Welding Documentation Guides
Practical, no-BS guides for welders, CWIs, and fabrication teams. Learn WPS, PQR, continuity, audits, and recordkeeping without the spreadsheet chaos.
What Is a WPS (Welding Procedure Specification)?
A clear, practical guide to WPS documents — what they are, why you need them, what goes in them, and common mistakes.
Read articleWhat Is a PQR (Procedure Qualification Record)?
PQR explained — the test record that proves your WPS works. What goes in it, how it relates to WPSs, and when you need a new one.
Read articleThe 6-Month Continuity Rule for Welder Qualifications
How the 6-month rule works under ASME IX and AWS D1.1 — and how to stop certs from lapsing without you noticing.
Read articlePrequalified vs. Qualified WPS — What's the Difference?
When you can skip the PQR and when you can't. Prequalified limits under D1.1 and why ASME always requires testing.
Read articleWelding Positions Explained — 1G Through 6G
Every welding position, what it means, and the qualification matrix — which test positions qualify which production positions.
Read articleHow to Pass a Welding Audit Without Losing Sleep
What auditors actually look for, the most common findings, and how to keep your documentation audit-ready at all times.
Read articleWeldPad vs. Excel — When Spreadsheets Stop Working for Welding Docs
An honest look at when Excel handles welding documentation fine, when it breaks down, and what a dedicated tool adds.
Read articleHow to Digitize Your Welding Procedures Without Losing a Weekend
Practical steps to move from paper and Excel to a digital system — what to migrate first, what to skip, and common mistakes.
Read articleASME Section IX vs. AWS D1.1 — Documentation Requirements Compared
Side-by-side comparison of prequalification, essential variables, WPQ rules, and continuity for dual-code shops.
Read articleWhat Bad Welding Documentation Actually Costs Your Shop
Lapsed continuity, failed audits, lost bids, and liability exposure — the real dollar costs of disorganized records.
Read articleStop chasing welding records and get back to the work.
Keep your WPSs, PQRs, and welder qualifications organized, searchable, and ready when the inspector shows up.