What is the impact of not following the WPS in welding?

Not following the Welding Procedure Specification (WPS) significantly increases the chances of defects and failures in the weld. The WPS outlines crucial parameters such as materials, joint design, preheat and post-weld heat treatment, electrode type, welding positions, and specific techniques that should be used. Deviating from these established parameters can lead to various issues, including improper fusion, poor penetration, and thermal cycling effects that could compromise the weld integrity.

Weld defects such as cracks, porosity, or inclusions can occur when welders do not adhere to the specified techniques, affecting the overall strength and durability of the welded joint. In critical applications, such as in pipelines or structural components, the integrity of the weld is paramount; any non-compliance with the WPS could result in catastrophic failures, leading to safety hazards, costly repairs, and potentially dangerous situations for personnel and equipment.

Therefore, following the WPS helps ensure consistent, high-quality welds that meet the required engineering and safety standards.