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Anybody have a/or consider getting CWI? I have been looking at a lot of supervisor jobs that want you to be a CWI. Or even for any promotion to supervisor it may be good to have a CWI? Im wondering if it is worth it to possibly give me an edge. Strange thing is for the AWS CWI it is only like a week of seminars then a test. You dont even have to be a welder. How hard can it be? I thought you had to learn how to use NDT magnetic and radiography equipment. Guess not.
Reply:CWI isn't about being a welder, that's the welder's job.  It isn't about being able to interpret NDE, that's the LII's (or LIII's) job.  CWI is about making sure that the finished product is up to code.  It often involves checking heat numbers, dimensions, surface finishes, contractor qualifications, and contract conformance *in addition* to checking welds.Depending on your comfort with the code it's either "not that difficult" or "incredibly difficult".  The test is not a walk in the park, but is perfectly doable.
Reply:That's whats confusing to me. There is a week seminar and then the test. I guess they figure then that they can teach it all in a week. I figured there would at least be several classes, or some stronger prerequisites. Are my AWS handbooks good enough for study?
Reply:If you're planning on going into the seminar cold with no experience, you will either have to work very hard at the seminar (there is much homework every night) or you will be taking the test more than once.  There is a certain amount of experience required that is not written as a prerequisite to taking the seminar.  I would put 2 years in a welding environment as a guide, if it were me.
Reply:Does twenty years experience as a welder count? I am strong with all of the manual welding processes. I can read symbols, understand and implement WPD. Other then that I have zero inspector experience and Im not even sure what to study to prepare. What did you find to be the hardest?
Reply:Check the aws.org website, they give you all the information you need as far as requirements, what to study, and cost associated with the process.  Go for it even if you pay for your self and buy the study material used to say money.  Skip the week long seminar if you feel comfortable with the material when you start studying and you will save yourself alot of money and time.  If is worth having and will open more doors to new employment options.AWS Certified Welding Inspector,certified welder (unlimited 3G/4G)NDT and Coatinge inspectionShieldarc 250Presion TIG 225Alpha 200xChop sawDrills / grindersband sawoxy/acetylene hand toolsEtc....
Reply:Thanks Josh, and Ill post the AWS CWI page for others to see too. Did you study and just take the test or did you also take the seminar? http://www.aws.org/certification/CWI/And here is what I was looking for, missed it before.http://www.aws.org/certification/endorsebok/index.htmlLast edited by Capozzoli; 01-08-2012 at 07:13 PM.
Reply:Since you are experienced, the hard part is the code.  The seminars are geared towards AWS D1.1.  You'll want a copy if you don't already have one.  I may have an old one I can loan you if you send me a PM.  After looking over the code in reference to the requirements of the test (per what Josh said), you will be ready for the seminar.  The seminars provide you with the necessary study materials.My advice, take the seminar.  The pass rate for seminar attendees is quite high.  With your experience, you should have no problem.
Reply:I just took the test and passed about 2 months ago.  I have probably 9 years experience welding, blueprint reading, and quality control.  With your experience you will do fine as long as you take the seminar, leave your ego at home (not saying you have one, just be open to knowledge), do the home work just as the instructor tells you to, and don't be intimidated by the test.  I studied prior to the seminar, took the seminar, and passed the general knowledge with a 92, the part b (practical) with a 96, and the code with a 96.  The code was the most intimidating, and you will spend most of your time tabbing and highlighting it.  Get comfortable with its navigation!  I can go on and on about this test, but im on my phone and my thumbs are burning.  Let me know if you like more info.Jay DavisAWS-CWIC-60 Specialty Welding ContractorLoving husband, and father of two boys (
Reply:Thanks so much guys, you are really bringing this into focus for me. Maybe I should pick some of these publications to study? Which ones would you guys recommend? AWS - RECOMMENDED SELF-STUDYExamination Preparatory MaterialAWS Publications Order NumberCertification Manual for Welding Inspectors CM: 2000Welding Inspection Handbook WI: 2000* D1.1/D1.1M Structural Welding Code-Steel D1.1/D1.1M: 2010* D1.1 Code Clinic Reference Manual D1.1CCRM: 2008* API 1104 Study Guide for API Standard 1104 Welding of Pipelines API-M: 2008* Welding Inspection Technology WIT-T-2008* Welding Inspection Technology (Workbook) WIT-W: 2008* Welding Inspection Technology Sample CWI Fundamentals Examination & Key WIT-E: 2008* Standard Welding Terms and Definitions A3.OM/A3.0:2010* Standard Symbols for Welding, Brazing, and Nondestructive Examination A2.4: 2007* Visual Inspection Workshop Reference Manual VIW-M: 2008* Guide for the Nondestructive Examination of Welds B1.10M/B1.10:2009Book of Specification for the Qualification of Welding Inspectors (errata 2007) B5.1: 2003* Books are provided to participants at the AWS SeminarsOh, and I didnt mean to sound cocky in my original post by implying that it is easy. It just (at first glance) didnt seem like enough to just go to a seminar. I just figured there would be more classes that I couldn't find. Im sure it isn't easy.Last edited by Capozzoli; 01-08-2012 at 11:44 PM.Welding everything, from the crack of dawn to a broken heart.
