Introduction
In industries where welding quality and consistency are critical, validated welding procedures are essential to ensure structural safety and product reliability. Welding Procedure Qualification Record (WPQR) Certification confirms that a specific welding procedure has been tested, verified, and approved according to recognized international standards.
What is WPQR Certification?
WPQR (Welding Procedure Qualification Record) is a formal document that records all essential variables and results of a test weld performed to demonstrate that a particular Welding Procedure Specification (WPS) can produce welds meeting the required mechanical and quality standards.
It is an integral part of welding quality assurance systems and is typically conducted in compliance with standards such as:
EN ISO 15614 series
ASME Section IX
AWS D1.1
EN 288
A certified WPQR ensures that the welding procedure used in production is capable of consistently producing sound, defect-free welds that meet the necessary strength and quality requirements.
Scope
WPQR Certification applies to manufacturers, fabricators, and contractors involved in:
Structural Steel Fabrication
Pressure Vessels and Boilers
Oil Gas and Pipeline Projects
Shipbuilding and Offshore Structures
Aerospace, Automotive, and Heavy Engineering
Key Requirements
Preparation and testing of a test weld according to WPS
Mechanical testing such as tensile, bend, and impact tests
Non-Destructive Testing (NDT) for defect evaluation
Review and verification by an accredited inspection body or Notified Body
Preparation and approval of WPQR documentation
Benefits of Certification
Verifies welding procedure reliability and compliance
Ensures weld quality and structural integrity
Reduces production errors and rework
Enhances customer confidence and regulatory acceptance
Demonstrates conformity with international welding standards
Supports CE marking under EN 1090 and PED directives
Industries That Benefit
Construction and Structural Engineering
Oil Gas and Petrochemical Fabrication
Shipbuilding and Offshore Engineering
Power Generation and Energy Plants
Heavy Equipment and Industrial Manufacturing
Conclusion
WPQR Certification provides documented evidence that a welding procedure is capable of producing welds with the required quality and mechanical strength. It plays a crucial role in ensuring compliance, reliability, and safety across industries where welding is a key process.
