Welding procedure qualification record (WPQR) for welds fabricated at proximity

Abstract Maintaining the minimum allowable distance between proximity welds has always been considered a subject of debate among design engineers, welding engineers/inspectors and fabricators/engineering contractors. The scattered nature guidelines available in codes standards for maintaining poses significant challenge procedure inspection criteria development process. This is especially critical complex welded joints on submerged sections offshore structures, compact layouts/branched connections topside piping components, structural (depending complexity). manuscript presents findings an experimental study that was performed by fabricating two girth at S355 steel tubular section with diameter 219.1 mm thickness 8.18 mm. Proximity were fabricated three different distances their weld toes, 5, 10, 15 mm, respectively, using procedures. Welding qualification record (WPQR) performed, all prescribed mechanical tests recorded as per NORSOK M-101, fabrication code. Although results from test met specified values defined code, research revealed noticeable difference Charpy hardness region adjacent welds. Considerable changes final microstructure morphology observed due to varying thermal cycles. These observations can form basis future joints, structures during replacement/repair procedures layouts.