What is the Welding Procedure Specification (WPS) used for?

• A. A record of welder performance tests.
• B. A document listing welding costs.
• C. A plan for shop safety.
• D. Documents welding parameters, materials, joints, and acceptance criteria for a weld.

Answer: (D)

A Welding Procedure Specification provides the documented plan for how to perform a weld so it meets the required code and quality standards. It specifies the welding process to use, the base metal and filler materials, the joint design and welding position, and the range of allowable conditions such as preheat, interpass temperature, and heat input. It also lays out the acceptance criteria for the finished weld, including the required nondestructive tests or visual standards and any tolerances. This combination of parameters and criteria lets welders reproduce a consistent, code-compliant weld and gives inspectors a clear basis to judge acceptability. It’s not about recording welder performance tests, listing welding costs, or outlining shop safety plans—those serve separate purposes.