Reply:All those publications listed you will be provided at the seminar.  I was able to borrow someones Welding Inspection Technology Handbook (WIT) and the practice tests for the general knowledge.  It was useful, because even though I had been welding and been around welding, I had not been exposed to some of the semi-exotic welding processes (Electroslag, Electron beam, etc) and they do test you on that knowledge.  Even though you are provided the publications at the seminar, if you had access, this is what I would recommend to study prior to the seminar.  You WILL go over this in the seminar however.  - The code you wish to test to (I recommend D1.1 even though it is 4 times thicker than API 1104, it is indexed and well organized)- The Code Clinic handbook and practice tests.  This helps breakdown the questions they are asking and help identify the section it is refering to.For example:  "A drawing specifies a 3/8 inch fillet weld for a particular weld joint.  What size fillet weld is necessary if a 1/8 inch root opening exists between two faying surfaces prior to welding?"If you had to choose which section would you find the answer in?  Structural Welding Code, Design, Prequalification of WPSs, Qualifications, Fabrication, Inspection, Stud welding, or Strengthening and Repairing?Well the question centers around the actual application of welding, so Section 5 Fabrication would be my first flip.  (Actually I would go to the index and search Fillet, and look for anything referencing section 5)The answer is 1/2 inch, any root opening over 1/16th and the total root opening dimension needs to be added to the fillet weld leg dimension..- Welding Inspection Technology and practice tests- Part B: Specifications (Available free on the AWS website), you need to know how to navigate.  It's like a mini-code book.Again, I would see if you can borrow these from someone.  Because you will be provided these the first day of the seminar, it would be a shame to spend the 600-700 dollars on them seperately only to have duplicates.  D1.1 itself is 400.00.  If you can, get a 2008 from someone.  You just need it to starting navigating and understanding what the different sections cover and relate to one another.The seminar, including after class homework equated to 12 - 16 hours days of non-stop cramming.  Is it easy? No.  Is it insurmountable?  Absolultely Not!  It's just an application of will power.  The hard part is after you pass and become a CWI and how you apply it.  I was very proud that I passed and a fellow CWI, a man I consider my mentor told me: "Congratulations, your literate.  That test proved that you can read."  Two of the three tests, you have the answers in front of you, you just have to find them.  As a CWI I should never rely in my KNOWLEDGE of the code, like I am some expert, because no man can KNOW everything about welding, but I need to know how to research, reference, and apply the code properly and without ego.  Again, I could go on and on about preparing for this test.  It's pretty fresh in my mind so if you have any questions, fire away.  What area of welding are you currently in?  What processes are you strongest in?  Weakest?  It's a total of 6 hours of testing.  Three 2-hour tests.  It takes about 9 hours with sign-in, breaks etc to finish them.  Of the three tests, 2 of them you have the answer in front of you (Part B practical, and the code portion) you just need to find the answers.  The code is generaly 50 questions and two hours, that equates to little over 2 minutes per question to find in a 600 page book.  They are tricky and will do so on purpose.  NO ONE walks out that test thinking to themselves "I kicked that tests ***!!!", I did pretty well and was unsure if I passed, and had to wait 3 weeks to find out.  I was just hoping to beat the 72% mark and make it.  Hope this helps you or anyone else considering it.  I paid 2300+ dollars to do it, and was glad I did.Jay DavisAWS-CWIC-60 Specialty Welding ContractorLoving husband, and father of two boys (
Reply:The prep course is actually a "refresher" course. It is not meant to "teach" someone to be a CWI.You have received good advice here and you will find an abundance of helpful info on the AWS Forum. Unless you are working for a company that is asking you to test to a code that is applicable to what they do, test to AWS D1.1 you will be better off for it in the long run. Remember, at this point in time it does not matter what code you test to. There are also endorsements that you can acquire. For example, if you test to AWS D1.1 you could then take the API 1104 endorsement or vice versa. Good luck,jrw159
