i—Welding Inspection Technology 2020 (Informative Paper)
8. Radiographic testing (RT)
- Uses X-ray or gamma-ray to view internal structure and detect volumetric defects.
- Films or digital detectors capture images; interpretation reveals porosity, slag, incomplete fusion, and cracks.
- Advantages: permanent record, good detection of volumetric defects.
- Limitations: radiation safety requirements, access to both sides of weld desirable for through-transmission-like setups, decreased sensitivity to planar defects oriented parallel to beam, higher cost; digital radiography (DR) and computed radiography (CR) increasingly replaced film by 2020.
15. Common challenges and mitigation
- Access constraints for RT and UT — design for inspection and use alternative methods (PAUT, TOFD, PT, MT).
- Interpretation variability — use experienced inspectors, calibration standards, and dual-reading in critical cases.
- Environmental constraints — temperature, surface condition, radiation controls; use appropriate method adaptations.
- Keeping up with new tech — regular training and pilot programs for PAUT, DR, robotic NDT.
Abstract
This paper summarizes welding inspection technologies and best practices current as of 2020, covering visual inspection, non-destructive testing (NDT) methods, digital/automated inspection advances, standards and codes, qualification and certification, common defects and acceptance criteria, and recommendations for implementation in industrial settings.
What is the AWS WI-I Welding Inspection Technology (2020 Edition)?
The AWS WI-I:2020 is a 600+ page training manual designed specifically for the CWI Part A (Fundamentals) and Part B (Practical) examinations. Unlike general welding textbooks, the WI-I focuses exclusively on inspection criteria, including:
- Welding discontinuities and their causes
- Visual inspection principles
- Nondestructive examination (NDE) methods: UT, RT, MT, PT, ET
- Weld and base metal terminology
- Mechanical testing for inspectors
- Code applications and acceptance criteria
The 2020 edition introduced new sections on advanced high-strength steels, laser welding inspection, and digital record-keeping – topics not covered in depth in earlier PDFs floating online.
16. Recommendations (practical)
- Use a layered approach: start with thorough VT, follow with PT/MT for surface-critical welds, and PAUT/RT for volumetric inspection on critical joints.
- Adopt PAUT + TOFD for reliable volumetric inspection and better sizing where accessible.
- Implement digital recording and weld traceability (QR/barcode + cloud records).
- Train and certify personnel to recognized schemes (ASNT, CSWIP/PCN, or employer-specific per code).
- Incorporate risk-based inspection to focus resources on highest-impact welds.
- Pilot automation (scanners/robotic arms) for repetitive or large-scale weld inspection to improve consistency and throughput.
13. Inspection planning and strategy
- Risk-based inspection: prioritize critical welds, high-stress regions, and safety-critical systems.
- Sampling plans: 100% visual inspection commonly required; volumetric or surface NDT based on code, criticality, and historical defect rates.
- Documentation: inspection plans, hold points, NDT reports, weld maps, and traceable records.
- Access and fit-up considerations: design for inspectability (access for probes, cameras, or radiography).
Write-Up: Welding Inspection Technology, 2020 Edition (eBook/PDF)
Overview
The Welding Inspection Technology, 2020 Edition PDF serves as the definitive digital resource for individuals preparing for the AWS Certified Welding Inspector (CWI) exam or seeking a comprehensive refresher in modern welding inspection principles. Developed directly from the American Welding Society’s official body of knowledge, this edition aligns with the latest industry codes, standards, and nondestructive examination (NDE) practices.
Key Content Areas
- Welding Processes & Applications – Detailed coverage of SMAW, GMAW, FCAW, GTAW, SAW, and high-energy processes, including process variables, limitations, and typical discontinuities.
- Metal Joining & Cutting – Metallurgy basics, heat input effects, base metal classification, and thermal cutting methods.
- Welding Discontinuities & Defects – Visual identification, root causes, and acceptance criteria per AWS D1.1, API 1104, and ASME Section IX.
- Inspection & NDE Methods – Principles of VT, PT, MT, UT, and RT, including advantages, limitations, and practical application scenarios.
- Codes, Standards, & Contractual Documents – How to navigate welding procedure specifications (WPS), procedure qualification records (PQR), and welder performance qualifications.
- Safety & Measurement Tools – Inspection instruments (bridge cams, fillet gauges, Hi-Lo gauges) and job-site safety practices.
What’s New in the 2020 Edition
- Updated references to AWS B5.1 (CWI qualification requirements)
- Expanded section on phased array UT and digital radiography
- Revised discontinuities tables to reflect current acceptance criteria
- Additional practice questions and case studies mirroring the latest CWI exam format
Who Should Use This PDF
- CWI candidates – Primary study reference for Part A (Fundamentals), Part B (Practical), and Part C (Code Application)
- Welding inspectors, QC/QA personnel, and engineers – Day-to-day technical guide
- Vocational instructors & training programs – Ready-to-use curriculum foundation
Format & Accessibility
The 2020 PDF is fully searchable, bookmarked by chapter, and compatible with desktops, tablets, and e-readers. It includes high-resolution diagrams, sample inspection forms, and a glossary of over 500 welding/inspection terms.
Why Choose the 2020 Edition?
While earlier editions remain useful, the 2020 PDF captures critical updates in NDE technology, code changes, and industry terminology—ensuring that inspectors study from the most current, exam-relevant material available.
The American Welding Society (AWS) Welding Inspection Technology (WIT-T:2020) guide is the primary text for Part A of the Certified Welding Inspector (CWI) exam, covering 10 chapters on inspection, safety, processes, and metallurgy. It is designed to establish foundational knowledge for inspectors, with accompanying workbook exercises available for exam preparation. Purchase the guide at the AWS Bookstore. WIT-T:2020 Welding Inspection Technology
The WIT-T:2020 Welding Inspection Technology manual is the cornerstone for anyone pursuing the AWS Certified Welding Inspector (CWI) credential. This 2020 edition, also known as the Sixth Edition, is specifically designed to prepare candidates for Part A (Fundamentals) of the CWI exam, which covers the essential theoretical knowledge required for modern inspection. Key Topics in the 2020 Edition
The manual provides a broad overview of the critical job aspects for both novice and experienced inspectors. Its chapters are structured to follow the logical progression of inspection duties: Certified Welding Inspector (CWI) Certification | AWS