Welder Qualification Test Description

6GR FCAW + 2” GTAW Super Coupon

Pay Rate: $32/hr

Pay Structure: Split $15/hr base pay + $17/hr per diem

Position Overview

We are seeking highly skilled structural and pipe welders to qualify through a two-part welding test process:

• 6GR Flux-Cored Arc Welding (FCAW) Pipe Test

• 2-inch “Super Coupon” Gas Tungsten Arc Welding (GTAW/TIG) Pipe Test

These qualification tests validate the welder’s ability to perform advanced welding in restricted positions consistent with industrial, energy, and offshore fabrication standards.

Successful completion of both tests is required for placement.

Qualification Test #1

6GR Pipe Welding Test – FCAW (Flux Core), Root Through Cap

Test Description

The 6GR welding test is a fixed-position pipe test set at a 45-degree angle with a restricting ring or obstruction. The pipe is not rotated and requires welding through all positions including horizontal, vertical, and overhead.

Welding Process

• Process: Flux-Cored Arc Welding (FCAW)

• Shielding: Gas-shielded flux core (FCAW-G)

• Position: 6GR (fixed, restricted)

• Progression: Vertical up

• Passes: Root, hot pass, fill passes, and cap

Skills Being Evaluated

• Root penetration and fusion control using FCAW

• Ability to weld in restricted access conditions

• Heat control and bead placement through multiple positions

• Tie-ins, restarts, and consistency from root to cap

• Proper cap profile, uniformity, and defect-free finish

Inspection Criteria

• Visual inspection for profile, undercut, overlap, and discontinuities

• Destructive or non-destructive testing as required

• Welds must meet applicable code and project acceptance standards

Qualification Test #2

2-Inch “Super Coupon” Pipe Test – GTAW (TIG), Root Through Cap

Test Description

Upon passing the 6GR FCAW test, welders will complete a 2-inch Super Coupon pipe test using GTAW (TIG) for all passes. This test verifies precision welding skills on small-diameter pipe.

Welding Process

• Process: Gas Tungsten Arc Welding (GTAW/TIG)

• Pipe Size: 2-inch

• Position: Fixed (typically 6G configuration)

• Passes: TIG root, hot pass, fill passes, and cap

Skills Being Evaluated

• Precise puddle control and penetration

• Consistent internal root quality

• Heat input management to prevent burn-through

• Clean bead appearance and uniform cap profile

• High-level attention to detail

Inspection Criteria

• Visual inspection and internal root verification

• Additional testing per client or code requirements

• Weld must demonstrate sound fusion and cosmetic quality

Welder Expectations

• Ability to read and follow welding procedures

• Independent equipment setup

• Professional conduct and safe work practices

• Completion within allotted timeframes

• Production of code-quality welds without assistance

Summary

This qualification process is intended for experienced, upper-tier welders. Successful completion of both the 6GR FCAW and 2-inch GTAW Super Coupon tests is required for qualification.