Reply:Thanks,The test is here in July and Aug. so I think I have some time to study. Im just still wondering what from that list to order and study. Obviously the d1-1 codes but Im wondering what else would be good. Guess it wouldn't make sense to purchase all of them because they will be included in the price of the seminar.Welding everything, from the crack of dawn to a broken heart.
Reply:It is not easy, if you are good at taking test.  If you don't do well with test, it can be near impossible.  The only things I studied before the seminar were the code book and Welding Inspection Technology.  I would recommend studying the WIT a lot for the general knowledge.  Get familiar with code navigation, and the fine print.  There are many questions that the fine print is key.  As far as the practical test, just remember that the maximum allowable is still acceptable.  Take the coupons for what they are, and you should be fine.  It really isn't that bad now, as I think you can just retake the section you failed (I am not certain of this, as a lot has changed in the 7 years since I took it).
Reply:I would say my test taking skills are pretty good. My reading comprehension is pretty strong too. Im more a shop guy then a desk guy so some of the things you guys are saying is a little hard for me to understand. Excuse me if these questions are dumb.  I just went through the D1.1 and DAMN. If I have to memorize all of that I am doomed. Im not sure what maximum allowable is still acceptable means? Take the coupons for what they are? Is that the little plastic 'weld specimens' for gauging or something? The certification is good for three years, how is it maintained? Do you have to retest?Last edited by Capozzoli; 01-09-2012 at 07:16 PM.Welding everything, from the crack of dawn to a broken heart.
Reply:Don't try to memorize the code.  The test is to verify you can find the answer.  You should memorize the sections, because that will help you find the answer.  The code test is open book.  If the code allows 1/2" of porosity in 3" of weld, and you measure 1/2"of porosity in 3"of weld, it is acceptable.  Yes, the coupons are the plastic specimens.  Your 3 and 6 year renewal just require verification of cwi related work and sending them more money.  The 9 year is the big one with lots of options.  You can retest for a scwi, go to a seminar for a few days, or take a code endorsement test.  There are other options for the 9 year recert, but those are the most common.
Reply:If I can add...I've been a CWI for about 25 years.  There are good job opportunities available for good inspectors.  I think a very important aspect of being an inspector is the ability to be objective. (Stick to the code!!)  If memory serves me, the test has a 50% failure rate.  The test being in 3 parts, theory, practical & code.  Most b people fail the code because they are not familiar with the code.  The clinic uses the D1.1, but you can test to other less complicated code books. Many applicants test on the API1104 which by comparison is a pamphlet compared to the D1.1My advice is to embrace the "inspector" position.  Most welders have an "US" against "THEM" attitude regarding inspectors.  Use your welding experience to help you understand the inspector's role in the industry.Remember, that "ALL" codes establish the "MINIMUM" acceptable quality permitted.  Most welders I encounter, claim the code is too strict.  So don't be a welder, don't be an engineer - be an Inspector!  Which means verify the work complies with the code!Weldtek
Reply:Thanks weldtek, that is great advice, and working in construction I fully understand the 'Us' against 'Them' scenario. Damn inspectors! Here is a question, How; to employers, does CWI look on a resume? Say when applying for welders position in a ship yard or as a pipe welder for example? Im pretty sure it will look good for a supervisors position. Im not necessarily looking to become an inspector. I want to continue education and make my self more salable to the more advanced positions.Welding everything, from the crack of dawn to a broken heart.
