. You must score 60% or greater on each part and 70% overall weighted. Fees run $665-$795 per pair of parts plus $80 seat fees on Parts 3 and 4.

Sample CWEng Practice Questions

Try these sample questions to test your CWEng exam readiness. Each question includes a detailed explanation. Start the interactive quiz above for the full 100+ question experience with AI tutoring.

1In the iron-carbon phase diagram, the eutectoid reaction occurs at approximately what temperature?
A.723 degrees C (1333 degrees F)
B.912 degrees C (1674 degrees F)
C.1147 degrees C (2097 degrees F)
D.1538 degrees C (2800 degrees F)
Explanation: The eutectoid reaction in the iron-carbon phase diagram occurs at 723 degrees C (1333 degrees F), where austenite (gamma iron) containing 0.77% carbon transforms into pearlite (a lamellar mixture of ferrite and cementite) on slow cooling. This is a fundamental transformation that governs the microstructure of carbon steels. Exam tip: Memorize the four key iron-carbon temperatures — 723 C eutectoid, 912 C alpha-gamma transformation, 1147 C eutectic, 1538 C melting — they appear on every CWEng Part 3 metallurgy section.
2What is the primary purpose of preheating carbon steel before welding thick sections?
A.To increase deposition rate
B.To reduce cooling rate and prevent hydrogen-induced cracking
C.To remove mill scale and surface contaminants
D.To improve arc stability
Explanation: Preheating slows the cooling rate of the weld and heat-affected zone (HAZ), which reduces the formation of hard, brittle martensite and allows diffusible hydrogen time to escape before it can cause delayed hydrogen-induced cracking (HIC). AWS D1.1 Table 5.8 (prequalified preheat) sets minimum preheat values based on material thickness and steel category. Exam tip: Preheat, interpass temperature, and hydrogen control form the three-legged stool of HIC prevention — expect a CWEng question tying these together.
3Per AWS A2.4, which symbol element indicates a weld that must be made in the field rather than in the shop?
A.A circle at the junction of the arrow and reference line
B.A flag at the junction of the arrow and reference line
C.A tail on the reference line
D.A double arrow
Explanation: AWS A2.4 specifies that a field weld is indicated by a solid flag pointing away from the reference line at the junction of the arrow and reference line. A circle at the junction indicates a weld-all-around. The tail is used for process or reference notes. Exam tip: Know the four supplementary symbols cold — field weld (flag), weld-all-around (circle), melt-through (filled rectangle), and backing/consumable insert — they appear in almost every CWEng Part 3 weld design question.
4According to ASME Section IX, when a welding procedure uses a new base metal P-Number, what action is required?
A.No action — any P-Number may be substituted freely
B.Only an update to the WPS is required
C.Requalification with a new PQR is generally required
D.Only a visual inspection of a new test plate is required
Explanation: ASME Section IX QW-424 groups base metals by P-Number based on similar weldability characteristics. A change from one P-Number to another is an essential variable for most processes (QW-403), which requires a new Procedure Qualification Record (PQR) and a revised WPS. This rule prevents assumptions that a qualified procedure on P-No. 1 carbon steel automatically covers P-No. 8 austenitic stainless. Exam tip: Memorize the common P-Numbers — P1 carbon steel, P3/P4/P5 low-alloy, P8 austenitic stainless, P41-P49 nickel alloys.
5What is the purpose of the tail on an AWS welding symbol per AWS A2.4?
A.To indicate the weld length
B.To reference a specification, process, or other supplementary information
C.To indicate the weld direction
D.To show the root opening
Explanation: The tail of an AWS A2.4 welding symbol is used to reference a specification, process, procedure number (WPS), or other supplementary information that cannot be fit in the main symbol. If no such reference is needed, the tail may be omitted. Exam tip: When a CWEng Part 3 question shows a symbol with GTAW or SAW in the tail, that is the process call-out — do not confuse it with the actual weld geometry shown on the arrow side.
6What does FCAW-G refer to in welding process nomenclature?
A.Flux-cored arc welding with external gas shielding
B.Flux-cored arc welding self-shielded
C.Flux-coated arc welding gas
D.Flux-cored arc welding globular transfer
Explanation: FCAW-G is flux-cored arc welding using an external shielding gas (typically 100% CO2 or 75/25 Ar/CO2) in addition to the flux inside the tubular wire. FCAW-S is the self-shielded variant, which relies entirely on the flux for atmospheric protection. FCAW-G typically produces lower diffusible hydrogen and better mechanical properties, while FCAW-S is favored for outdoor field work. Exam tip: Know the four-letter codes — GMAW, GTAW, SMAW, SAW, FCAW-G, FCAW-S — and one key application for each.
7In GMAW spray transfer, what is the primary factor that establishes the transition from globular to spray transfer?
A.Wire feed speed alone
B.A minimum current density (transition current) with argon-rich shielding
C.Shielding gas flow rate
D.Contact-tip-to-work distance
Explanation: Spray transfer in GMAW occurs above a specific current density known as the transition current, and it requires argon-rich shielding gas (typically at least 80% Ar). Below the transition current the process is in globular transfer; above it the metal transfers as fine droplets in a streaming arc. Pure CO2 cannot produce true spray transfer. Exam tip: Know approximate transition currents — for 0.045 inch (1.1 mm) solid carbon-steel wire in 98% Ar / 2% O2, the transition current is roughly 220-240 A.
8Which welding process uses a non-consumable tungsten electrode and an inert shielding gas?
A.SMAW
B.GTAW
C.GMAW
D.FCAW
Explanation: Gas tungsten arc welding (GTAW), also known as TIG, uses a non-consumable tungsten electrode (pure, thoriated, ceriated, or lanthanated) shielded by an inert gas such as argon or helium. Filler metal is added separately as needed. GTAW produces very high-quality welds and is the standard for root passes in pipe, thin sections, and nonferrous alloys. Exam tip: GTAW is the only common arc process with a non-consumable electrode — distractors often confuse it with GMAW, which uses a consumable wire.
9What is the approximate carbon content (by weight) of low-carbon (mild) steel?
A.Less than 0.30%
B.0.30% to 0.60%
C.0.60% to 1.00%
D.1.00% to 2.00%
Explanation: Low-carbon (mild) steels contain less than 0.30% carbon and are generally the most weldable of the plain carbon steels because they produce little martensite on cooling. Medium-carbon steels run 0.30-0.60%, high-carbon 0.60-1.00%, and above 2.00% the iron-carbon material becomes cast iron. Exam tip: The rule of thumb is that weldability decreases and preheat requirements increase as carbon content rises — expect this on CWEng Part 3 metallurgy.
10Per AWS D1.1 Table 5.8 (prequalified preheat), what is the minimum preheat for a 1-inch (25 mm) thick ASTM A36 base metal using low-hydrogen SMAW?
A.Ambient (no preheat required)
B.50 degrees F (10 degrees C)
C.150 degrees F (66 degrees C)
D.225 degrees F (107 degrees C)
Explanation: Per AWS D1.1 Table 5.8, for ASTM A36 (steel category A) in the thickness range over 3/4 inch up to and including 1-1/2 inches with low-hydrogen processes, the minimum prequalified preheat and interpass temperature is 150 degrees F (66 degrees C). Thinner sections may use 50 F; thicker sections step up to 225 F. Exam tip: Know the four thickness bands and the jump points — CWEng Part 3 and Part 4 lean heavily on reading this table.

