WELDING GUIDELINES AND CERTIFICATION

(Orlando, FL, October 24, 2000) - At a recent conference hosted by the American Welding Society (AWS) G1A Subcommittee on Hot Gas and Extrusion Welding of Thermoplastics, the DVS (German Welding Society) presented their newly translated guidelines for thermoplastics welding. A prestigious panel of thirteen speakers covered a variety of topics including welding of pipe and sheet, hot air welding, extrusion welding, heated element welding, testing of welded joints, design calculations for containers and apparatus, and heated tool butt welding. The comprehensive guidelines also addressed the requirements for welding machines and equipment and design calculations for containers and apparatus.

The over 150 attendees represented all aspects of the industry from plastic fabricators to end users. Twenty-one exhibitors were also showcased at an exhibition held in conjunction with the two-day conference.

The DVS guidelines are being used by the AWS to help develop standards for the United States. If the AWS mirrors the DVS, annual certifications could be earned for each material welded (PP, PE, PVC) by individual welding method (hot gas, extrusion). Under the DVS guidelines, if a certified welder does not maintain their certification by actively welding the certified material/method for a period of six months, certification would expire. Certification could also be extended one year based on inspection and testing of welds made by the certified welder.

The AWS is currently in the final stages of developing their first standard. They are also developing education programs, and training and certification for inspectors. Welding standards and certification are important especially in light of some of the materials contained and transported in fabricated plastic structures and lined vehicles. However, given the broad range of plastic welding today, not all jobs would require a certified welder. The guidelines can, however, be used in the design stages and welding of non-certified jobs. Those jobs that do require a certified welder should include an upcharge that would be passed on to the customer.

For more information, contact the American Welding Society at 305-443-9353. There are also a limited number of CD-ROM's with the translated DVS guidelines available through Wegener N.A. at 630-789-0990.