What do Weld Procedure Specifications provide?

Weld Procedure Specifications (WPS) are essential documents in the welding process because they provide detailed directions for accomplishing a specific weld. This includes information such as the type of materials to be joined, the welding process to be used, joint design, preheat and post-weld heat treatment requirements, as well as parameters like voltage, amperage, and travel speed. By outlining these critical factors, a WPS ensures that the welding is done consistently and meets the necessary quality standards. This structured guidance helps welders understand how to correctly perform the weld and ensures compliance with industry standards and safety regulations.

While materials used in welding, inspection criteria, and testing methods are important aspects of the overall welding process, they do not specifically define how to carry out the welding operation itself, which is the primary focus of a WPS.