About the CWEng Exam

The AWS Certified Welding Engineer (CWEng) is the American Welding Society's senior engineering credential, recognizing individuals who have demonstrated advanced knowledge of welding metallurgy, design of welded connections, welding processes, codes and standards, welding procedure development, NDE, and fabrication. Administered under AWS B5.16, the exam is a rigorous four-part computer-based test delivered at Prometric centers worldwide, split into closed-book science fundamentals (Parts 1 and 2) and open-book welding-specific disciplines (Parts 3 and 4). A CWEng credential positions holders for senior welding engineer roles in heavy industry, shipbuilding, aerospace, nuclear power, and oil and gas pipelines. It is substantially more rigorous than the AWS CWI and targets professionals with a four-year engineering degree and welding experience.

Questions

160 scored questions

Time Limit

10 hours total (4 parts)

Passing Score

60% each part; 70% overall weighted

Exam Fee

$665-$755 (P1-P2), $705-$795 (P3-P4) (American Welding Society (Prometric))

CWEng Exam Content Outline

35 Qs

Part 1: Fundamentals of Science and Mathematics

Mathematics (25%), Physics (50%), Chemistry (25%). Closed-book, 2 hrs. Sophomore engineering level.

25 Qs

Part 2: Applied Science and Welding Fundamentals

Strength of Materials (40%), Heat Transfer and Fluid Mechanics (30%), Electricity (30%). Closed-book, 2 hrs.

60 Qs

Part 3: Welding-Related Disciplines

Welding Heat Sources and Arc Physics 20%, Welding Processes 20%, Welding/Joint Metallurgy 20%, Weld Design 20%, NDE/Discontinuities 10%, Brazing 5%, Safety 5%. Open-book, 3 hrs.

40 Qs

Part 4: Practical Welding Engineering Applications

Fabrication 25%, Inspection 20%, Welding Procedure Qualification 20%, Filler Metals 15%, Productivity 10%, Welder Performance Qualification 10%. Open-book, 3 hrs.

