Qualification Test Practice Exam

ASME Section IX Welding Performance Qualification Test Practice Exam Questions And Correct Answers (Verified Answers) Plus Rationales 2026 Q&A | Instant Download Pdf

• What is the primary purpose of a welding procedure specification

(WPS)?

• To satisfy the inspector
• To provide detailed welding instructions to ensure repeatable

quality

• To document welder attendance
• To list consumable suppliers

Rationale: The WPS provides the necessary parameters and guidance

for producing welds that meet the required mechanical and quality standards. 1 / 4

• Which essential variable in ASME Section IX affects weld strength?
• Electrode color
• Welding current
• Operator height
• Ambient temperature

Rationale: Essential variables, such as welding current, affect the

weld’s mechanical properties and cannot be changed without requalification.

• When is a welder required to requalify according to ASME Section IX?
• Every six months
• When changing an essential variable
• After welding 100 pieces
• When changing the job site

Rationale: Requalification is necessary when any essential variable

that impacts the weld’s quality is changed.

• Which type of welding joint is commonly used in ASME Section IX

performance tests?

• Corner joint
• Butt joint
• Edge joint
• Lap joint

Rationale: Butt joints are frequently used in qualification tests 2 / 4

because they provide a clear assessment of weld quality and mechanical properties.

• What is the maximum thickness that can be welded without preheat

for carbon steel per ASME Section IX?

• 1/2 inch
• 3/8 inch
• 1 inch
• 1/4 inch

Rationale: ASME Section IX provides preheat requirements based on

base metal thickness and carbon content; 3/8 inch is the threshold for many common carbon steels.

• What is a performance qualification test?
• A theoretical exam
• A practical test to demonstrate a welder’s ability to produce

acceptable welds

• A safety audit
• A WPS review

Rationale: Performance qualification tests verify that the welder can

produce welds that meet code requirements under specified conditions.

• Which process is covered under ASME Section IX?
• Powder coating
• Shielded Metal Arc Welding (SMAW) 3 / 4

• Anodizing
• Plasma cutting

Rationale: Section IX provides rules for welder and procedure

qualification for various welding processes, including SMAW.

• What does the term “essential variable” refer to?
• Variables that make the job easier
• Variables that affect the mechanical properties of the weld
• Variables that only affect appearance
• Non-critical parameters

Rationale: Essential variables directly influence the weld's structural

integrity, and changing them requires requalification.

• What is the typical test coupon shape for groove weld performance

qualification?

• Circular plate
• Plate butt joint
• Tubular joint
• Corner lap

Rationale: Groove weld coupons are usually butt joint plates because

they allow for standardized testing of weld penetration, strength, and soundness.

• When qualifying a welder for fillet welds, which specimen is

generally used?

• Butt weld coupon
• / 4