Qualification Test Practice Exam Questions

AWS Certified Welder (CW) Performance Qualification Test Practice Exam Questions And Correct Answers (Verified Answers) Plus Rationales 2026 Q&A | Instant Download Pdf

• Which welding process is most commonly used in the CW test?

a) Oxy-fuel welding

b) GTAW (TIG)

c) SMAW (Stick welding)

d) GMAW (MIG)

Rationale: SMAW is widely used in the CW test due to its versatility

and ability to handle various positions.

• What type of electrode is typically used for welding carbon steel in the

CW test?

a) E6010

b) E7018 1 / 4

c) E308L

d) E309L

Rationale: E7018 electrodes are low-hydrogen, providing strong,

crack-resistant welds, ideal for qualification tests.

3. When performing a fillet weld, the size of the weld is measured from:

a) The root of the joint

b) The throat of the weld

c) The surface of the base metal

d) The center of the electrode

Rationale: The throat measurement ensures the weld has sufficient

penetration and strength.

• In welding procedure qualification, what is the primary purpose of a

test coupon?

a) To practice technique

b) To demonstrate that a weld meets code requirements

c) To store material for later use

d) To measure electrode wear

Rationale: Test coupons provide a controlled sample to confirm

compliance with welding specifications.

• What is the acceptable maximum weld reinforcement for SMAW fillet

welds per AWS D1.1?

• 1/4 inch
• 1/8 inch 2 / 4

• 3/16 inch
• 1/16 inch

Rationale: Excessive reinforcement can reduce weld strength and is

outside code limits.

6. Preheat is required when welding:

a) Stainless steel only

b) Low carbon steel with thickness over 1 inch

c) Aluminum only

d) Copper

Rationale: Preheating prevents rapid cooling and cracking in thick

carbon steel.

• Which of the following positions is used in the CW test?

a) Flat only

b) Horizontal only

c) Multiple positions including flat, horizontal, vertical, and overhead

d) Vertical down only

Rationale: The CW test evaluates welder skill in multiple positions.

• What is the recommended electrode angle for a fillet weld in the flat

position?

• 90 degrees
• 75 degrees
• 45 degrees
• 60 degrees 3 / 4

Rationale: A 45-degree angle promotes proper fusion and

penetration in fillet welds.

9. During welding, porosity in the bead is usually caused by:

a) Low amperage

b) Contamination such as oil, rust, or moisture

c) High travel speed

d) Using a short arc

Rationale: Contaminants create gas pockets in the weld, resulting in

porosity.

• Which destructive test is commonly used to evaluate welds in

the CW test?

a) Radiography

b) Ultrasonic testing

c) Bend test

d) Magnetic particle inspection

Rationale: Bend tests physically demonstrate weld ductility and

fusion by bending the welded coupon.

• Which welding position is the most difficult for SMAW?

a) Flat

b) Horizontal

c) Overhead

d) Vertical-up

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