Reply:It is tough to say.  It could hurt your chances because you could be a threat, or a pain in the butt argumentative know it all welder.  In the ship yard and pipe welding setting they are looking for bodies that can make an acceptable weld, not brains.  On the other hand, the extra knowledge could help you especially if they are looking for a supervisor position.  I have seen it go both ways.  I can also tell you that a cwi without experience inspecting isn't really a strong asset to a company.  I am not trying to crap you out.  Being a cwi is a good thing, but is not a magic job wand as some people would lead you to believeI do know it has helped me in a lot of ways.  I became a cwi in 2005, I was 22 at the time.  I have inspected structural, pipe, pressure vessels, gas plants, nitrogen plants, food processing,as third party and QA/QC.  I am currently back to welding, as I grew tired of paperwork and watching people work.Last edited by MCFLYFYTER; 01-10-2012 at 01:40 AM.
Reply:Ok you are getting tons of great information here regarding the CWI, and you might be thinking to yourself "what the heck did I get myself into here".  Lets break the tests down and how you can prepare before the seminar, and how the seminar will prepare you.  I will make assumptions as to your knowledge.Part A - General Knowledge - You have probably 70-80% of what you need in your head right now.  Which means with a little luck, and proper judgement you would pass this portion of the test right now.  You probably only need to a brush up on the major processes.  The seminar will take you the rest of the way.  3 of the 6 day seminar coveres this part.150 question, you need 72% - you can miss 42 questions and pass.Part B - Book of Specs-  Download this free from the AWS website.  This is a mini-code book.  When you take this portion of the test they will have some general questions on NDE, which you will cover in the seminar.  They will have you judge some plastic welds and how the Book of Specs relates to them, which means forget what you know about D1.1 and find the answer in the Book!  They are testing your ability to reference code, not your knoweldge of the code.  In regards to the plastic weld samples: they drill holes in the welds to simulate porosity.  The holes used are 1/32th, 1/16th, and 1/8th.  Dont go crazy with calipers,  just add it all up.Also, don't freak on the math, you can bring a calculator and the formulas are in the test booklet.  Just get comfortable with them.  1 day of the seminar is dedicated to this part of the test.46 questions, you need 72% - you can miss 12 and pass (or 13 depending on how they round.)Part C - Code- Ok this is where I want to change my answer.  If you get two books before you go to the seminar it would these.  1.  Borrow a 2010 D1.1,  2.  Buy the Code Clinic.  Yes the book is 600 pages, in the seminar your instructer will narrow that down to about 280 pages that you will need to be comfortable with.  He will also show you how to tab your book.  (We can help you here as well.)  See photo of my tabbed D1.1.  Again, this is testing you on how you can reference the code, not know it.  The index is your buddy.  I wrote a lot of notes in the index because the index is not perfect and if I thought a certain question was not easily reference in the index, I wrote the keyword and the area it could be found, in the index.  There are 3 practice tests in the Code Clinic.  my advice:  Use your will power and only look at the first 2 practice tests before the seminar.  DO NOT EVEN LOOK AT THE THIRD TEST.  Take the seminar, hone your ability to navigate the code and then a couple days before the test, use the the third practice test as a litmus on how well you are doing.  Time yourself on all tests.  2 days of the seminar are dedicated to this portion of the test.  Tabbing, navigation, how the sections relate, how to dissect a question and find out what it is really asking.  50 questions, you need 72% - you can miss 14 and pass.There are a lot of test taking tips as well.  The seminar will cover those.If for no other reason, the CWI will give you a great respect for how DEEP the welding industry really is.  Your 20 years will seem like a very narrow view into this industry when you get done.  That's not to say you don't have a lot of knowledge or experience, thats saying how big it really is.  You'll have a better grasp of how much you have yet to learn, lets put it that way.Hope this helps.  My fingers are bleeding. Attached ImagesJay DavisAWS-CWIC-60 Specialty Welding ContractorLoving husband, and father of two boys (
Reply:Jay, first, thanks so much for taking the time to type all this out to help me. and to all of you guys, I am humbled by your willingness to help others. I can only hope to contribute here as much as you guys are. I also hope the info posted here is valuable to others. Im really stating to understand what is involved with this test where before it was confusing. Im pretty sure that I want to go for it. My only hurdles now will be the studying and the money for the test. Im hoping work picks up a little before july so that I can get this paid for. I also have to re-up my AWS mebership, I let it slide for a couple of years now, I hope they will forgive me. Also have to get to a show, what is it now fab-tech? Wonder where the next one is. The last one I went to was in ST. Louis. Home of the Greatest SS fabrication in the world.Welding everything, from the crack of dawn to a broken heart.