How to Pass the CWEng Exam

What You Need to Know

  • Passing score: 60% each part; 70% overall weighted
  • Exam length: 160 questions
  • Time limit: 10 hours total (4 parts)
  • Exam fee: $665-$755 (P1-P2), $705-$795 (P3-P4)

Keys to Passing

  • Complete 500+ practice questions
  • Score 80%+ consistently before scheduling
  • Focus on highest-weighted sections
  • Use our AI tutor for tough concepts

CWEng Study Tips from Top Performers

1Tab your AWS D1.1 Table 5.8 (prequalified preheat) and Table 5.7 (minimum fillet weld size) — these appear on nearly every Part 3 weld design and Part 4 fabrication question. Know the category A/B/C/D material groupings cold
2Master ASME Section IX QW-253 through QW-265 essential variables for SMAW, GTAW, GMAW, and SAW. Practice determining whether a change in P-Number, F-Number, heat input, thickness, or preheat requires requalification
3Memorize heat input H = (60 * V * I) / (1000 * S) in kJ/mm and practice calculating it for any V, I, and travel speed — this formula appears in both Part 2 electricity and Part 4 WPS questions, and is tied to ASME IX QW-409 impact-tested variables
4Learn the WRC-1992 constitution diagram for stainless weld metal: Ni_eq = Ni + 35C + 20N + 0.25Cu and Cr_eq = Cr + Mo + 0.7Nb. Target FN 3-8 for austenitic welds to prevent solidification cracking while maintaining corrosion resistance
5Drill the AWS D1.1 welder qualification rules: 6G qualifies all groove positions, 1G coupon qualifies only 1G, thickness rule is 2T up to 3/4 inch and unlimited above 1 inch. These come up in Part 3 codes and Part 4 welder qualification questions

Frequently Asked Questions

What score do I need to pass the CWEng exam?

You must score 60% or greater on each of the four parts AND achieve an overall weighted average of 70% across all four parts. Failing any individual part fails that part regardless of your overall score — so you must retake that part and pass it at 60% or greater. The weighted average is calculated across Part 1 (35 Qs), Part 2 (25 Qs), Part 3 (60 Qs), and Part 4 (40 Qs), so Part 3 and Part 4 together make up 63% of the final weight and are the highest-leverage study targets.

Are the CWEng exam parts open-book or closed-book?

Parts 1 and 2 (Fundamentals and Applied Science) are CLOSED-BOOK — you may not bring references or notes. Parts 3 and 4 (Welding Disciplines and Practical Applications) are OPEN-BOOK — you may bring AWS D1.1, AWS A2.4 Welding Symbols, AWS A3.0 Welding Terms and Definitions, the Welding Handbook, ASME Section IX, and other referenced codes. All parts are computer-based at Prometric test centers. You should tab your open-book references heavily and practice with timed mocks to build lookup speed.

How hard is the CWEng exam compared with the CWI?

The CWEng is significantly more rigorous than the CWI. While the CWI focuses on visual and process knowledge at an inspection level, the CWEng tests engineering-level understanding of metallurgy, welding physics, weld design calculations, and code-based procedure development. Parts 1 and 2 require sophomore-level engineering math, physics, and mechanics. Most candidates need 400-800 hours of study across the four parts, and many take multiple attempts on Parts 1 and 2. It is designed for engineers with four-year degrees and welding experience.

What references should I master for the CWEng exam?

Critical references include AWS B5.16 (the qualification spec itself), AWS D1.1 Structural Welding Code, AWS A2.4 Welding Symbols, AWS A3.0 Welding Terms and Definitions, ASME BPVC Section IX (welding qualification), ASME BPVC Section VIII Div. 1 (pressure vessels), ASME BPVC Section II Part C (filler metals), API 1104 (pipeline welding), the AWS Welding Handbook Volumes 1-5, and a good welding metallurgy textbook (Kou or Lancaster). Tab everything you will bring to Parts 3 and 4.

What jobs can I get with a CWEng credential?

A CWEng qualifies you for senior welding engineer roles at heavy-industry employers including shipyards, aerospace OEMs, nuclear utilities, pressure vessel fabricators, pipeline companies, and offshore structure builders. Typical job titles include Welding Engineer, Senior Welding Engineer, Materials/Welding Engineer, Weld Quality Manager, and WPS Development Engineer. Salaries typically range from $95,000 to $160,000 depending on industry, location, and experience. The CWEng is also recognized on the U.S. Coast Guard's COOL credential list for military-to-civilian transition.

How should I prepare for the CWEng exam?

Start with the AWS B5.16 body of knowledge and map each topic to a reference. Review freshman/sophomore engineering math, physics, statics, and thermodynamics for Parts 1 and 2. For Parts 3 and 4, work through the AWS Welding Handbook volumes, a welding metallurgy text, and practice problems on ASME IX essential variables, AWS D1.1 preheat tables, and weld design. Build tabbed code books, run full-length timed mock exams, and expect to study 400-800 hours total. Many candidates take Parts 1 and 2 together, then Parts 3 and 4 together once passed.