Alberta is home to robust industries, such as oil & gas, pulp & paper, power generation, and pipelines, with an impressive amount of pressure equipment. These vessels must be constructed, altered, and repaired using the skillful hand of welders. However, not just any welder can weld on pressure equipment in Alberta.
Who Regulates Pressure Welders in Alberta?
The Alberta Boiler Safety Association, also known as ABSA, regulates pressure welders under the Safety Codes Act and Pressure Welders Regulation. Albertan welders must first demonstrate that they have the skills and knowledge necessary to perform pressure welding and then acquire a Certificate of Competency from ABSA.
What is a Performance Qualification Test?
Following this, certified pressure welders take a performance qualification test to demonstrate that they can pressure weld according to certain conditions described in a welding procedure. A performance qualification test has three main ingredients: a welder, an ABSA Welding Examiner, and an ABSA-registered welding procedure.
The welder performs the qualification test according to the guidelines of the registered welding procedure. The Welding Examiner ensures that the welder produces a weld that satisfies the procedure in terms of process, material, and quality. This is confirmed through visual inspection by the examiner and mechanical testing (bend) or volumetric testing (radiographic, etc.). If the welder passes the test, the examiner issues them a welding performance qualification record and card that describes the conditions under which the welder is qualified to pressure weld.
Acuren Edmonton’s Welding Qualification Services
Acuren Edmonton is proud to offer a new welding performance qualification service line to serve individual welders and clients with welders on their team. At Acuren, testing and inspection is our bread and butter, with engineering services rounding out our incredible ability to meet industry needs. Our Acuren Edmonton location boasts reliable, industry-respected materials testing and welding engineering solutions which our new service line is built on.
On-Site Testing for Added Convenience
Can’t come to the Acuren Edmonton location? No problem! Our team is happy to come to you and provide examinations at your facility. Our number one goal is to provide easy-to-access and reliable welder testing that keeps you qualified and ready to work.
Strengthening Alberta’s Pressure Welding Industry
Acuren is excited to offer this new service to Alberta pressure welders and continue to create a stronger, safer Alberta with ABSA. From the moment the test begins to when you walk away with a performance qualification card in hand, the Acuren Edmonton team is dedicated to ensuring your qualification is a great experience.
Ready to get started? Contact our team today!