Reply:All very good information.....the one area that was a concern to me was learning all of the welding symbols. I have been a welder for 24 yrs but was not subjected to all of the symbols. They will cover what percentage each area will account towards your grade. Take the class its worth it. You'll get alot of good notes that you can fall back on later. Oh, and to clear something up......the SrCWI will require you to oversee a number of CWI's before taking that exam.....not just holding a CWI certification for 9 yrs. Just your information.A young green pipe welder asked an old salt one day...How can I make the weld on the bottom of the pipe look like the top.......The old salt replied....Screw up the top......
Reply:Originally Posted by CapozzoliThanks,The test is here in July and Aug. so I think I have some time to study. Im just still wondering what from that list to order and study. Obviously the d1-1 codes but Im wondering what else would be good. Guess it wouldn't make sense to purchase all of them because they will be included in the price of the seminar.
Reply:Originally Posted by CapozzoliThanks Josh, and Ill post the AWS CWI page for others to see too. Did you study and just take the test or did you also take the seminar? http://www.aws.org/certification/CWI/And here is what I was looking for, missed it before.http://www.aws.org/certification/endorsebok/index.html
Reply:Hi Guys-I've been a CWI since I was 25. I'll be 36 shortly... It was a great (yet frustrating) move for me. It's not for everyone. If you're a QC tech; you'll be possibly hurting some people's pride. As a young inspector, my findings of non-conformance where often viewed as an insult from a punk kid. I've seen more seasoned inspectors with worse results. I guess it's all in how well you handle people.If you're representing a customer, people will do whatever it takes to make you happy within reason. If you're a hard *** and try to make their lives hard to serve you're ego; they'll try to get you fired, and even frame you to do it.If you're a supervisor with a CWI, you'd better know you're stuff because you'll immediately be considered an expert. And you'll often get that "what do you mean you don't know?" look when you get blindsided with a technical question.I like being a CWI. It's become part of who I am. It's the best way to make Bachelor's Degree money and have a management position on a shoestring budget.Good Luck.LaunceInteresting comments. I want to do it to advance my knowledge of welding mostly. Plus when inspectors go up my *** I can turn around and say, Oh Yeah well...... J/KI dont know though, I am practicing pipe tests now and my plate is really full with the running/planning the shut down of a business. Might not be able to study for this in time to take the test in July. But if the wind were at my back perhaps I will.Welding everything, from the crack of dawn to a broken heart.
Reply:Thats funny you say that......I thought the same way when I was going through my CWI testing....how I'm going to stick it to all the inspectors for harrassing me all these years.....then once I read the codes.....I agree with them!!!!!! A young green pipe welder asked an old salt one day...How can I make the weld on the bottom of the pipe look like the top.......The old salt replied....Screw up the top......
Reply:ive got plenty of study material for the CWI exam for anyone interested in taking it.... as well as nearly every code book or reference manual pertaining to steel inspection... contact me through email @ [email protected]
Reply:email sent!Lincoln Idealarc Tig 300/300, Lincoln ranger 8, Lincoln LN-25, Miller Sidekick (keeps rockin!), Oxy/Acy torch, Miller XMT-304 with a Miller 60 series wire feeder and high freq. box, Profax positioner 8" chuck, Aaronson 3500# positioner 15" chuck